By Josie December 10th, 2023
This is the tale of Gus, a depressed polar bear, who became the first zoo animal to be prescribed Prozac for his mental health struggles.
Gus was born in 1985 at the Toledo Zoo and later moved to the Central Park Zoo in 1988.
Gus’ long-time companion, Ida, passed away in 2011. Ida’s passing left Gus visibly distressed, exacerbating his symptoms of depression.
To address his issues, the zoo hired an animal behavioral therapist and started an enrichment program that included new toys and challenges.
In 2013, his carers noted his severe loss of appetite and inability to eat. The ensuing surgery led to the discovery of an inoperable tumor.
Gus was euthanized at the age of 27, a lifespan that exceeded the average for captive polar bears.