Experts gather for seminar on aging animal care

San Francisco Zoo & Gardens prides itself on expert and thoughtful care of its animals, including an increasing number of aging animals. More than 60 thought leaders in the domestic and international Zoo community, including professionals and students, gathered for a conference, Caring for Elderly Zoo Animals, at San Francisco Zoo & Gardens on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 6 & 7.

One of the results of modern animal care programs is that large numbers of animals live very long lives. The conference covered a variety of subjects from geriatric animal welfare assessments and exhibit modifications to ethical challenges and public perception about aging animals. Speakers from SF Zoo included Dr. Jason Watters, VP of Wellness & Animal Behavior, and Dr. Graham Crawford, Chief of Veterinary Services.

With many animals under human care living unprecedented long durations, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens has conducted behavioral studies on geriatric animal care. A published paper by Dr. Watters and colleagues featured SF Zoo’s unique approach to aging animal care in the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums journal.

“Our animal care philosophy emphasizes that we ensure the behavioral and physical wellness of all animals at all life stages,” said Dr. Jason Watters. “We are happy to be amongst our peers who are leaders in the field asking questions about how best to do this for our aged Zoo citizens and providing our findings to the rest of the zoo and aquarium community.”

Global climate change and the unknown future of endangered wildlife is further reason to better understand optimal care for animals young and old.

"With risks to animals' climates and habitats, we anticipate that zoos will need to shelter more animals over longer periods of time," said Tanya M. Peterson, President of San Francisco Zoo & Gardens.

The goal of the seminar was to discuss how to ensure positive animal welfare at every stage of life. Discussion also included thoughts on understanding the perspectives of those who care for aging animals. Content was geared for professional animal care staff from zoos and aquariums, animal welfare researchers, and veterinarians supporting graceful aging of animals. Partnering organizations include International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care, UC Davis Veterinary Medicine, Animal Concepts, and San Francisco Zoo & Gardens.

Notable events coming up at San Francisco Zoo & Gardens:

• Members’ Morning – SF Zoo Members enjoy the 100-acre park, conservation center, living classroom and Zoo for one hour before gates open to the general public on Saturday, December 10 from 9:00-10:00 am.
• ZooLights – See the Zoo in a whole new light! Take a walk under the bright lights while sipping hot chocolate, listening to carolers sing and visiting Santa Claus himself. Opening night is Friday, December 16 from 5:00-8:00 pm. ZooLights runs from December 16-30. *Closed December 24 & 25.

San Francisco Zoo & Gardens

Established in 1929, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens connects people to wildlife, inspires caring for nature and advances conservation action. An urban oasis, the Zoo & Gardens are home to more than 2,000 exotic, endangered and rescued animals representing more than 250 species as well as seven distinct gardens full of native and unusual plants. Located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean where the Great Highway meets Sloat Boulevard, the Zoo is open 365 days a year from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and is accessible by San Francisco MUNI "L" Taraval Line. Learn more about San Francisco Zoo & Gardens at www.sfzoo.org.