Our Vets in Action activities that took place during February half term are now over for this year - find out more about our upcoming events.
Enjoy a unique February half term family event at Whipsnade Zoo, where children can step into the role of a vet and discover how animals are cared for both at the Zoo and in the wild.
As part of a brilliant family day out at the UK’s biggest zoo, Vets in Action invites young animal lovers to explore the fascinating world of veterinary science through interactive, hands-on activities inspired by the real work of ZSL’s vets, vet nurses and zookeepers.
This free, drop-in event runs throughout February half term and combines learning, play and conservation stories in a fun and memorable way.
Become a Junior Vet this February Half Term
Young vets in training will begin their journey at a specially created zoo vet centre, where they’ll examine, diagnose and treat toy animals, gaining hands-on insight into the wide range of veterinary care carried out every day at the Zoo. There is a mixture of self led and free play activities in this area.
From here, junior vets can choose their next mission:
- Assist with a chimp heart health check, learning how ZSL monitors and protects primate health
- Go to the Rainforest Room which is themed as the Gir National Park to help with a lion health check, exploring how ZSL vets work in the field to protect endangered species
(All health checks are delivered using toy animals and models, making the experience engaging and age-appropriate.)
Discover How We Care for Animals at the Zoo and Beyond
Throughout the week, additional vet-themed talks, conservation case study and guided Vets in Action activities will take families deeper into the world of animal health and conservation. Learn how animal training supports veterinary care, why health monitoring is vital, and how science-led conservation helps protect wildlife around the globe.
In 2025, 87% of visitors said they learned more about ZSL’s conservation and animal care work, with many children inspired by the chance to role-play as real vets.
200th Anniversary Wildlife Health Heritage Tours
Help us celebrate ZSL's 200th anniversary
Join one of our special Wildlife Health and Veterinary Care Heritage Tours on Thursday 12, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February.
- Is the event included in my ticket price?
Yes, the event is free for all visitors.
- Do I need to book?
No. These are free drop-in sessions running throughout the day.
- Are there any real animals used in the event?
There are no real animals used in the event. Soft, plush toy animal are used in most activities for visitors to interact with. The under 7’s activity uses a very realistic, “breathing” animatronic lion
- How do I gain access to the relaxed opening?
Visitors who wish to access this should download a Penguin pass queue hopper here: Accessibility | Whipsnade Zoo
Ear defenders will also be available to borrow throughout the event.
- How long will I be in the event?
The event activities will last around 25 minutes. You will have time to access the self-led activities before moving on to a vet scenario.
- Can I re-enter the event during the day?
You may re-enter at any point during the day within the timed sessions advertised. Please note we are expecting a large amount of visitors so there may be a wait time before you can enter the event.
Gold members, Fellows and Patrons can enjoy priority access to the last Vets in Action session of the day starting at 3.30pm*, and can also collect a certificate upon completion during that session! Simply show your membership card to one of our team.
*running Saturday 14 - Saturday 21
Vets In Action activities are included in your Zoo admission ticket unless stated otherwise.
Plan your day with the Whipsnade Zoo app to get the most from your visit. Explore with step-by-step navigation to your favourite animals, habitats, eateries, and all the latest talk times so your won't miss a thing.
