NZ Native Animals; Welfare v Quality of Life?

Cafe Scientifique occurs on the last Thursday of every month at Cafe Reka. It is a very casual gathering of people interested in hearing the latest in science. The speaker will only talk for 10-20 minutes and the floor is opened for questions. Very relaxed, always interesting!

The Wellington Zoo animal hospital receives 'injured' native species from the DoC, local rehabbers and the community. A major difficulty in the veterinary/scientific triage and prognosis process is in defining 'welfare' and 'quality of life'.

Apart from the immense difference in species, habitat and behaviours, we also contend with the human factor. What is totally acceptable for one person; is unacceptable for another. Cultural, educational and sociological differences have a huge impact on our perceived 'state of mind' of an animal.

• Is an objective assessment possible?

Katja Geschke studied veterinary science in Germany and has worked in the field throughout the world. Katja moved to New Zealand in 2003 to become the Veterinarian at Wellington Zoo and is now the manager of Conservation and Veterinary Science.

Katja lectures at Massey University on elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), marine mammal and zoo veterinary medicine. She is also the veterinary advisor for marine mammals, hoofstock and misc. species for the Australasian Regional Assoc. of Zoological Parks and Aquaria.

Discuss this and more with the star of television’s ‘The Zoo’:

Thursday 24 September
6.00pm – 7.30pm
Café Reka at TheNewDowse
Laings Road
Lower Hutt

Supported by: GNS Science, Royal Society of New Zealand Wellington Branch,
Café Reka, TheNewDowse, Capital E and Hutt City Council

Event listed by huttcity

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