Ruth the elephant is doing much better.

Buttonwood Park Zoo Director Keith Lovett says it was touch and go for the pacyderm Friday and Saturday as she was suffering from gastrointestinal stasis.

Lovett tells WBSM News that changed Sunday morning when Ruth was finally able to pass much of the blockage in her digestive system. "When the blockage was finally broken, there was actually a trumpet let out by Ruth when the blockage finally passed," relayed Lovett. "She was literally so relieved that she trumpeted out loud. It was a very heartfelt moment."

The community came together during Ruth's illness, as Lovett says. "Some of the more endearing moments is when children have actually brought in "get well" cards for Ruth. There's been an outpouring of support and emotion particularly locally. The local community has been so supportive."

Lovett says a team of veterinarians continues to monitor Ruth for progress. An ultrasound will be performed to determine what may have caused the initial blockage, and Ruth will be on a restrictive diet for the time being.

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