UTICA — Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) recently donated medical equipment to the Utica Zoo with the aim of advancing the level of care provided to the zoo’s diverse animal collection, the zoo announced.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams, MVHS donated an array of equipment to help enhance the health and wellbeing of the zoo’s animals.

“The Utica Zoo is an amazing local asset, and I am so glad that we were able to donate this medical equipment for their use caring for animals,” MVHS President and CEO Darlene Stromstad said in a Utica Zoo news release. “I’m always pleased when we can find new uses for equipment we no longer need, especially when it’s contributing to a local business. I look forward to our continued partnership with the zoo.”

Donated equipment included a portable treatment light and head lamp designed for use during surgical procedures and exams. An isolette incubator to replace the zoo’s current incubator will be instrumental in caring for infant animals in crisis or requiring additional warmth.

The contributed otoscope and ophthalmoscope will be used in the treatment room for routine exams and diagnostic purposes, playing a role in the early detection and treatment of health issues.

“The continuation of quality animal healthcare and wellbeing at the Utica Zoo is a goal shared at all levels in our community, and MVHS has demonstrated their commitment to helping us meet this goal,” Andria Heath, Utica Zoo executive director, said. “Our appreciation to the MVHS leadership and team is immense, and we look forward to a long and fruitful partnership.”

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Utica Zoo is home to about 200 exotic and domestic animals and attracts nearly 80,000 visitors annually.