Tragedy at Franklin Zoo

The NZVA would like to express its sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Helen Schofield, who passed away after a tragic accident at Franklin Zoo last week.

The following was written by Dr Andrew Worth, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences 

You will have heard about the terrible tragedy at Franklin Zoo. Helen Schofield was a veterinarian with huge compassion for animals. She was a Massey graduate and classmate. She took over the running of the private zoo in Auckland five years ago with the intention of running it as a sanctuary for neglected and abandoned pets, circus and zoo animals, where they could live out their lives in peace.

My wife and I visited Helen a month ago and she showed us around. I was struck by Helen’s dedication and commitment to the animals. I watched in awe as Mila, the ex-circus elephant, wallowed in mud and played in her enclosure. Helen was excited about the prospect of eventually rehabilitating her into a herd of African elephants overseas.

Far from being cavalier, Helen demonstrated an intense respect for the power and unpredictability of 'tamed' wild animals and was very cautious with Mila. She had installed a safe handling facility to allow her to inspect and treat Mila when needed and did daily training to gain her trust. Clearly a tragic accident has occurred.

Helen was a compassionate and gentle soul and the world is a poorer place without her.

Equally sad is that Mila has lost her protector and advocate and her future is uncertain.

Image source: 3News