Doctor Defends HisTreatment of Hippo
From Times Wire Reports
A doctor who kept a rare pygmy hippopotamus in his backyard for a decade before it was seized by authorities has defended his treatment of the animal.
Arthur Stehly, 63, said he always kept unusual animals while his 10 children were growing up.
He said the hippo, which had a skin condition that caused it to bleed, was well fed and happy. No charges were filed against Stehly.
The hippo was seized eight months ago, but Stehly had not discussed the incident until now.
The 500-pound hippo is being moved to a refuge in Texas.
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