As we reflect on February, the month of love, it is clear what we love most here at the Phoenix Zoo is our animals! With the support of our community, that love is put into action every day through exceptional care and thoughtfully designed habitats, in which the Zoo’s residents help educate guests to care for the natural world.
Every time an animal arrives at the Zoo, it carries a story. Some animals come to the Phoenix Zoo through conservation partnerships with zoos and aquariums, while others arrive with tales that are sometimes hard to hear. Whether an animal arrives after being confiscated from wildlife trafficking, after an injury or after being abandoned or orphaned, each is vulnerable and in need of expert care and a safe place to land.
When an animal is new to the Zoo, they must go through a period of quarantine to protect the health and safety of other animals at the Zoo. Alternatively, a breeding pair may need a quiet, protected space. In another case an animal may need to be held safely before moving to a new habitat or even to another accredited zoo. In moments like these, having flexible, dedicated space is not just helpful, it is essential.
To meet these needs, we are embarking on the construction of both the new Veterinary Medical Center, estimated for completion in Spring 2027, and the Doornbos Animal Rescue and Care Center (Doornbos ARCC). The Doornbos ARCC will feature two buildings with expansive indoor and outdoor spaces, designed as a flexible area to accommodate a variety of species and situations as needs arise. This space will strengthen our ability to provide consistent, high-quality care from the moment an animal arrives, ensuring we are prepared for both planned transitions and unexpected rescues.
The Doornbos ARCC will provide care beyond the animals of the Phoenix Zoo, it will serve as a rescue and stabilizing space for wildlife that has been trafficked and confiscated, injured, abandoned or orphaned. When authorities intervene in cases of wildlife trafficking, or when rescued animals have nowhere else to go, this Center will help ensure there is a place ready to receive them. This is made possible through the collective commitment of supporters who believe this work matters.
This project signifies more than new buildings, it represents a shared commitment that when animals are in crisis, expert care, proper quarantine and a safe environment will be immediately available.
Help us rescue animals in need. Help us elevate our animal care. Learn more about the Doornbos Animal Rescue and Care Center and how you can be part of ensuring that when an animal has nowhere else to turn, there is a place ready.
