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Stuffed animal clinic offers checkups and ER visits

CINCINNATI, OH (June 6, 2025) – Join us at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden on Tuesday, June 10th from 9:00am–4:00pm for our second annual Stuffed Animal Clinic! The clinic is run by adult Zoo volunteers with special talents that include sewing, crafting, and talking to kids, with additional support from volunteers from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.

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“Whether it’s a sore paw or a fluff-up, our volunteer “vets” will make sure your cuddly critters are feeling paw-some!” said Brittany Garera-Stapleton, volunteer program manager at the Cincinnati Zoo. “As your plush friends receive care and repair, kids and families will also learn how we care for zoo animals and local wildlife.”

Patients can be brought in for basic checkups or a visit to the Emergency Room. Beloved stuffed animals suffering from holes, rips, or tears, can be treated by extra-skilled volunteers ready to restore them. Each patient will receive a chart at check-in and proceed to the appropriate care station for their examinations.  Volunteers are outfitted with stethoscopes, flashlights, tongue depressors, needle and thread, and other repair supplies. Post exam patients will receive a wellness certificate.

Members can attend the clinic for free but must make a reservation.  Non-members can purchase a ticket, that includes parking, when making a clinic reservation. This event is at the Zoo’s Clubhouse located near the Huntington Safari Train Station. Please use the back entrance of the Clubhouse near the Children’s Zoo.

Download the new mobile app featuring a GPS-enabled digital map to find the clinic. Turn on notifications to get updates on animal chats and special offers.

The Zoo opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. daily.  Members get Early Entry and are welcome to enter the Zoo at 9 a.m.