Some employees' wages can be reduced without it affecting their happiness. You'll see a red thumbs down if you cut too much.
Select the bulldoze tool with only construction checked, and delete everything you can. You'll need to do this especially in later levels to not fall into debt.
Do not take a loan! Don't listen to the character when she recommends it, you can complete the scenario without borrowing.
When you finish building a habitat, don't forget to place donation boxes, bins, and educational facilities near them.
Check if the walls are tall enough and climb-proof, you'll loose a ton of money if an animal escapes.
Vet research is very important and essential to complete later levels.
Don't forget about guest needs - place one drink stall, one food stall, and a toilet at the beginning, you can add other facilities later.