Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Meeting Your Institutional Mission With Program Animals

Please note: This course was held in October 27-November 1, 2008 in Wheeling, WV. This course will not be offered in 2009.

Course Credit

Not available at this time

Objective

To expose students to the range of opportunities for program animal use and provide students with the knowledge to effectively develop and manage formalized programs utilizing animal ambassadors. By focusing on a range of methods, rather than teaching a single "recommended" approach, students will be better prepared to develop an approach that fits their institution's mission and philosophy.

Target Audience

Program animal managers and coordinators; education department curators that utilize program animals; program animal and interpretive keepers; museum professionals

Course Topics

Philosophy of program animal use
Opportunities for program animal use
Developing an institutional program animal policy
Local, state and federal regulations and guidelines
Program animal collection planning
Education messaging, interpretation and evaluation
Human health and safety
Animal health and zoonotic diseases
Welfare
Animal enrichment and training
Staff training
Leadership and team building

Course Schedule (subject to change)

Download the course schedule (in PDF).

What your colleagues have been saying

“I am happy that I met so many people doing the same job I am. I’ve learned lots of practical ideas pertaining to animal presentations. I couldn’t be happier!!”

“I learned so many practical applications that I can take home to my institution and implement ASAP!”

Questions?