"The bears mourn[ed] too." How Blizzard the polar bear was honoured after his death
One of the hardest things about caring for animals is the fact that, eventually, they pass on. And despite the efforts of the most dedicated caregivers and veterinarians, some conditions can't be healed.
Blizzard was a polar bear who first came to Winnipeg's Assiniboine Park Conservancy in 2014. He and his sister Star were found as hungry orphaned cubs, and from the start, Blizzard found a special place in the staff's hearts.
"He loved interacting with us," says animal care specialist Heather Penner. "He was this gentle giant."
Unfortunately, Blizzard suffered from an undiagnosed congenital heart defect that caused him to die young and suddenly. His passing was mourned by humans and bears alike.
"You know, it was... it was very painful," says Penner. "And the bears mourn too, right? They went into his bed where he had been and they stayed in there all night."
Penner and colleague Jackie Enberg went back up to the shores of Hudson Bay, where Blizzard was found, to spread his ashes.
"I'm so honoured that Assiniboine cares enough for Blizzard, and for us, to let us be a part of this really special event," says Enberg.
Also on episode 7 of Arctic Vets, head vet Dr. Chris Enright tends to a wild bald eagle who's possibly been electrocuted, and the team must decide whether harbour seal Camrose needs his eye removed.
Watch Arctic Vets, Fridays at 8:30 (9 NT) on CBC, or stream it on CBC Gem.