When you go to the zoo and see a giraffe craning its neck or a polar bear diving into the water, you may not think about how much those animals weigh. But veterinarians know that an animal’s weight is a key indicator of its physical health. Regular weighing is vital for animals, especially endangered species, where every individual’s survival could contribute to the future of their kind.
However, weighing wild animals without being kicked, scratched, or bitten is often incredibly difficult. Let’s take a closer look at the process of weighing zoo animals.
Preparing for the Weighing Process
Zoos often use positive reinforcement training to help animals associate the weighing platform with something enjoyable. Treats, favorite toys, or verbal praise work wonders to encourage cooperation.
For instance, sea lions might get trained to sit still on a platform in exchange for their favorite fish snack, while lions may practice walking across a scale for meat. Elephants learn to place their feet on large platform scales in exchange for fruit.
Choosing the Right Scale Type
Zoo animals vary dramatically in size, from darting hummingbirds to massive rhinoceroses. This means that vets need to have a variety of scales available in order to weigh each animal correctly.
Scales for Large Animals
Heavy-duty scales, such as platform scales, are essential for large mammals, including elephants and giraffes. These scales are robust enough to handle extreme weights from 1,000 to over 6,000 pounds and often have reinforced steel decks for durability.
Scales for Small Animals
Tiny creatures such as meerkats require precise measurements. Vets weigh these small animals using precision scales that can measure down to the gram. The scales may include containers or trays that mimic the animal’s natural environment for added comfort.
Hanging Scales for Birds and Primates
Hanging scales are a great solution for animals that often climb or fly. Birds are often housed in specialized containers hung from the scale, while some primates may willingly sit in harnesses suspended from hooks. The weighing process is often quick and nonintrusive, allowing for frequent measurements.
The Importance of Regular Weighing
Weight fluctuations often indicate that an animal is suffering from an underlying health condition. The process of weighing zoo animals over time lets veterinarians identify potential problems and make adjustments to their care accordingly. Regular weighing also allows for monitoring growth and development in young animals.
Whether you’re dealing with livestock, exotic pets, or zoo animals, Prime USA Scales offers a wide range of weighing solutions designed for precision and reliability. From platform scales for heavyweights to precision scales for delicate creatures, our products meet the needs of various industries—including zoos and veterinary practices. If you’re looking for the industry’s best veterinary weighing scales, give us a call today.