Veterinary Medicine at the Detroit Zoo
At the Detroit Zoo, the Animal Health and Nutrition Department works hard to keep all of the animals healthy, from the smallest toad to the penguins, tigers and rhinos.  The Zoo has three veterinarians and three licensed veterinary technicians on staff.  Detroit Zoo veterinarians have had special training in the care of zoo animals, and also bring in outside specialists to help ensure the best possible care.

Preventing problems before they occur is a goal of the Detroit Zoo’s animal health program.  Zookeepers keep a close eye on all the animals and report changes in appetite, activity level or behavior.  The Zoo maintains a comprehensive preventive medical program including vaccines, routine deworming medications, and physical exams to prevent disease and detect problems early.  Animals in zoos often live much longer than their wild counterparts, so many older patients are provided extra care and treatment for arthritis or other problems that occur with aging.