Hands-on breeding soundness and general health evaluations will be performed using the sanctuary’s 11 elephants – male and female, African and Asian elephants. The workshop may also allow participants to monitor a pregnancy of a female elephant.

This unique course in ultrasound technology will be taught by world-renowned veterinarian Dr. Dennis Schmitt, DVM, PhD, from Southwest Missouri State University (SMSU) located in Springfield, Missouri. Dr. Schmitt is one of the pioneers in the field of adapting modern technology to better assess elephants for medical and reproductive procedures.

Indianapolis Zoo Veterinarian Jeff Proudfoot, DVM, wrote, "It exceeded all expectations and truly was one of the best workshops I’ve attended as a veterinarian. Dr. Schmitt is an outstanding individual and teacher. Scott and Heidi Riddle and their staff were wonderful hosts - patient with a bunch of rookie, wannabe elephant ultrasonographers, and willing to share their vast experience and knowledge of elephant husbandry.

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