Animal Health & Wellness

SLOTH

On July 26, “Flan,” a three-year-old Linne’s two-toed sloth, received a wellness exam as part of Zoo Miami’s preventative health program. In addition to an overall assessment of body condition, including an eye and dental exam, he received vaccinations, X-rays, an ultrasound, and blood collection. The procedure was directed by Zoo Miami Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Rodney Schnellbacher, assisted by members of the Animal Health and Animal Science teams. Initial assessments indicate that Flan is in good health!

HARPY EAGLE

On August 26, Zoo Miami’s adult pair of harpy eagles received wellness exams. Working in coordination with the Animal Science Team, the Animal Health Team collected blood, administered a de-wormer as well as vaccines for the West Nile virus, examined the eyes, and did an overall assessment of the general body condition. The female also had her beak trimmed and filed. Both birds appeared to be in good condition and were quickly returned to their habitat where they are recovering well.

CLOUDED LEOPARD

On August 1, “Serai,” an 11-year-old female endangered clouded leopard, underwent a series of exams in an effort to diagnose what may be causing ongoing issues with vomiting. Exams included an ultrasound and an endoscopy where several biopsies were taken from the oral cavity, stomach, and small intestine. The Animal Health team was able to get a closer look at inflammatory tissue that is likely connected to the vomiting issues.

The endoscopy and ultrasound exams were directed by Dr. Luis Macho, a veterinary internal medicine specialist from Advanced Veterinary Care Service. The Zoo Miami Animal Health Team was led by Zoo Miami Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Gaby Flacke. Initial indications were that Serai’s vomiting issues may be the result of a food allergy. In addition to the endoscopy and ultrasound exams, Serai also had a series of x-rays done, blood collected, a COVID test and a general wellness exam that included eyes, ears and teeth. Other than the inflammatory tissue seen in her mouth and throat, she is in generally good condition.