Zoological Medicine Service
The Zoological Medicine Service of the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine proudly supports the school’s overarching mission to advance the health of animals, people, and the environment by engaging in high quality clinical medicine, educational training activities, and research related in the field of zoological medicine. The Zoological Medicine Service is led by Dr. Jenessa Gjeltema, Dipl. ACZM.
Veterinary care
The service provides high quality veterinary care to zoological species. It accepts referral cases from zoological institutions and provides phone consultation services to veterinarians.
Education and training
DVM Curriculum
Coursework and clinical training related to the field of zoological medicine for veterinary students is coordinated by the Zoological Medicine Service. The service provides a combination of didactic lectures, laboratory experiences, supervised clinical rotations, supplemental learning opportunities, and career advising for veterinary students interested in pursuing careers related to zoological medicine. It also supports and advises related student-run organizations such as WAAM.
Zoological Medicine Training
Established in 1974 by Dr. Murray E. Fowler, the Zoological Medicine Residency Program through University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine was the first residency of its kind offered in the world. This highly competitive mentored 3-year post-doctoral clinical training program prepares veterinarians for careers in the field and ACZM specialty board certification. The program emphasizes clinical approaches for non-domesticated zoological species and wildlife under human care, such as those in zoological collections, conservation programs, or wildlife rehabilitation settings.
Continuing Education and Collaboration
The service supports and engages in continuing educational opportunities and collaborations related to zoological species for veterinarians and veterinary technicians.
Research and publications
The Zoological Medicine Service works to advance the health of animals, people, ecosystems, and the environment by actively engaging in research projects, collaborations, and publications that enhance our collective understanding and knowledge related to the field of zoological medicine and conservation.