Brain-damaged kangaroo woman’s plea: Let me keep pet
A woman suffering from depression faces a showdown with local officials attempting to confiscate her brain-damaged kangaroo because they say it could pose a public safety risk.
Oklahoma woman Christie Carr has been caring for the animal, called Irwin, since taking it home while she as working as a volunteer at a local animal santuary a year ago. “I can’t imagine a day living without him,” she says.
Irwin had jumped into fence, fracturing his neck and suffering brain damage which means he cannot walk or stand alone. He has gradually regained some mobility though and can hope three or four times with assistance.
Carr, who is unable to work, cares for the kangaroo fulltime, dressing him every day in a shirt, slacks and a tie. Irwin accompanies her on daily errands, riding in a car seat and eating with her in restaurants.
Her therapist has certified Irwin as a therapy pet, but local councillors in Broken Arrow will vote on 19 April whether Carr can keep the kangaroo. Local mayor Mike Lester has expressed concern that the kangaroo could pose a danger if he regains full mobility.
Adult kangaroos can grow more than two metres tall and weigh more than 90kgs. But a vet supporting Carr’s case said Irwin was unlikely to grow larger than 23kgs because of his disabilities.
Carr says she is ready to leave town rather than give up her beloved pet. “Irwin will not live if I have to give him up,” she said.