April 11-16, 2010
Toledo Zoo
Toledo, OH
Advances in Animal Keeping professional training course is a cooperative effort between the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK). AAZK professional members receive the AZA member tuition discount and registration priority.
Course Tuition
$850 for AZA Individual Members
$950 for Non-members
Course Registration
Download the Registration Form. Please note that you can use Adobe Acrobat Reader to type your responses directly into this form, print, and return by mail or fax. You may also print the form, write in your information and return by mail or fax. Each course has a registration form specific for that course.
Checks sent for course payment will be cashed immediately upon receipt as per standard business practices. Cashing your check does not indicate that you have been accepted into a course. You will receive an acceptance letter or wait list letter once acceptance decisions are made.
If you have any questions about your acceptance status, or for additional details please contact the AZA Professional Training Department or call (301) 562-0777.
Travel and Accommodations
Please wait until you are admitted into the course before making your reservations. You will receive a confirmation letter containing detailed information regarding your accommodations and transportation once you are admitted.
Curious about the costs associated with this course?
The Advances in Animal Keeping Cost and Logistics page will help you estimate the total cost of attending, including registration, hotel, and ground transportation.
Course Scholarships
The following scholarship opportunities are currently available to aquarium and zoo professionals for the Advances in Animal Keeping course.
An Additional Scholarship opportunity is provided by the The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK).
Course Objective
This course focuses on the very highest standards in animal husbandry, in combination with problem solving, team building and interpersonal skills, in order to engage, motivate and retain animal care professionals within our industry and to elevate the standards of animal care in AZA zoos and aquariums.
In-class discussion, exchange of ideas with animal care colleagues, small group activities, and question-and-answer sessions all enable students to analyze trends, to think critically and evaluate, to consider problems and propose solutions, to communicate effectively, and to learn their roles in their organization. The final project enables students to enhance their competency in working with a team of diverse individuals to accomplish a common goal in minimal time.
Target Audience
Currently employed animal care professionals. Curricula will be challenging for individuals new to the field of zoo keeping and is designed for those who have zoo animal care experience.
Course Topics
Animal Husbandry:
• Animal Behavior (training, enrichment, observational skills)
• Horticulture
• Handling & Restraint
• Regulations
• Reproduction, Pest Control
• Animal Shipments
• Water Quality
• Nutrition
• Geriatric Care
• Veterinary Overview
Problem-Solving
• Practical Exhibit Design
• Safety
• Crisis Management
• Nutrition
• Research Skills
Communication
• Team-building
• Conflict resolution
• Training
• Talking with management
• Working with volunteers
• Talking to the media
• The keeper’s role in education
Course Schedule
Download the course schedule (subject to change)
Course Instructors
Jacque Blessington
Kansas City Zoo
Dr. Chris Hanley
Toledo Zoo
Jay Hemdal
Toledo Zoo
Dr. Robert Davis
Zoological Society of Milwaukee
Ed Hansen
AAZK Executive Director
Beth Stark-Posta
Toledo Zoo
Denise Wagner
Phoenix Zoo
For additional details please contact the AZA Professional Training Department or call (301) 562-0777.