Animal healthcare
Joyce Corrigan Animal Care Center
The Joyce Corrigan Animal Care Center, built in 1970, is open 365 days a year to serve the animals of the Phoenix Zoo. Here you’ll find radiology, ultrasound, surgery, laboratory, treatment, examination areas and housing for species ranging from tiny reptiles to tigers!
The vets and support staff at the Phoenix Zoo, one of the largest non-profit zoos in the United States, work hard every day to ensure the health of more than 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened or endangered species. This includes:
Creatures large and small receive expert medical care. Animals are examined routinely and given vaccinations to prevent disease.
Routine physical exams involve blood work assessments, full-body radiographs and a full physical examination including a dental check-up, ophthalmic and otic exam (eyes and ears). Vaccine boosters are also given, if needed.
When an animal is ill, vet staff are there to help by providing diagnostic testing, x-rays and surgery. We partner with outside specialists who visit from local veterinary practices whenever needed.
Meet the vet
Dr. Gary West
Dr. Gary West grew up in rural Iowa and graduated from Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. Dr. West has been a zoo veterinarian for 20 years and is a diplomate in the American College of Zoological Medicine (board certified in zoological medicine).
Dr. West is the chief editor of the 1st and 2nd editions of the book, “Zoo Animal and Wildlife Immobilization and Anesthesia.” Dr. West is currently the Executive Vice President of Animal Health and Living Collections at the Phoenix Zoo.
Pet Celebration and Memorial Program
Celebrate the life of a special animal friend
by helping us maintain the highest quality medical care for our Zoo patients.
When you choose to celebrate a pet’s life through the Pet Celebration & Memorial Program, your contribution allows the Joyce Corrigan Animal Care Center to continue to provide exceptional medical care to our Zoo patients.
This is a special opportunity to make a donation in memory of a beloved pet or to celebrate a new animal addition to your family. Upon your donation, you or your designated recipient receives a personalized certificate that announces your gift to the Zoo.
Animal Professionals Client Pet Celebration & Memorial Program
The Pet Celebration & Memorial Program is heavily supported by animal care professionals. Whether you’re assisting a family grieving the loss of a beloved friend, celebrating a client’s new family member or an animal’s healthy recovery, your donation demonstrates thoughtfulness and compassion for your clients.
*Corporate contributors will receive an annual thank you letter with tax receipt.
Special thanks to the animal professionals for participating in the Pet Celebration & Memorial Program!
that's zoo we are
The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., caring for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species.