The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) announced Monday that the San Antonio Zoo was granted re-accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. The zoo, the third oldest in the organization, has held its accreditation consecutively since 1975, the inaugural year of its accreditation in the program. AZA president Dan Ashe visited San Antonio to present an accreditation plaque to San Antonio Zoo CEO and Executive Director Tim Morrow while surrounded by animals and members of the zoo staff from all departments.
To be accredited, the San Antonio Zoo underwent a thorough review to make certain it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards in categories that include animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be members of the association.
“Less than 10% of animal exhibitors registered with USDA have achieved AZA accreditation, so San Antonio Zoo truly ranks among the best of the best,” AZA President and CEO Dan Ashe said. “San Antonio Zoo has shown its commitment to conservation and protecting the natural world by meeting our accreditation standards in animal care and welfare, which are universally acknowledged as the gold standard within the zoological profession.”
The accreditation process included a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation, including animal care and welfare; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and more. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission.
“We are excited to once again earn accreditation by the AZA. Our entire zoo crew works tirelessly to provide the absolute best for the animals in our care, and this recognition continues to lend credibility to our ongoing efforts” said Tim Morrow, CEO and Executive Director of San Antonio Zoo. “Our re-accreditation provides third-party validation and continues to verify our excellent standards of welfare and care. We will continually strive to be a leader in providing excellence in animal care, education, and conservation.”
