A Destination for Guests
Guests will now be able to see firsthand the incredible care our animals receive.
The Veterinary Center is a destination for Zoo visitors to discover firsthand how animal care is delivered. A covered observation deck, featuring tiered seating, allows up to 200 people to witness surgeries and other procedures as they occur. The treatment rooms feature cameras connected to monitors on the observation deck, providing guests with an even closer view of our top-notch animal care. Additional viewing windows look into the animal nursery rooms where guests can watch feedings and the care of the Zoo's newest additions.
Docents, keepers and veterinary technicians will join visitors on the observation deck each day to answer questions and explain the animal care guests are witnessing.
Adjacent to the main lobby, a large classroom, conference room and multi-functional spaces will attract a variety of community groups. These areas will also provide a location for education programs, revenue-generating special events and after-hours programming.
AN EFFICIENT SPACE FOR ANIMAL HEALTH
Public traffic is separated from back-of-house functions to enable staff to perform daily tasks and to ensure animal, staff and visitor safety. In addition to features designed to minimize animals' travel times and anxiety levels during transport, treatment and holding areas also incorporate daylighting to help preserve animals’ natural circadian rhythm throughout treatment.
The hospital features a push alley (permitting animals to walk themselves to the treatment room), induction stall (allowing anesthesia to be administered remotely) and electric lift, all of which promote animal and staff safety.
While designing the new facility, Zoo staff traveled to 13 different zoos, pulling together the best technology and design ideas to create this animal health center.
In addition to upgraded medical equipment, remote-controlled lighting, cameras and other modern features, the facility is LEED Silver certified for sustainable building design and
operations.