The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has been named a 2026 NAVC Gives recipient and received a $10,000 award from the North American Veterinary Community. The recognition is for the zoo's veterinary and animal care efforts supporting 13 sloths that arrived in critical condition on April 24 from Sloth World.
After the sloths arrived, staff worked to stabilize them, create individualized care plans, monitor changes in behavior and health, and adjust treatment strategies. Five sloths did not survive despite intensive intervention and veterinary care. Each loss was followed by a diagnostic review involving necropsy and histopathology, and the findings helped guide care for the remaining sloths.
The zoo said the rehabilitation has required patience, innovation, and trust between the sloths and their keepers. NAVC Gives said the recognition was created to honor dedication to animal health and wellbeing and cited the team's clinical expertise, collaboration, innovation, and compassion.
Press release issued by Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens:
https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/central-florida-zoo-named-navc-gives-recipient-for-sloth-rehabilitation-efforts/
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