Utah's Hogle Zoo’s Post

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is celebrating educators and first responders in October with free zoo and BooLights admission! Educator Discount | October 1-15, 2024 Educators (including employees, aids, admins, and out-of-state educators from preschool through college) with a valid school ID or proof of employment will receive free zoo admission and BooLights between October 1-15, 2024, and up to 50% off admission for two of their guests. Discount only available at the ticket window. First Responder Discount | October 16-31, 2024 First responders (including firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, emergency medical members, search and rescue, or other individuals (including an employee of a legally organized and recognized volunteer organization) with valid ID or proof of employment will receive free zoo admission and BooLights between October 16-31, 2024, and up to 50% off admission for two of their guests. Discount only available at the ticket window. October discounts are made possible through your support of the Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP)! More details: https://lnkd.in/gyYTh9DP

❄️🐾 Storm warning: snow in September! Guests can now visit snow leopard cubs Pavlova (female) and Bhutan (male) in Asian Highlands. Following three veterinary exams and time behind the scenes to bond with each other and their care team, guests are now able to sneak a peek at Babs’ #snowballs ✨   As they settle into their new habitat, please note the cubs have access to indoor spaces and may choose to be inside. Learn more about Pavlova and Bhutan at https://lnkd.in/gFdxqRHt

Meet Juniper, a gray fox who found a home at Hogle Zoo in 2023 after being abandoned as a young kit in New Mexico. Nicknamed “Junie” by her care teams, Juniper was born with congenital hydrocephalus – a condition that causes a buildup of fluid around her brain – and has lost most of her eyesight as a result.   Due to this condition, Juniper requires high levels of care from her animal care team, veterinarians, and Hogle Zoo’s health partners. 🩺 Juniper receives regular anti-inflammatory medicines and her care team closely monitors her appetite, weight, and watches for any neurological signs. Juniper stays active and curious despite the challenges, enjoying enrichment activities and a specially adapted training program designed to help her thrive.   🧡 Training Juniper requires patience and dedication, and we are lucky to have a team of keepers deeply committed to enhancing the quality of life for this sweet, smart, and determined fox.   To learn more about Juniper, visit https://lnkd.in/gegrfUDN and see her alongside habitat mates Willow and Peppercorn at Wild Utah! . . . MedVet | University of Utah Health | University of Utah Radiology and Imaging Sciences

Babs’ snowballs had their first checkup last week! ❄️🐾 🩺 Hogle Zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams were joined by an ophthalmologist from MedVet to conduct an 8-week checkup that allowed us to evaluate the two cubs’ overall health. The zoo’s veterinary team assessed their body condition and administered necessary vaccinations. Dr. Jaycie Riesberg, an ophthalmologist from MedVet performed detailed eye exams on both cubs. Our animal care team also weighed the cubs, with one cub weighing 4.6 lbs and the other 4.2 lbs.   After the checkup, the cubs were given a “straw bath,” covered in substrate with scents familiar to their mom to help them reunite calmly and comfortably. Both cubs did very well and are in great health! The cubs will continue to stay behind-the-scenes with mom, and guests can expect to visit them this fall. Thanks to our amazing teams and partners for their commitment to care, and congratulations to the amazing first-time mom Babs on a clean bill of health for both her cubs! To read more about the cubs’ 8-week checkup, visit https://lnkd.in/g_pg4xDZ

Southern white rhinos George (48) and Princess (45) have been a part of Hogle Zoo and our visitors’ memories for decades, since 1977 and 1980, respectively. 🦏 As geriatric members of their species, they receive specialized care to support their advanced age. 🩺 Caring for our Geriatric Giants: George has rapidly advancing cancer in his rear left leg. While no long-term treatments are available, he voluntarily takes daily pain medicines in fruit for comfort and mobility. On July 1, 2024, our team observed Princess displaying abnormal behaviors that appeared to be neurologic in nature. We believe she had a seizure. As she's been recovering from this event, we consulted with rhino experts, adjusted her daily medicine plan, and modified the management of both rhinos in case this happens again.  Like human seniors, rhinos experience weight changes, muscle atrophy, and a general slowing down. To support their comfort, George and Princess receive special bedding and flooring, receive supplements, medication, and treatment, and enjoy pre-cut hay and high-fiber greens due to their worn-down teeth. Thanks to a trusting relationship with their care team, George and Princess voluntarily participate in their care. From blood draws (did you know we draw blood from small veins on their ears?👂) to laser therapy for arthritis, their wellbeing is our top priority. You might not see George and Princess during your visit as they may be indoors resting, receiving treatments, or being pampered by their keepers. 🧡While we don’t know how much time we have with them, we are proud to have them under our care and will ensure they are happy and comfortable for as long as possible.️ To read more about George and Princess’ care, visit https://lnkd.in/gDHfda3q