In honor of World Giraffe Day, we’re excited to share a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind study on giraffe hoof health.

In collaboration with Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine and Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe (the Giraffe Center) is contributing to the first-ever anatomical study of the lower limbs of giraffe, both in human care and in the wild.

Recently, staff members from the Giraffe Center traveled to Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine to study the hooves of giraffe that previously lived in human care. Giraffe Center staff also traveled to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation in Namibia to study hooves from wild giraffe.

The goal of this study is to better understand the internal structure of giraffe hooves and use that knowledge to improve lifelong hoof care for giraffe everywhere.

The first step in the study was capturing CT images of giraffe hooves from individuals in human care and the wild. These scans allow the teams to compare hoof structures across the two groups and identify key similarities and differences that could help improve future care. These scans, like the one shown in this post, provide a deeper look at internal giraffe hoof anatomy. Learn about the anatomy with this color-coded key in the image and below.

 Digital extensors

 Deep digital flexor

 Superficial digital flexor

 Heel bulbs

The second step in this study is to compare hoof measurements of giraffe in the wild and human care. The hope is to publish and share the study as a valuable resource for hoof care professionals everywhere. As more zoos prioritize preventive hoof care for giraffe, having data-driven foundational information could advance giraffe care around the world.