Wildlife Health—It Matters to Our World
The health of wildlife—animals like sea otters, Catalina Island foxes and elephants—affects all of us. Today, 75 percent of emerging infectious human diseases are zoonotic (passed between animals and people), but many people are unaware of the ways wildlife affect them and their animals, including domestic pets. For more than 60 years, Morris Animal Foundation has funded health studies to improve the lives of animals—from pets and horses to wildlife. Join us in our quest for healthier animals today.
Drs. Patricia Olson and Wayne Jensen give a brief history of Morris Animal Foundation and the animal health studies that improve wildlife health and save species from extinction.
Dr. Mark Stetter, Director of Animal Health for Disney's Animal Programs, discusses the importance of wildlife health research and his role on Morris Animal Foundation's Wildlife Scientific Advisory Board.
Dr. Jonna Mazet, at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, talks about how wildlife, such as seals and sea otters, tug at our heartstrings and may offer an early warning system for identifying environmental changes.
Dr. Linda Munson, at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, shares information about the Santa Catalina Island fox, an endangered animal that suffers a high incidence of ear mite infections that lead to chronic inflammation and ear canal cancer.
Joan Embery explains the "One Health Concept" as it relates to the health of wildlife, people and pets. Viewers get a sneak peek at the Bell's horned frog, which is susceptible to environmental changes and toxins.
Yoda, a fennec fox, is one of many wildlife residents on Joan Embery's Pillsbury Ranch in California. Embery, an animal health advocate and former Foundation trustee, talks about the importance of wildlife health and introduces Yoda.
Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) urges pet owners not to implement any suggestions on animal health treatments without prior consultation with their licensed veterinarian. If your pet is experiencing health issues, contact your licensed veterinarian. MAF does not endorse any of the medical treatments described in these videos. The Foundation funds research to enhance medical options available to veterinary professionals and their patients.