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Lagoon zookeeper injured by animal

Posted at 11:41 AM, Aug 21, 2013
and last updated 2013-08-21 13:43:32-04

FARMINGTON, Utah -- Lagoon amusement park is responding after one of its zookeepers was injured in an animal attack Sunday.

Lagoon officials said before the park opened on Sunday, a female zookeeper was working in an animal enclosure when she was attacked by an animal. They did not elaborate on the specific type of animal involved.

Lagoon officials said the woman sustained severe injuries to her leg. Paramedics rushed to the scene, and she was then transported to a Salt Lake City area hospital.

The zookeeper who was injured has worked at Lagoon for at least 20 years, and officials said she even helped raise the animal who injured her.

"The animal in this situation is known as being a playful and very gentle animal," said Lagoon spokesman Adam Leishman. "So it comes as quite a surprise, but a good reminder that these are wild animals."

Since the incident, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has stepped in, interviewing other zookeepers and reviewing some of Lagoon's policies.

According to Lagoon officials, OSHA wrapped up their investigation Tuesday night, saying Lagoon was not at fault would not be cited.

Lagoon officials said the zookeeper who was injured is recovering well, and she plans on coming back to work just as soon as she's feeling up to it.