NORWALK, CT – A variety of plush toy animals await veterinarian care from youngsters in the “Stuffed Animal CARE-ium,” a special summer exhibit open from July 1 to Labor Day in The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk.
This fun and adorable exhibit will let young guests pretend to use the tools of real veterinarians to diagnose and treat plush-animal patients. Interactive displays will let children choose a plush animal and then weigh it, take its blood pressure, bind a wound or even take an x-ray.
Other displays give young guests the chance to prepare “foods” for their animal, look through a
microscope, and consider actual skeletons of the plush-animal species.
“The Stuffed Animal CARE-ium will be a great way to introduce to children the high level of care provided to the animals at The Maritime Aquarium,” said Exhibits Director Tom Frankie. “They may be inspired to become a veterinarian, marine biologist or doctor when they grow up. We also hope that, through the role playing in the exhibit, children will realize that there are exams common for both animals and humans, which may reduce any stress the next time they go to the doctor.”
The “Stuffed Animal CARE-ium” is best for ages 10 and under. Children must be accompanied in the exhibit by a parent or guardian.
Unfortunately, no matter the high level of medical care, the exhibit’s plush animals are not eligible for out-patient home treatment, and must remain in the “Stuffed Animal CARE-ium.” Children can bring their own plush animals into the exhibit, although certain “tests” will only work with toys provided by the Aquarium.
Both of The Maritime Aquarium’s special summer exhibits – “Stuffed Animal CARE-ium” and “The Albino Alligator” – will be free with Aquarium admission: $24.95 for adults; $22.95 for seniors 65+; and $17.95 for children 3-12. Kids under 3 and Maritime Aquarium members get in for free. Aquarium admission includes an IMAX®movie.
Learn more about exhibits, movies, summer-camp programs, and cruises onto Long Island Sound at www.maritimeaquarium.org.
