Lakina the Walrus Undergoes Eye Procedure

Lakina, a 7-year-old Pacific walrus at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, developed a serious ulcer in her right eye after weeks of keeping it closed despite pain medications. Suspecting a genetic link—her parents also suffered chronic eye conditions—Head Veterinarian Dr. Karen Wolf decided sedation was necessary for diagnosis and treatment, a complex process due to walrus physiology.

The zoo flew in Dr. James Bailey, a marine mammal anesthesia expert, and Dr. Carmen Colitz, a Veterinary ophthalmologist familiar with Lakina’s family. Under anesthesia, Dr. Colitz debrided the ulcer and performed conjunctival and amnion grafts to promote healing. Post-surgery, Lakina is on antibiotics and being closely monitored by Veterinary and animal care teams. The procedure required extensive planning, specialized equipment, and coordination across departments. Dr. Wolf praised the teamwork and expressed hope Lakina will recover fully, accept eye drops again, and eventually reopen the injured eye.