October 11, 2024
WHEN THE VETERINARIANS COME OUT TO PLAY
milwaukee county zoo • milwaukee, WI • 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Zoo School brings together the Wisconsin veterinary medical community to share animal experiences
and husbandry insights, scientific lectures, and the opportunity to explore all the zoo has to offer.
SCHEDULE
REGISTRATION
BREAKFAST
ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
CE LECTURES 1 & 2
LUNCH
CE LECTURE 3
ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
HAPPY HOUR
Watch for the full schedule,
costs, and registration in
late spring or early summer.
For even more detail, read the April Voice cover story, where WVMA President Dr. Meg Mueller introduces Zoo School and provides insight on this 2024 marquee event.
DETAILS
Meet a variety of species
and learn how the animals’
health and well-being are cared
for up close and personal
This event offers a full day of
5 scientific CE credits, including courses that align with many interests and professional development needs
See all the attractions across
the 190-acre site, home to over 2,300
animals and 314 species with a focus
on education and conservation
Make valuable connections
with peers from various clinics
and backgrounds, expand your
knowledge and have a blast
ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
Small Animal, Large Animal, and Equine CE tracks are bookended by two of these animal experiences.
Witness the impressive outdoor routine of African elephants as they engage in staff-led activities that maintain their health and well-being. Learn about the daily care routines and husbandry practices of these majestically massive creatures, as well as their social dynamics and natural behaviors. The training wall allows an up-close experience from the safety of a covered pavilion.
Observe the graceful movements of the tallest land animals in the world from the indoor giraffe enclosure. Listen as the zookeeper provides a deeper understanding of the everyday lives, adaptations, husbandry practices, and daily care routines of these gentle giants.
Learn about the fascinating worlds of Gentoo and Rockhopper Penguins. These flightless beauties native to South America’s coastal regions exhibit playful antics and endearing personalities. Hear how distinctive black and white plumage serves as camouflage from predators while hunting fish and squid, and how their wings serve as flippers to propel their streamlined bodies forward in the water.
Tending to the physical health and overall well-being of every animal in the zoo is a demanding but rewarding job for the Animal Health Center staff. With a focus on preventive medicine, this team cares for a collection of unique animals, each with individual health needs. This is your chance to get a private tour and in-depth look at the quarantine and treatment spaces where this specialized care is provided.
Get an inside look at a feeding and training session for lions or hyenas. Zoo staff share details about the power of these magnificent predators. Hear the vital role of training and how it complements natural instincts when providing daily care. View enrichment activities that give the big cats space and freedom to do what comes naturally.
Caring for marine mammals presents a whole new set of challenges than those of the zoo’s land-dwelling cohorts. The animal care staff will share interesting facts about the harbor seals, including behaviors, diet, and care routines, during a training session that offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of these intelligent creatures.
View the underwater world of the Amazon Basin from above the indoor environment tank. The zookeeper will discuss the intricacies of this rich ecosystem, sharing insights into the lives and husbandry practices of the various species. During a fish feed, learn about the behaviors, dietary preferences, and conservation efforts aimed to preserve biodiversity.
Swing into the world of these fascinating primates in a naturalized outdoor habitat while hearing about their intricate matriarchal social structures, unique behaviors, adaptability, and intelligence. Learn the importance of conservation efforts in place to protect the many endangered macaque species. And meet the staff on the overlook deck to observe a macaque enrichment opportunity.
Go behind the scenes of an immersive tank exhibit replicating the vibrant underwater world of Wisconsin’s lakes. Amidst the gently swaying aquatic vegetation and rocky outcrops is a diverse array of fish species. Learn about the importance of preserving these delicate habitats and the role each species plays in maintaining the health of Wisconsin waters.
Questions? Call 608-257-3665 or email wvma@wvma.org.