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

An iconic reindeer named Star, a cherished symbol in Anchorage, Alaska, is currently battling severe health issues after someone tampered with his pen. The beloved 8-year-old reindeer, who has participated in parades and school field trips, developed pneumonia and rapid weight loss following a mysterious break-in at his enclosure, sparking concerns from his owner, Albert Whitehead. He has been bringing Star to the veterinarian every other day in hopes of discovering the cause of these troubling symptoms.

Star resides in a pen connected to Whitehead's home, where reindeer have been kept for over seven decades. The recent tampering incident, which occurred in early January, involved someone cutting a large hole in the pen’s fencing and spending several minutes inside. Shortly after this breach, Star began experiencing significant health issues. A few weeks later, Anchorage police found him wandering downtown, prompting an investigation that revealed evidence of previous tampering.

Reviewing security footage, Whitehead discovered a man using bolt cutters to access Star's pen and a nearby gate. The next night, the same individual was seen spraying a substance in Star's enclosure and reportedly striking the animal in the face. Although the man claimed he was trying to help, the intent behind his actions remains unclear, and Whitehead suspects that the sprays may have contributed to Star's declining health. Meanwhile, police have shared the video on social media hoping to identify the suspect, but lead to new information has yet to surface.

Star's condition has worsened, with potential stomach blockages and further complications from pneumonia, which may have resulted from inhaling regurgitated food. While surgery is an option to address any internal issues, the prognosis is concerning. The unique bond between Whitehead and Star is profound; Whitehead cites his daily life and motivation for activity as being closely tied to the reindeer, bringing an emotional weight to the situation.

Traditionally, reindeer have held a special place in Anchorage, a legacy initiated by pioneers in the 1950s. Whitehead took on the responsibility of caring for Star and his predecessors in 2002, continuing a lineage of reindeer health and companionship. The average lifespan for reindeer is around 15 years, with Star representing both a continuation of a historical connection and the personal bond shared between him and Whitehead.