Buddy, Singapore Zoo KidzWorld's 'sunshine' golden retriever, dies aged 9
Dog was diagnosed with two types of lymphoma over two years ago, and recent checkup showed cancer had spread
SINGAPORE — Singapore Zoo's children’s experience zone KidzWorld lost its resident "sunshine" - golden retriever Buddy - on Tuesday (7 November).
In a Facebook video on Wednesday (8 November), Mandai Wildlife Reserve said that the male pooch had died after being diagnosed with two types of lymphoma - a form of cancer - over two years ago. The Straits Times reported that he was nine years old.
In the video, Natalie Chan, a manager in the reserve’s animal behaviour and programmes, said that a recent checkup revealed masses in Buddy's pelvic region, indicating that the cancer had spread.
“This boy really fought the disease,” she said.
Even after the initial diagnosis, Buddy still enjoyed walks and buggy rides, and still wanted to attend presentations.
“He loved to make people happy. Anyone who meets him – even on a bad day, even on a sad day – they instantly light up. He’s just love and joy,” she said.
Fondly remembered for gentleness, zest for life
According to the Facebook post, the dog was surrounded by its keepers and friends in its final moments.
"He will always be fondly remembered for his gentle demeanour, zest for life (and food!) as well as how he loved to make people happy," Mandai Wildlife Reserve said in the Facebook video.
In the video, Chan also said that she woke up with some emptiness in her heart after its death, and that the team is sad over the loss. She also took the opportunity to thank her "family at Mandai" for their love and support in this "difficult moment".
"We still have the rest of the animals to take care of. Knowing that we have the support system of the Mandai family, we will get through this, and will continue to love the animals as much as they love us," she said.
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