Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Please note: This course has been cancelled for 2008.

Advances in Animal Keeping in Zoos and Aquariums

Advances in Animal Keeping in Zoos and Aquariums is a cooperative effort between the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK). AAZK Professional Members receive the AZA member tuition discount and registration priority.

Types of credit available

None available at this time.

Please Note:
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 waitlist letter once acceptance decisions are made. If you have any questions about your acceptance status, please email us at .

Course Objective

Focuses on teaching 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 professional within our industry and to elevate the standards of animal care in AZA zoos and aquariums.

Target Audience

Currently employed animal care professionals. Curricula will be challenging for relatively new individuals to those who have more experience.

Course Topics

Respective roles of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Association of Zoo Keepers; Animal Behavior; Handling and Restraint Techniques; Horticulture Introduction; Regulations; Reproduction; Research Skills; Pest and Vermin Control and Sanitation; Animal Shipments; Conservation; Safety; Water Quality; Nutrition; Veterinary Overview; Geriatric Care; Crisis Management; Animal Welfare.

Sample List of Instructors
(subject to change for 2008)

Jacque Blessington
Kansas City Zoo

Dr. Robert Davis
Zoological Society of Milwaukee

Ed Hansen
AAZK Executive Director

Larry Killmar, Ph.D.
The Zoological Society of San Diego

Beth Stark
Toledo Zoo

Lisa Tryon
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

Denise Wagner
Phoenix Zoo

Roberta Wallace, DVM
Milwaukee County Zoo

Sample Course Schedule
(this will change for 2008)

Download the course schedule (in PDF).