Iconic pet reindeer in Alaska falls mysteriously ill after someone tampers in his pen

An iconic reindeer named Star, cherished by residents of Anchorage, Alaska, is currently battling serious health issues after someone tampered with his pen. Star, aged eight, has been a beloved figure in the community, participating in parades and school visits, but now faces pneumonia, digestive problems, and rapid weight loss. His owner, Albert Whitehead, has been taking him to the veterinarian every other day in hopes of uncovering the cause of his ailments. Veterinarian Sabrieta Holland expressed concern for Star's prognosis, stating it is "guarded."

The trouble began when an individual cut a large hole in Star's pen in early January, allowing brief access to the reindeer. Shortly after this incident, Star exhibited signs of distress, including stomach issues and significant weight loss. Concern intensified when Anchorage police found Star wandering downtown and returned him home. Security footage revealed the fence had been tampered with using bolt cutters, leading to Star's escape and subsequent distress.

The situation escalated when a masked man sprayed an unknown substance in Star's pen, directly hitting the reindeer in the face. Whitehead confronted the man, who bizarrely claimed he was "trying to help Star." Whitehead remains skeptical of the individual's intentions and believes the actions, albeit not maliciously intended, have harmed Star significantly.

Star's worsening pneumonia may be connected to inhaling regurgitated stomach contents, and there are concerns about possible blockages resulting from him consuming harmful objects while he was loose. Surgery remains a potential but risky option, typically predicting poor outcomes even for healthy deer. The bond between Whitehead and Star is profound, with Whitehead’s daily life significantly centered around caring for the reindeer.

Anchorage’s reindeer tradition dates back to the 1950s, initiated by pioneers Oro and Ivan Stewart. Star has become part of a lineage that has seen various incarnations over the decades, with some Stars thriving for many years, while others have not been as fortunate. The current Star's fate remains uncertain, leaving the community rallying for his recovery as they reflect on his impact over the years.