Mesker Park Zoo to Euthanize Donna the Hippo Today [Video]

This is so sad.  Mesker Park Zoo announced yesterday that "with heavy heart" they have to euthanize Donna the Hippo today.  At 60-plus years-of-age, Donna is the oldest hippopotamus living in captivity.  But, over the last few months, her quality of life has declined siginificantly and Mesker officials were forced to make a painful decision.  Today, Wednesday, August 1st, 2012, Donna will go to sleep for the last time.  But she leaves behind generations of adults and children who marveled in wonder at her playfulness and spirit.  In case you never got to see Donna for yourself, here's some video captured by some folks who became instant fans when they got to meet her.

Rest in peace, Donna.  You've earned it.