The Zoo Miami Animal Hospital is a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the rigorous standards of the AZA, AAZV, FWC, and the Florida Building Code while incorporating best practices in sustainability. The hospital supports the unique healthcare needs of the zoo’s more than 3,500 animals through a comprehensive clinical program that includes radiology and surgical suites, treatment and exam rooms, pharmacy, laboratory, ICU, and post-operative recovery.
Tailored for a wide range of species, the design features secure holding areas for carnivores and primates, as well as specialized environmental zoning and room-specific pressurization to support recovery, infection control, and the precise temperature and humidity requirements of reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Predator holding is separated from hoofstock and other prey species to reduce stress, while wide corridors, ceiling-mounted hoists, and track systems enable the safe and efficient movement of large animals throughout the facility.
Education and outreach are central to the project. Large observation windows allow visitors and veterinary students to view care in action, fostering a deeper understanding of animal health. Advanced laboratory spaces support Zoo Miami’s partnerships with veterinary teaching programs and Florida International University’s One Health initiative, providing hands-on clinical training and promoting interdisciplinary connections between animal and human health. The hospital also offers specialized lab equipment, dedicated workspaces, and year-round training and educational opportunities for students.
Sustainability Features: In alignment with Miami-Dade’s sustainable buildings program, the facility is targeting LEED Silver certification. Sustainable strategies include cool roofing to reduce heat island effects, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and hurricane-resilient construction to maintain consistent clinical operations during extreme weather events.
WDM Architects assisted with functional planning and design of the clinical spaces and provided detail design and documentation of the animal holding and post op recovery spaces. Stantec is the Architect of Record for this project.
