Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Program Animals

Program animals are an important and powerful educational tool that provides a variety of benefits to zoo and aquarium educators seeking to convey cognitive and affective messages about conservation and wildlife.

Program animal: non-human animals that are used outside their normal exhibit of holding areas and/or are intended to have regular, physical contact with the public within their normal exhibits

The use of program animal imposes responsibilities for the welfare of the animals, the safety of the animal handlers and the public, and accountability for the take-home messages received by the audience.

The following information will help you understand the rationale for using program animals and provides guidance in developing a program animal policy and procedures.

Program Animal Policy
Approved by the AZA Board of Directors in 2003.
Program Animal Position Statement
The Conservation Education Committee's literature review and rationale for using program animals.
Recommendations for Developing an Institutional Program Animal Policy
A step-by-step guide to developing a program animal policy.
Recommendations For Reptiles and Amphibians Used in Outreach Programs (in PDF)
Developed by the Reptile and Amphibian Taxon Advisory Groups in 2003. Includes a suggested species list.
Animal Demonstration Policies and Animal Handling Procedures (Members Only)
You'll find examples of policies and handbooks contributed by AZA institutions in the Resource Center.