Fallen Zebra Finds Home at Noah's Ark Animal Shelter and Rescue

Cruising I-75 around Griffin and Locust Grove Georgia the last thing you expect to see along the side of the road is a Zebra, but that is exactly what the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) informed Noah's Ark Animal Rescue and Shelter in Locust Grove, Georgia. They needed help for the young zebra found grazing along the busy interstate.

Noah's Ark, approximately ten miles from where the injured Zebra was found, immediately dispatched staff to the scene. The injured Zebra was taken to Noah's Ark animal rescue facility and examined by Dr. Karen Thomas.

Law enforcement officers labeled the young zebra "evidence" because that is what he became when abandoned on I-75 after apparently falling from a truck or trailer. "Evidence" appears to have been an appropriate name for the young zebra. Noah's Ark affirms that the young, injured zebra was one more "evidence" of why their organization exists and "evidence" of the love and care afforded animals in need of shelter and rehabilitation.

The injured, abandoned zebra also showed "Evidence" of an extraordinary will to live. Doc T, as Noah's Ark's Doctor Karen Thomas is also known, found injuries more extensive than the resilient Zebra first led them to believe.

"Evidence" had over 50 wounds, 2 knocked-out teeth, and a deep gash across the pelvis. The extent of injuries was determined by Doc T to warrant extensive medical attention, beyond the capabilities of Noah's Ark animal shelter and rescue. Noah's Ark took immediate action and transported the seriously injured zebra to Auburn University.

Noah's Ark reports that Auburn University advised them that "Evidence's" pelvic was not only gashed, but crushed. The urethra and nerves to his reproductive system were also cut. It appeared to examiners at the University of Auburn that once the zebra fell from his transport, he was hit by another vehicle.

The fact that the zebra is alive is more "evidence" of the zebra's resilience. According to veterinarians who examined "Evidence," many animals of lesser spirit would have given in to the injuries and died.

Auburn University reported to Noah's Ark that the injuries were life threatening and would require extensive surgery. Noah's Ark was faced with a difficult and expensive proposition. Without surgery the zebra was certain to die. Surgery would cost at least $5,000, with additional expenses associated with recovery.

Noah's Ark had only one question, "Would the baby animal survive with surgery?" Auburn University's veterinarians were very optimistic that the young zebra would survive with surgery.

Without hesitation Noah's Ark gave the go-ahead for surgery. The animal rescue is completely dedicated to the animals which they take into their care.

As of Friday, Diane Smith, of Noah's Ark reported that they received an update from Auburn University. According to Smith, "Evidence is doing well following surgery on Wednesday. He does have a lengthy recovery ahead of him and it's not yet been determined when he will come home to Noah's Ark, his new 'forever home.' "

Noah's Ark has quietly asked for any donations to help pay the cost of Evidence's surgery. Considering the work of Noah's Ark animal rehabilitation work their request for donations should be met with heart and generosity. Not only does Noah's Ark take in animals in need of refuge and care, they also operate a Children's home. Donations will be used with responsibility and assist in the care of children and animals. Your donations will also be used to cover medical expenses for "Evidence" and other injured, rescued, and shelter animals. There is always a need for food and hay for other animals, as well.

Noah's Ark invites visitors to tour their rehabilitation facility for free, requesting donations only. The children's home and animal rescue and shelter has been in operation since 1978, demonstrating their long term commitment to their mission. The animal rescue has been the dream of a little girl since 1962.

I'm writing on behalf of Noah's Ark asking each individual who reads this article to donate any amount. All donations from the smallest to the largest help, and will be used with stewardship and diligence. Donations may be made at www.noahs-ark.org. If you would like for your gift to be used exclusively for Evidence's recovery please designate that when you make your donation.

This abandoned baby zebra needs help.

Noah's Ark deserves help for follow-up care and kudos for the work they do with children and animals in the Georgia community. Donations to Noah's Ark Children's home and animal rescue are not co-mingled. The Children's Care Home is licensed with the Department of Human Resources as a Child Caring Institution. The animal rehabilitation center is licensed with the DNR, U.S Department of Fish and Game, and U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Children are brought to Noah's Ark from the Department of Family and Children Services and the Department of Juvenile Justice.

Animals arrive at Noah's Ark via the DNR, zoos, and the public. Due to costs and the abundance of local animal shelters for dogs and cats, Noah's Ark is unable to accept dogs and cats for care.

I encourage every reader to have a heart and follow up with Noah's Ark. They are funded solely by donations. They have no trust or endowment. Noah's Ark is a registered non-profit organization.

If you are in the Georgia area, stop by and visit the animal rescue, rehabilitation center, and shelter. Enjoy a self guided tour with your family.

Noah's Ark: Bringing Children and Animals Together
Hours: Animal Habitat Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm
Welcome Center Office Hours
9:00 am to 4:00 pm Tuesday - Friday
Closed Sunday and Monday

For group tours or further information call 770-957-0888.