Dr. Sosa-Higareda is an assistant professor in the zoological medicine service.
Tell us about your background.
I was born and raised in Mexico City. I obtained my veterinary degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico, followed by specialized training in zoological and wildlife medicine. Then I completed an avian internship at The Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota, a small animal rotating internship at a private practice in New York City, and a residency in zoological companion animal medicine at UC Davis.
I spent last year conducting clinical research on bearded dragons and axolotls as a post-doctoral research fellow at UC Davis.
How did you become interested in zoological medicine?
Since I was a kid, I have been fascinated by all the species. Through volunteer work at zoos during vet school I developed a passion for the field. I became intrigued by the huge differences between species and how, despite these differences, the medicine we practice is one: we just have to learn how to adapt our domestic species knowledge to our zoo/wild species.
Tell us about one of your favorite cases.
There are many, but one that always comes to mind is an 80-year-old desert tortoise that had a huge bladder stone. The tortoise had been in the family for generations. Despite all odds, we took him to surgery. He took 24 hours to recover from anesthesia, but he made it!
What are your special interests?
During my residency I developed a special interest in research. I enjoy looking into treatment and diagnostic alternatives to improve the way we take care of our zoo med species, which will be the main focus of my position at the University of Illinois. I also enjoy teaching and sharing zoo med knowledge with the new generation of veterinarians.
Outside of the clinic, I enjoy traveling the world and seeing new places. I also enjoy music, live concerts, theater, and movies.
