Edmonton Councillors Back Lucy the Elephant's Stay

Two Edmonton City counselors are now backing the decision to let 50-year-old Lucy, the

elephant stay at the Valley Zoo for the rest of her life.

After deep talks with animal welfare experts, the Zoo's care team, and even meeting Lucy

up close, they've dropped a joint statement saying it's the best call.

They point to her ongoing health issues, like her unusual breathing, and the huge stress

of moving a geriatric elephant that far.

Lucy has been an Edmonton since she was just two, getting yearly checkups from outside

pros who say she's at serious risk if shipped out now.

Protests have dogged the zoo for years, with groups like PETA suing back in 2012 over her

solo life in the cold climate and rankings calling.

It's the worst for elephants in North America by 2021.

Advocates pushed hard, flooding counsel with emails.

But the counselor's note, past tries to pair her with other elephants flopped, since she's

so bonded to her handlers.

Standards have changed a big time since the 1970s when she arrived, and everyone agrees

that wouldn't fly today.

No moves on the horizon, and they're pitching Lucy as a guide for how zoos should handle

space and social needs for big animals going forward.

Smart pivot to focus on her golden years right where she thrives.

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