Ontarians can now enter the Toronto Zoo at a discounted rate if they have a prescription from their doctor.
On Wednesday, the Toronto Zoo announced its new collaboration with PaRx, Canada’s national nature prescription program, to bring this initiative to life. In fact, it is the first zoo in Canada to join PaRx’s mission. The initiative aims to improve mental and physical health for Ontarians with a relaxing and stimulating trip to the facility.
Since the launch of PaRx in November 2020, over 11,000 healthcare providers have registered to prescribe time outside to connect with nature for their patients’ health.
“A growing body of research shows that connecting to nature has a wide variety of health benefits from improving symptoms of depression and ADHD to reducing risk of heart disease and stroke,” the zoo said in a media release on Wednesday.
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PaRx recommends that people aim for a green-target of at least two hours per week, 20-plus minutes each time.
“Visiting the 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,” Toronto Zoo CEO Dolf DeJong said in a statement.
“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,” he added.
The zoo says scientists are increasingly suggesting visiting zoos as a way to promote human wellbeing due to its combination of recreation, education and conservation suited for all ages.
Patients will get 50 per cent off their admission on the day of their visit as long as they present their PaRx prescription and matching identification at the entrance gate.
