Collaborative Cancer Care for African Penguin, Keni

At Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA), every animal receives expert, individualized care, no matter how complex their needs may be. Keni, a 16-year-old member of our Critically Endangered African penguin flock, has been receiving life-saving cancer treatment thanks to a powerful collaboration between DZCA and Colorado Animal Specialty & Emergency’s (CASE) passionate veterinarians. Her journey is a testament to the incredible dedication of these staff members and their unwavering commitment to animal wellbeing.

Keni’s Cancer Journey

In February 2025, animal care staff at Pinnacol African Penguin Point observed a mass on the upper portion of Keni’s beak. She was quickly scheduled for diagnostic imaging at our Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital, where a CT scan and biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of malignant melanoma in her nasal passage.

To determine the best path forward, our Veterinary Medicine team consulted with experts from other Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited institutions and veterinary specialists. Based on those conversations, our team decided to move forward with radiation therapy with the generous support of CASE.

Advanced Care Through Collaboration

Keni’s treatment plan includes radiation therapy and immunotherapy using a canine melanoma vaccine—an innovative approach tailored to her unique physiology and condition. On March 26, she was transported to CASE’s Boulder facility for her first round of radiation and the initial dose of her vaccine. She recovered quickly and was eating and behaving normally the very next day.

She returned to CASE for additional treatments on April 3, 9, and 17, ultimately completing a total of four radiation therapy sessions and receiving two doses of immunotherapy. Throughout it all, Keni has shown remarkable resilience and continues to do well under the careful observation of her animal care and veterinary teams.

“At CASE, we are honored to collaborate with the dedicated team at Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance to provide advanced radiation therapy and immunotherapy for Keni,” said Dr. Clarissa Freemyer, a Radiation Oncologist at CASE. “Our goal is to tailor treatment to her unique needs while prioritizing her comfort and quality of life. This partnership exemplifies the power of veterinary specialists working together to provide the best possible care for every patient, no matter how small or unique.”

A Promising Prognosis

Though Keni is still undergoing treatment, her prognosis is positive. The teams at DZCA and CASE are closely monitoring her progress and adapting her care to ensure she stays comfortable and continues to thrive.

DZCA Clinical Veterinary Dr. Dan Culter shared more about this animal care story:

“Keni’s treatment has been possible through teamwork and collaboration to make the best decision for her wellbeing. Our animal care staff first noticed the mass and have been instrumental in monitoring her well being so that we have Keni’s quality of life at the forefront. The veterinary teams, both at DZCA and at CASE, have created a treatment plan that addresses the unique challenges of penguin medicine while giving the best chance for overcoming this disease.”

Guests can visit Keni and the rest of our flock at Pinnacol African Penguin Point, sponsored by Pinnacol Assurance, where our commitment to conservation and care is on full display. This new habitat is designed to support the physical and emotional wellbeing of this Critically Endangered species, while also educating guests about their urgent need for conservation.

Saving Wildlife Together

Keni’s journey highlights the extraordinary level of veterinary expertise and compassion that defines the work of DZCA and CASE.

Her treatment is just one of the many ways we are Saving Wildlife Together—not just through field conservation, but through everyday care for the animals who call DZCA home.