Source: KVUE
Gracie, a 16-foot tall giraffe that escaped from Cedar Hollow Ranch near Leakey, Texas, has been safely returned after spending nearly two weeks roaming the rugged Texas Hill Country. The successful rescue was led by Dr. Pat O’Neil of Pedernales Veterinary Center, who described it as one of the most memorable wildlife operations of his 43-year career. Search efforts involving deputies, volunteers, helicopters, and drones located Gracie several days before the rescue.
On the day of the operation, veterinarians tranquilized the giraffe from a helicopter before ground crews safely restrained, awakened, and guided her into a specialized transport trailer. Despite her time in the wild, Gracie was found to be in good health with access to food and water. Dr. O’Neil credited the successful recovery to teamwork among veterinarians, aviation crews, local ranchers, and transport specialists, along with what he called “a lot of prayers and a lot of good luck.”