Endangered painted dog whose litter made history at Florida zoo dies. ‘Bold personality’

A pack of painted dogs at a Florida zoo is mourning one of their sisters who died.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park announced the loss of 6-year-old Monet, who was part of the first litter of painted dog puppies born at the zoo.

She was known for her “bold personality” and was named after the famous French painter, the zoo said in a Nov. 5 news release.

Painted dogs, also known as African wild dogs, are listed as endangered and face threats in the wild such as hunting from humans, sometimes to protect livestock, as well as habitat fragmentation, according to the African Wildlife Foundation.

“Monet enjoyed learning new behaviors and cuddling with her two sisters,” zookeepers said.

All painted dogs have unique markings, and Monet could be identified by a crescent moon patch of fur on her front right leg.

She was also featured on National Geographic’s “Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa” documentary show.

Monet leaves behind her litter siblings born Oct. 1, 2018. The species is known for “strong bonds within their families,” making them skilled pack hunters.

The dog’s passing also affected the humans around her, from the animal care team to ZooTampa patrons.

“We have known these pups since they were itty bitty babies,” one visitor wrote on Facebook. “Our thoughts are with the Zoo team, these pups are truly special.”

Several people took to social media to say the painted dogs are their favorite animals at the zoo.

“I remember watching all the pups running around, so playful when we were introduced to them after their birth,” another Facebook user wrote. “They’re all a must see when we come to the zoo.”

Zookeepers didn’t share Monet’s cause of death. The dogs typically live 10 to 12 years, according to the African Wildlife Foundation.