WATCH: Lion at Manila Zoo having a ‘seizure’

https://www.facebook.com/100000157434073/posts/2339120236103201/

In a disturbing video earlier uploaded on Facebook, a lion at the Manila Zoo could be seen having a “seizure.”

In the video uploaded by a certain Mark Lee last Sunday, the lion was seen having fits of what appeared to be a seizure, lying on its side and thrashing its legs.

In his post, Lee claimed that the Asiatic lion identified as “Raffy,” was having a seizure and was “probably suffering from canine distemper issue.”

“Please help and investigate Manila Zoo. Thank you,” he added.

Lee told INQUIRER.net on Tuesday that the lion started shaking then suddenly fell on the ground. He took the video on 3 p.m. last Sunday.

A certain Leo Trinidad Almelor, who claimed to be a Manila Zoo volunteer, has responded to the video, saying that a zoo veterinarian has already been informed and that the zoo always has a veterinarian on standby.

Almelor also advised everyone to refrain from giving their diagnoses on cases like this as it is “very misleading and could cause uproars.”

“Good day Mr. Mark Lee. I am a volunteer in Manila zoo. I would like to thank you for the attention that you have given to Raffy; we already informed the zoo veterinarian. Although for future reference, there is always a veterinarian in the zoo. For medical emergencies such as this, please let the staff know immediately,” the volunteer said.

“We would also like to request to avoid diagnosing cases such as this. It is very misleading and could cause uproars. Thank you,” added Almeror.

Almelor said he belongs to Zoo Crew Philippines, a volunteer group composed mostly of veterinary medicine students and professionals, who are present at the Manila Zoo every Saturday. The group, he said, conducts enrichment activities for the animals, rehabilitation projects at the zoo, and visitor education.

Almelor told INQUIRER.net on Tuesday that the lion is currently on quarantine and being monitored. A series of laboratory tests will be conducted on the lion with the help of veterinarians, keepers, and volunteers.  /muf