A six-year-old Thai boy with terminal cancer fulfilled his final wish by meeting Moo Deng, the world-famous pygmy hippo at a zoo in eastern Thailand, before passing away.
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On June 2, the social media account managed by Moo Deng’s keepers, Khamoo and the team, announced the heartbreaking news of his death.
The boy, affectionately nicknamed Auto, had long dreamed of meeting Moo Deng in person at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, located in Chonburi province.
Moo Deng, an adorable pygmy hippo born in July last year, has a name that translates to “bouncy pork” in Thai, aptly reflecting her cute and playful character.
She rapidly gained international fame, with her social media accounts amassing over 2 million followers combined. Inspired by her charm, fans have created memes, and even food and make-up products. Long lines of eager visitors form outside her enclosure daily.
Auto’s medical team reportedly reached out to the zoo last year to arrange this special meeting with Moo Deng.