On the Mend and Making Progress

Jaguar Tesoro Resting and Recovering After Surgery

Houston Zoo is cheering on its 11-year-old male jaguar, Tesoro, as he begins his long road to recovery after sustaining a serious leg injury. Tesoro fractured his front right leg which required immediate veterinary attention and ultimately surgery. After a successful procedure in conjunction with board-certified veterinary surgeons at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Tesoro was moved behind the scenes where he will spend the next several months recovering. In the meantime, guests can see Tesoro’s energetic and fast-growing cub, Rojo, in his habitat in South America’s Pantanal with mom, Vida.

Tesoro’s injury was discovered when his animal care team noticed him limping and radiographs indicated he had fractured his elbow. It also showed he has arthritis and elbow dysplasia, conditions that are common in older cats like Tesoro. The Zoo’s expert team of veterinarians determined surgery was the option that would give Tesoro the best chance at a full recovery. During this critical time, Tesoro’s animal care team is taking precautions to help keep him calm and comfortable to ensure his well-being as he continues to heal.

Houston Zoo’s five incredible veterinarians, along with its veterinary technicians, clinic staff and animal keepers work together every day to ensure all animals receive world-class care. As Tesoro’s team remains cautiously optimistic, his recovery is not guaranteed. The team will continue to conduct routine checkups and observe his progress while providing him with the best quality of life.

Wild jaguars are primarily found in remote grassland regions of South and Central America. Guests can help save wild jaguars by visiting the Houston Zoo. A portion of each ticket and membership supports Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE): Jaguars, a program focused on saving jaguars in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize. The Zoo provides financial support to help fund local rangers who patrol the critical habitat, working to reduce illegal activities like poaching. The Zoo also serves on the steering committee to help guide and strengthen the program’s impact.