When an electrical fire broke out at ZooWorld in Florida, killing seven lemurs, the team at Animal Care Center of Panama City Beach answered the call for help with the rescued animals. For over 30 years, they’ve partnered with ZooWorld to provide care for their animals, from sloths and kangaroos to lions and giraffes.

Dramatic video shows deputies desperately trying to save animals during the fire at ZooWorld

Thanks to the swift response of first responders, one lemur and two binturongs were rushed to their clinic for emergency care. Led by Dr. Matt LeBleu, the team worked tirelessly to treat the animals for smoke inhalation and minor burns.

"I’ve seen them at the Zoo as healthy, happy, and curious animals; being transported directly from a fire to our hospital made the extent of their compromise immediately clear,” Veterinary Technician Jenefier Adams shared.

The two binturongs, Baloo and Mulan, were treated for minimal smoke inhalation and medically cleared the same day. Uri, short for Uranus, a young black-and-white ruffed lemur, faced a longer road to recovery. She spent three days in the ICU on oxygen therapy, being closely monitored and treated for burns to her face and hands.

Uri will need ongoing care for the burns on her face and hands

Fortunately, later that week, Uri was cleared to return home to ZooWorld.

For the team at Animal Care Center, the experience was a reflection of something they carry into work every single day.

"What motivates us is simple: every patient matters," said Dr. Amber Deese. "We don't just go above and beyond for one animal — we do it for all of them, no matter the species, size, or circumstances. Each life deserves compassion, respect, and the very best care we can give."

The Animal Care Center team treating Uri