The Houston Zoo will host Roo at the Zoo on Nov. 8, a continuing education and networking event for Houston-area veterinary professionals. Roo, a staffing and careers platform for vets, technicians and animal hospitals, is organizing the event. It offers free continuing education and connects professionals with hiring opportunities.
Charlotte Weir, Roo's vice president of partnerships, said cat ownership has increased over the past several years. She said cats can be harder to treat than dogs. "Cats are masters at hiding illnesses," she said. Weir also said cats do not receive routine care as often as dogs.
The training will cover making anesthesia safer for cats with diseases and deciding when anesthesia is needed. Attendees will get hands-on practice with ultrasound technology, learn how to handle cats with less stress, and learn how to make hospital spaces more comfortable for cats. Experts will also give lectures.
Citing the American Pet Products Association, Weir said 43% of cat owners are men. She said the number of Gen Z cat owners who are men rose 27% year over year. Weir said the event is the first of its kind and that Houston was chosen because its veterinary community "shows up."