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Dr. Rob L. Coke, Director of Veterinary Medicine, San Antonio Zoo, was recently named a finalist for a prestigious national award.
Dr. Coke was nominated for the Hero Veterinarian Award 2021, presented annually by American Humane to recognize a veterinarian’s excellence in animal care.
“It is a great honor to be nominated, selected as a finalist and to show the nation what we are doing for the animals in our care here at the San Antonio Zoo,” said Dr. Coke in a press release. “I hope to inspire others to view zoos and the conservation work they do as critical to cultivating a future for all animals for generations to come.”
Dr. Coke has worked with the San Antonio Zoo since 2002 and has done a lot for its residents. His recent achievements include leading his team of 18 zookeepers through the COVID-19 pandemic, leading research and conservation efforts for Komodo dragons, and ensuring the animals at San Antonio Zoo are safe and sound during the devastating February freeze were warm. He is also a personal hero for the Komodo dragon Bubba at the San Antonio Zoo, who suffers from degenerative joint disease but is gradually improving after months of innovative new therapies.
“We are very proud of Dr. Rob and all of his accomplishments,” said Zoo President and CEO Tim Morrow in a statement. “He has been an integral part of the San Antonio Zoo for nearly two decades, and his knowledge and positive attitude have benefited not only our animals, but countless vets and zookeepers alike.”
The San Antonio Zoo invites the public to show their support for Dr. Show off Coke by voting once a day on the Hero Vet Awards website. The voting period ends on July 29th, then the votes will be counted and a winner will be determined. If selected as the winner, Coke will be honored at the American Humane Hero Dog Awards 2021 on the Hallmark Channel.
“Rob is a giant in zoo animal medicine and deserves this prestigious award,” added Morrow. “I’m asking our community to take a moment to vote and encourage their friends and family to do the same. Let’s bring home a ‘W’ for our local hero!”
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