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Tampa, FL – A sixth grade student watches closely to determine how birds of prey can survive in the Hillsborough River ecosystem. Another observes characteristics of a panther and bear, to learn how they fit into Florida’s landscape. It’s all part of the outdoor environmental education program in Hillsborough County, called Nature’s Classroom. Each day between 250 and 350 sixth graders come out to the learning laboratory, on 365 acres of land along the Hillsborough River.
Behind the scenes, however, it’s been a struggle to keep consistent care for the animals that help educate about 13,000 students each year. “We needed a proactive plan, so that they are scheduled for shots, check ups, diet consultation,” says Karen Johnson Folsom, on site coordinator for Nature’s Classroom. “The education foundation tried to get us funding, so that we could have a vet assigned to us, but that never came through.” So, Florida Veterinary Specialists, in Tampa, recently assumed full responsibility to provide care for the wildlife at no charge. “Nature’s Classroom is something that has historically been a very strong part of this community and is an exceptionally good program,” according to Dr. Neil Shaw, Medical Director at Florida Veterinary Specialists. “We are not only providing assistance, but will establish a precedent of care that has never been done before.” Prior to this venture, veterinarians from various practices took on the responsibility of caring for the animals, only when sick or injured.
Dr. Nicolas Maldonado of Florida Veterinary Specialists will visit Nature’s Classroom 2 to 3 times per month. He’ll establish a wellness program, including blood work, oral exams, checking for parasites, etc. Nature’s Classroom is home to reptiles, birds of prey, bears, panthers, foxes, an opossum, bobcat, alligator, snapping turtle, skunk and more! “We’re loving it,” according to Karen Johnson Folsom. “Now we know what to feed our red fox. It’s very specific care and financially it’s a huge burden off of Nature’s Classroom. We feel like we have consistency and the goals we made years ago, will be followed through.”
Florida Veterinary Specialists state-of-the-art facility is designed and equipped to provide emergency, specialty and critical care for pets. Specialty services include: dermatology, neurology, internal medicine, oncology, ophthalmology, radiology, surgery, acupuncture and more. The emergency service is accessible 24 hours a day when a regular veterinarian is not available. It’s located at 3000 Busch Lake Blvd. in Tampa. Check out www.fvs.com for more.
For more on Nature’s Classroom, check out www.naturesclassroom.net
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