Dozens race to raise funds for zoo hospital
26 April 2016
Scores of nature and outdoor lovers braved the early morning chill on Sunday to take part in the April edition of Zoo Trot at the Johannesburg Zoo to raise funds for the animal hospital.
As the sunlight began to shed dappled rays through the trees at the Bandstand, walkers and runners waited eagerly for the start signal to either walk or run the 5km or 10km course.
Dr Kresen Pillay, Johannesburg Zoo’s Associate Veterinarian, said the money raised during the trot would be used to buy new and upgrade outdated or malfunctioning equipment.
“The equipment will enable us to provide our animals with world-class veterinary care and treatment, empowering us to become forerunners for conservation and zoological medicine. For us as veterinarians equipping our hospital with our wish list items and being able to provide those animals in our care with the best possible treatment will be a dream come true. Knowing that you are able to perform vital and routine procedures without having restrictions on equipment gives you a peace of mind,” said Dr Pillay.
He said the equipment needed included biochemistry and haematology machines, microscopes, rigid and flexible endoscope, portable ultrasound machine, pining and plating kits for orthopaedic surgery, digital radiographic imaging plates, ophthalmoscope and otoscope, dental machine, to mention a few. He said the equipment would not only provide improved diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases to the 400 species at the zoo but would also enable hospital staff to perform more complicated and specialised surgeries and contribute to research programmes focusing on conservation.
“Globally, zoos play a significant role in conservation, research and education. Breeding and exchange programmes have led to great strides in not only increasing the life expectancy of captive animals but also in the provision of rigorous scientific research and preservation of animals that find themselves endangered in the wild,” he added.
Participant Kelly van Tonder said she loved taking part in the monthly Zoo Trots.
“It’s my monthly timeout in the wide, open and green space of the zoo. This month’s one is especially exciting because we’re doing it to raise funds for the zoo and the animals that we have come to love and appreciate,” she said.
First-time participant Avril Motaung said the Zoo Trot was “unbelievable fun”.
“I completed the 5km course this morning and feel invigorated. Running or walking in this pristine space is really enjoyable and I can’t wait for the next one,” she said.
The next Zoo Trot takes place on May 15. For more information contact Ioanna on (011) 646I2000 ext 2242 or log onto www.jhbcityparks.com or www.jhbzoo.org.za