PHILADELPHIA, PA — Step into the wild and make a difference! The Philadelphia Zoo is inviting everyone to support their living treasures by participating in the much-anticipated Zoo-A-Thon. Scheduled for Friday, April 5, and Saturday, April 6, this special event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s an opportunity for the community to learn, engage, and play a vital role in the care of 1,900 unique animals.
Every Creature Counts: Your Donations Make A Difference
At the heart of the Philadelphia Zoo lies a commitment to providing individual care for each resident of the animal kingdom. As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited institution, the Philadelphia Zoo prioritizes animal care and well-being in everything they do. Be it nutrition, veterinary care, or behavioral enrichment, the team goes above and beyond to ensure the welfare of every animal.
Zoo-A-Thon serves as an open door for supporters to see the glorious workings of the animal care program. “We want our community to understand the full breadth of animal care at the Zoo. Every gift, regardless of size, helps us make a world of difference,” says Chief Development Officer Neil Batiancila. An exciting line-up of wildlife chats, feedings, and enrichment sessions have been arranged for the two-day fundraiser, allowing guests to see firsthand the impactful work of the Philadelphia Zoo.
Feeding Furry Friends: Nutrition at the Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo’s dedication to animal welfare starts at the dining table! The Zoo’s Nutrition Program Director meticulously designs a specialized diet for each animal, considering not just what they eat in the wild, but also how they eat. Their carefully crafted recipes of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals result in healthier animals with better digestion, healthier teeth, improved cognitive function, and increased activity levels. With close to 300 different types of food items served every day, the annual grocery bill exceeds half a million dollars!
Lifesavers In Scrubs: The Zoo’s Veterinary Team
The Philadelphia Zoo’s in-house veterinary team, consisting of three full-time veterinarians and veterinary technicians, is always ready. From vampire bats to the 2,000 lbs. white rhino Tony, every resident of the zoo receives preventative care, emergency aid, and everything in between. The Animal Hospital covers all grounds from examination and treatment areas to a dedicated nursery and specialized wards for different types of animals.
Playful Paws and Curious Claws: Animal Enrichment at the Zoo
Beyond nutrition and medical care, the Philadelphia Zoo also ensures healthy minds through its animal enrichment program. This program provides creative outlets for physical activity and mental exercise, allowing animals more choices on how they spend their time. Puzzle feeders, climbing structures, and training sessions with keepers are examples of the fun yet thought-provoking activities the animals partake in.
One for the Wild: How You Can Contribute
Join the Philadelphia Zoo’s commitment to providing exceptional animal care by participating in Zoo-A-Thon. Donation to this noble cause is possible through three methods – onsite using any Zoo-A-Thon QR Code, online at their website, or simply by texting “PhillyZoo” to 24365.
As a small token of the Philadelphia Zoo’s immense gratitude, every donation comes with special gifts. It ranges from a Zoo tote bag for a $50 donation, to a priceless animal photo for a $500 gift. Please note that these gifts are limited and will be delivered in 4-6 weeks.
Additionally, all onsite donors will receive a gift bag filled with coupons and one free attraction.
Let’s come together and roar out loud for our furry and feathery friends. Be a part of Zoo-A-Thon, because at Philadelphia Zoo, they believe in a world where every creature counts.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.