About the Project
The design of the new Animal Health Center centered around a few defining goals aimed at providing a facility which supports the best in modern zoological veterinary care.
Create comfortable, safe and efficient workspace for the staff. The hospital was designed for ease of animal transfers from holding areas to the clinical core, making sure that there is ample space for crates, carts and tables used to move patients. The treatment room provides direct access into radiology and surgery room, minimizing the amount of movement required. Natural light floods the treatment room, which provides a comforting and calming effect for the staff in what is often a high stress environment.
Educate the public about modern zoological veterinary care. Included within the Animal Care Center is an education classroom as well as a window for daily guests to be able to view into the treatment room. This is in an important facet of modern facilities as they seek to inform their guests in the most transparent way possible about the amazing care that they provide all animals at the zoo.
Provide a facility which will be durable for the long term. All materials and systems used were evaluated with life-cycle cost in mind. High quality epoxy floors and wall coatings contribute to a durable and sterile environment with surfaces that prevent bacteria and mold growth. Powder-coated metal casework provides chemical resistance and is easy to sterilize.
Anchor the East end of the Zoo campus. The location of the new facility provided the opportunity to create a new public face for the Zoo as guests approach the secondary entry. As a highly visible location, the building is statement of the importance placed on providing the best in modern zoological medical care to all the animals at the zoo.
