The Great Bend City Council on Monday approved a three-year contract with Nels N. Lindberg, DVM, doing business as Animal Medical Center, to provide veterinary services to the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. Mayor Cody Schmidt then presented an award to Dr. Mike Malone, the retiring zoo veterinarian, thanking him for his years of service. 

Malone said he has been working at the zoo for 46 years.

Zoo Director Ashley Burdick said three-year contracts are typical but Malone’s last contract was for one year as he anticipated his retirement. Animal Medical Center is purchasing Malone’s clinic, Animal Care Hospital. 

Asked if the sale has taken place, Lindberg told the council it was contingent on landing the zoo contract.

The council approved a $1,800 monthly contract rate and $180 hourly care rate, with total services not to exceed $116,000.

Animal Medical Center plans to keep Dr. Jackie Corbett from Animal Care Hospital, who has also served as a veterinarian to the zoo for many years. She and Dr. Ty Brunswig will be the zoo vets.

The recommendation to the council noted, “Dr. Corbett and zoo staff have an extremely close working relationship and she has a thorough knowledge of our individual animals and their needs. Dr. Brunswig has assisted with procedures at the zoo and we feel comfortable with this working relationship. This is a highly specialized service, and though other veterinarians could likely handle the work, the relationships and trust with staff and animals cannot be easily replaced, nor the wealth of knowledge obtained over the years.”

Malone thanked the City Council for its support over the years.

“All good things have to come to an end, and after 46 years, it’s time to pass the baton,” Malone said. “This didn’t come without confidence that the people that are taking over are going to do a very good job for you.”