ZooTampa animals find relief through acupuncture
TAMPA, Fla. —
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is now incorporating veterinary acupuncture into treatment plans for animals with complex medical conditions.
The effort is led by staff veterinarian Dr. Alex Mason, who is certified in veterinary acupuncture.
While the practice is well known in human and pet medicine, ZooTampa is applying it to a wide range of wildlife species as a complementary therapy alongside traditional veterinary care.
One of the zoo’s standout success stories is Earl Grey, a 14-year-old black-bellied whistling duck that suddenly developed weakness in his right leg.
After three electroacupuncture treatments combined with fluids, vitamins and pain management, veterinarians observed improvements in his strength, coordination and ability to walk.
A roseate spoonbill chick recovering from a leg injury also regained normal limb function after receiving electroacupuncture in addition to medication and physical therapy.
The zoo is also treating Sloth, a rescued manatee with chronic nerve damage that affects one side of his face.
“At ZooTampa, each animal receives individualized care, and acupuncture gives us another way to support patients when traditional treatment options may be limited,” Mason said.