A penguin has been fitted with a pair of custom shoes to help him walk despite a unique foot condition.
Lucas, a four-year-old African penguin lives in San Diego Zoo, but was diagnosed with bumblefoot, a particular kind of bacterial infection found in birds, rodents, and rabbits.
It can be fatal if left untreated and causes swelling in the footbad, hence why poor Lucas was finding it difficult to walk.
To help the penguin out, a special pair of orthopedic shows were made for him by on-profit Thera-Paw, who design custom products for animals with health problems.
They made of rubber and neoprene and are black to match the colour of his feet.
Senior veterinarian Dr. Beth Bicknese said: "I’ve known Lucas for a long time, so having the ability to provide him with a chance to live a normal life brings a smile to my face.
"The boots are cushioned and Velcroed in place, so they will help Lucas to fully participate in the colony and showcase behaviors that are more typical for a penguin—such as climbing the rocks, swimming, nesting and finding a suitable mate."
HIs health problems began more than 3 years ago, when he developed a spinal infection that left him with weak leg muscles.
The inability to properly stand upright on his toes meant Lucas was forced to rest on areas of his ankles that would not normally touch the ground.
Despite using pain medication, physical therapy and acupuncture treatments, his carers couldn't improve his health until the boots were made.
Since having them fitted, Lucas is walking normally and managed to find himself a new girlfriend.
Debbie Denton, senior wildlife care specialist at the San Diego Zoo, said: “Seeing him move about now gives us hope that he may be OK going forward, and able to live a full life.”
