Akron Zoo's Groundbreaking New $12 Million Animal Hospital: A Game-Changer for Animal Care and Zoo Growth
The Akron Zoo is setting a new standard in animal care with the groundbreaking of a state-of-the-art animal hospitalthat will revolutionize how it provides medical care for its nearly 2,000 animals. This exciting development, which took place on April 11, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the zoo’s growth and its ongoing efforts to ensure the health and well-being of its animal residents.
With a $11.95 million investment, this new facility is poised to triple the capacity of the zoo’s current animal hospital, which, at just 4,000 square feet, has been struggling to keep up with the zoo’s growing population. As Doug Piekarz, President and CEO of the Akron Zoo, explained, the new hospital will provide cutting-edge care in a facility that meets the needs of the zoo’s increasingly diverse collection of animals. Located behind the Landon & Cynthia Knight Pride of Africa area, the 11,949 square-foot hospital will include specialized spaces for everything from birds to large carnivores, and advanced care options like a surgery suite and an intensive care unit.
A Major Milestone in the Zoo’s Growth
The Akron Zoo has experienced incredible growth over the past 30 years, expanding almost tenfold in terms of the animals it cares for and the services it provides. The addition of this new hospital reflects the zoo’s commitment to innovation and quality care as it continues to develop and evolve to meet the needs of its growing population.
Brittany Rizzo, the zoo’s Director of Animal Health, expressed her excitement for the new facility, noting that the hospital will allow the zoo to provide even more advanced care and ensure that animals get the best treatment possible. "This will allow us to have better facilities and provide even more advanced care," she said, signaling the start of a new chapter in the zoo’s history.
Community Support Fuels the Dream
This major project wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of the community, including the $2 million contribution from the state of Ohio. According to State Representative Bill Roemer, the state has donated $3.8 million to the Akron Zoo since 2018, showing a strong commitment to its growth and the importance of its role in the region. The project is also funded through a successful fundraising campaign, which has raised almost three-quarters of its goal, ensuring that the new hospital will serve as a cornerstone for the zoo’s future.
Pam Holtz, Akron Zoo’s Chief External Officer, also highlighted that this is just the beginning for the zoo. The $11.95 million animal hospital is part of a larger vision for the zoo, which includes plans for further expansion and continued improvements to infrastructure. This ambitious development is not only about enhancing animal care but also about ensuring that the zoo remains a top-tier destination for visitors while continuing to grow in its mission.
Cutting-Edge Care for Every Species
The new hospital is designed with the specific needs of different species in mind, offering dedicated spaces for various animals, including birds, hoof stock, primates, and large carnivores. The inclusion of an intensive care unit and specialized surgery suites is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to providing the highest standard of care for its residents, no matter the size or type of animal.
Beyond routine check-ups, the facility will allow the zoo to handle more complex cases, such as managing diseases, performing surgeries, and providing end-of-life care with dignity and respect. This facility will ensure that the zoo is prepared for any situation, and can continue to serve as a leader in animal welfare.
The Future of the Akron Zoo
As the ceremony concluded, Dr. Brittany Rizzo summed up the excitement felt by all involved: “We’re going to start seeing what we’ve been working on for years become a reality here. I cannot wait; I’m so excited.” This new hospital represents more than just a physical building — it symbolizes the zoo’s ongoing commitment to world-class animal careand its vision for the future. It’s a huge step forward for a zoo that’s dedicated to providing innovative care and an exceptional environment for its animals and the community it serves.
This $12 million project is a game-changer, not just for the Akron Zoo, but for the broader field of zoological care. It’s a shining example of how collaboration, community support, and forward-thinking planning can come together to build something extraordinary. And with the Akron Zoo’s continued growth on the horizon, there’s no doubt that this new hospital is just the beginning of even more exciting developments to come.
Stay tuned as the Akron Zoo sets the stage for a future filled with advancements in animal care, expanding its role as a community and educational resource while ensuring the health and well-being of its diverse animal population.
