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- Likely cause of death for Gene Hackman’s dog revealed (abcnews.go.com)
Santa Fe, NM – A recent necropsy report reveals that Gene Hackman’s dog, Zinfandel (“Zinna”), likely died of dehydration and starvation. The Australian kelpie mix was found deceased in a crate near the body of Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, during a welfare check at their home on February 26th.
The report, released Thursday by Santa Fe Animal Control, indicated severe decomposition and ruled out infection, trauma, or poisoning as causes of death. Zinna’s stomach was nearly empty.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office also released information regarding Mrs. Arakawa’s final days.
On February 12th, she contacted a personalized medical service, Cloudberry Health, three times inquiring about an unspecified “esoteric treatment.” While not a patient, Cloudberry Health attempted to follow up with Mrs.
Arakawa but received no response.
Officials believe Mrs. Arakawa, 65, died around February 11th from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
Mr. Hackman, 95, likely passed away a week later, around February 18th, due to cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s.
His stomach was empty at the time of death, suggesting he hadn’t eaten recently. The couple’s two other dogs survived, apparently having access to a doggy door and the outdoors.
They are currently being cared for by a local kennel owner who is awaiting instructions regarding their future.
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- Likely cause of death for Gene Hackman’s dog revealed (abcnews.go.com)