Exciting progress is underway on two transformational projects at the Phoenix Zoo: the Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) and the Doornbos Animal Rescue and Care Center (Doornbos ARCC). Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, these facilities are moving from vision to reality.
There is still important work ahead to fully fund these projects that will strengthen the Zoo’s ability to provide exceptional care for animals today and for generations to come.
Veterinary Medical Center Construction is Underway
Construction officially began on the Veterinary Medical Center in May 2025, marking a major milestone for one of the most ambitious animal care projects in the Zoo’s history. The foundation has been laid, walls are going up and the elevator shaft has been constructed. Guests can now begin to see the true scale of this project that is expected to be completed in early 2027.
The new facility will provide expanded medical and surgical space, advanced diagnostic technology and enhanced opportunities for veterinary education and conservation research. Designed to elevate wildlife medicine and animal wellbeing, the approximately 27,000-square-foot center will include:
- Advanced diagnostic equipment, including a CT scanner.
- Larger treatment and surgical spaces for animals of all sizes.
- Updated laboratory, examination and recovery areas.
- Research and collaborative workspaces.
- Viewing windows and educational displays for guests and students.
- Expanded teaching opportunities for veterinary students and professionals.
The VMC will also allow the Zoo to provide in-hospital care for larger species that cannot currently be treated within the existing facility. Beyond medical advancements, the new center will help inspire future conservationists and veterinarians by offering guests a behind-the-scenes look at the critical work involved in caring for wildlife.
Progress Continues on the Doornbos Animal Rescue and Care Center
Momentum is also building for the Doornbos Animal Rescue and Care Center, a modern 9,800-square-foot quarantine and holding facility expected to be completed in early 2027. With the foundation actively being laid, we look towards the future at what this facility will mean to the Phoenix Zoo and the animals in our care.
The Doornbos ARCC will more than double the Zoo’s current holding capacity and provide specialized spaces for:
- Quarantine and disease prevention.
- Observation and recovery.
- Transition support for new or relocated animals.
- Behavioral monitoring and relationship building with animal care staff.
- Temporary holding for conservation and breeding programs.
This facility will play a critical role in supporting animals during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. It will also allow the Zoo to take a bigger role in assisting wildlife partners, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Wildlife Trafficking Alliance, with urgent rescue and rehabilitation efforts involving injured, orphaned or trafficked animals.
Construction is well underway, and thanks to generous supporters, the finish line is now in sight. Every gift made today moves us closer to fully funding these vital facilities. Together, the Doornbos Animal Rescue and Care Center and Veterinary Medical Center will create a stronger, more comprehensive system of animal care at the Phoenix Zoo.
Thank You for Helping Us Come This Far
As construction progresses, we look forward to sharing additional milestones and behind-the-scenes updates. Thank you for being an essential part of this exciting journey, and for helping the Phoenix Zoo continue its mission to care for animals and inspire conservation action throughout our community and beyond.
Every step forward on these projects is possible because of compassionate supporters who believe in the future of wildlife conservation and animal care. Your generosity is helping create state-of-the-art spaces where animals can heal, thrive and receive the highest level of care possible.
We’ve made incredible progress, but we’re not there yet. Your continued support will help us cross the finish line and fully fund these projects so animals can receive exceptional care for years to come.
As construction progresses, we look forward to sharing additional milestones and behind-the-scenes updates with you. Thank you for being an essential part of this exciting journey, and for helping the Phoenix Zoo continue its mission to care for animals and inspire conservation action throughout our community and beyond.
