Ruben has had a seizure, but he is recovering steadily, has a good appetite, and is receiving medication prescribed by Dr. Peter Caldwell. The picture above is of Ruben the next morning. Although we were aware there could be setbacks with his health, it was still worrying to see him like this, and we were grateful Peter could prescribe the medicine so quickly.

Ruben has been enjoying his large habitat, and his favored place is the den under the platform, where he snoozes in the cool space (a benefit of the earth and grass banks around two sides of the platform).

At 5:30pm, ADI’s Jan and Tim were with Ruben when we saw something was wrong. Fortunately, Jan had the 400m lens on her camera so they could see into the dark den and could see that he was having a seizure. They sent the video straight to Peter who immediately prescribed medication, which Karen and Lefaso organized.

The Resident Welfare Team drove into the habitat, using a pole out of the window to give Ruben some food with the medicines inside. He ate the food enthusiastically and was then monitored through the night. At 1:30am, he got up and drank some water – a huge relief to everyone. The medicine had worked.

Ruben’s appetite is good, but the seizure has left him weak and unsteady, although he is coming in and out of the den for food. We are now driving into the enclosure to give him his food and meds, dropped out through the window.

Peter has advised Ruben needs quiet and rest, so all driving and walking along the roads next to Ruben’s habitat has been stopped. A night-vision camera has been set up to monitor him.

This has been scary but as we all know, Ruben is a determined, strong spirit; he makes sure he gets up for his food and struggles back into his den. He is alert and watching everyone (see picture).

As we know, Peter has diagnosed Ruben with spondylitis, which compromises his spine and joints. The progress in his walking and balance since his arrival is the result of medications and exercise, building his muscles after a lifetime in tiny spaces. Peter advises that given his neurological and spinal issues, other health problems are to be expected. On the positive side, Peter sees no reason, with rest and treatment, that Ruben cannot be back on his feet again.

We know many people around the world care deeply about Ruben and the challenges he has faced, so please send him your love for a speedy recovery. We also know that Ruben will do everything he can to push through this. He is determined, a survivor who has already overcome so many challenges.

If you would like to send support for Ruben and the other animals at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, you can do so here.

We will update you as we have more news. Thank you for being on team Ruben.