This archive report was first published on 23 August 2019.
On August 22, 2019, a viral photo of a weeping Rothschild giraffe with a huge eye tumor in Lake Nakuru National Park sparked widespread concern among Kenyans and international internet users.
Following the public outcry, Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) swung into action, tracing the ailing giraffe and sharing photos and videos of veterinary doctors treating the animal.
According to KWS, the giraffe had a bone tumor, which made it difficult to excise due to the extent of the growth and potential complications.
Despite the challenges, KWS administered palliative treatment, including antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, and vowed to closely monitor the giraffe's condition.
The ailing animal is one of the 609 endangered Rothschild giraffes in the country.