Michael and Vet. Med.

Michael Jackson was a worldly man, involved with every aspect of life on the planet.  It's no surprise, then, that he also had encounters with the world of veterinary medicine.

Remember Bubbles the chimp?  Michael loved animals and kept many exotics as pets (actually more like friends, according to those close to him).  He had elephants, giraffes, orangatuns, and flamingos at his Neverland Ranch and Dr. Martin DInnes, renowned veterinarian and UC Davis alum, helped Michael acquire the animals and provided care for them.

When Michael abandoned the ranch following his child molestation trial, Dr. Dinnes cared for the animals and finally had to sue Jackson for $91,000.00 in veterinary fees.  In interviews, he said his beef wasn't with Michael but with Jackson's financial managers.  He settled his lawsuit and was finally paid.

I bet Dr. Dinnes had many stories to tell about his years caring for the Jackson zoo.  I'd like to hear them, wouldn't you? (photo from mjsite.com)

--Laurel

Comments

[Dana]

I was shocked and saddened by the news of Michael Jackson's death. What a complicated life he had. I would imagine that one of the things he found appealing about animals is that they had no idea about his celebrity status. They offerend him companionship unconditionally. I'm glad to hear that his animals were (and are) being well cared for.

[Tammy]

I'm still shocked about Michael Jackson dying. He is such a part of pop culture. It makes me sad that kids now won't know him as well as my generation.

I have to wonder if Michael's love of animals was the unconditional return of love that you get from them. He had such a tumultuous life, and I would bet the animals brought him some peace.