Sam Rivera, DVM, MS
Senior Director of Animal Health, Zoo Atlanta

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Dr. Sam Rivera is a 1996 graduate of the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  He also obtained a Master’s degree in the department of pathobiology from the same institution.  Dr. Rivera was in a private practice with an emphasis on exotic pets for 10 years prior to becoming a full time veterinarian at Zoo Atlanta, a position he has held for the last 15 years.  He has traveled extensively and has participated in wildlife conservation projects in Mexico, Ecuador, Galapagos, Caribbean, China, and Africa. Dr. Rivera is an adjunct professor at the University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine.  He is a diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (avian specialty), the American College of Zoological Medicine, and the European College of Zoological Medicine (Zoo Health management).