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Pregnant elephant exercises at Australian zoo

By Daniel Uria
Thong Dee, a pregnant Asian Elephant at Taronga Western Plains Zoo lifts tires onto a lifted platform as part of a special exercise regimen. Zoo keepers have created an exercise and diet program to keep the expecting element healthy through the 22 month pregnancy period. 
 Photo courtesy of Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Thong Dee, a pregnant Asian Elephant at Taronga Western Plains Zoo lifts tires onto a lifted platform as part of a special exercise regimen. Zoo keepers have created an exercise and diet program to keep the expecting element healthy through the 22 month pregnancy period. Photo courtesy of Taronga Western Plains Zoo

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DUBBO, Australia, Aug. 18 (UPI) -- A pregnant elephant at an Australian zoo participated in a special exercise program to keep her healthy before delivery.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo shared video of Thong Dee the Asian Elephant exercising with a trainer in her pen.

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"Keepers have a special dietary and exercise program for her to ensure she maintains her health and mobility leading up to the birth," the zoo wrote.

According to a blog post, Thong Dee's exercises include stacking tires, stepping on to a raised area, stretching, raising legs into the air and lying down as seen in the video.

Keepers have also provided Thong Dee with a diet including higher protein hay, supplements and ample amounts of fruit, vegetables and tree branches to keep her healthy during the 22 month pregnancy period.

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