Improving mental health and physical wellness is the main goal of a recently launched prescription program.

The Toronto Zoo has partnered with PaRx, Canada’s national nature prescription program, allowing healthcare professionals to prescribe visits to the zoo for health benefits. This collaboration makes the Toronto Zoo the first zoo in Canada to participate in the program.

“Visiting the Zoo zoo isn’t only about seeing animals and learning about how you can support conservation, it’s also about getting outside at any time of year and exploring our 10km walking trails in a safe, beautiful site” says Dolf DeJong, CEO, Toronto Zoo. “Covid was hard on everyone, but it also served as a reminder of the importance of carving out time for mental health breaks, connecting with one another, and taking some time away from our devices to get in touch with the natural world and the animals that need our help.”

PaRx, launched by the BC Parks Foundation, encourages spending time in nature to improve health and well-being, gaining support from healthcare providers and organizations, including the Canadian Medical Association. The Toronto Zoo’s Zoo’s unique combination of recreation, education, and conservation aligns with the goal of promoting human well-being through nature.

The partnership between PaRx and the Toronto Zoo allows patients to enjoy discounted admission by presenting their prescription and matching ID at the zoo’s zoo’s entrance.

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