There have been multiple reports of animals, especially cats (big and small) getting Covid 19. You may remember 8 tigers at the Bronx Zoo got Covid 19 from their keeper. https://www.personalphysicianmd.com/viral-developments/ Here is the latest that the San Antonio Zoo is doing to keep it’s animals safe.
SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio Zoo is scheduled to receive its first shipment of a COVID-19 vaccine for animals and plans to administer the first doses in the coming weeks.
The first zoo animals to receive the vaccine will be the African lions, Sumatran tigers, white-cheeked gibbons, and Francois langur. The vaccine is uniquely made for animals and donated by the animal health company, Zoetis. Experimental use is being authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Texas state veterinarian. Although the zoo’s first vaccine recipients will be large cats and primates, more species are due to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
“We are looking to initially vaccinate those species that have been shown to contract COVID-19,” said Director of Veterinary Care San Antonio Zoo, Dr. Rob Coke. “Species such as our large and medium cat species, lesser apes, other primates, mongoose, monk, ferrets, and otters are all on our list to vaccinate. Others will be added to the list as vaccine availability and research progresses.”
The zoo’s veterinary staff expects delivery soon and is coordinating with animal care staff on specific dates when the vaccines will be given. The vaccine is similar but not identical to the same vaccine developed for humans and will require a booster three weeks after the first injection.
“We are very excited to be one of the initial zoos in the country to obtain and administer the Zoetis vaccine,” said President & C.E.O. San Antonio Zoo, Tim Morrow. “The safety of our animals, guests, and zoo crew is our top priority. Our veterinary and animal care teams have worked incredibly hard to protect and prevent our animals from contracting COVID-19 through increased disinfection, personal protective equipment and new guest procedures. Vaccinating our animals is one more important step.”
According to a Zoetis statement, “at least 75% of emerging infectious diseases have an animal origin, including COVID-19. Now more than ever before, we can all see the important connection between animal health and human health.”
The zoo is proud to work with Zoetis in this endeavor and will continue to monitor its animals throughout the vaccination process closely. Follow San Antonio Zoo’s web and social media presence for updates and more information.
Tim Morrow
President & CEO
