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The American Humane Conservation program is the first certification program solely devoted to helping verify the welfare, well-being and demonstrably humane treatment of animals living in zoos, aquariums and conservation centers across the globe. The program enforces rigorous, science-based and comprehensive criteria for animal welfare, developed by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee comprised of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, animal behavior and animal ethics.
“We commend Oceanogràfic for voluntarily opening their doors and undergoing exhaustive examinations including in-depth comprehensive assessments of actual animal welfare conditions and practices for some 15,000 animals and more than 600 species, and intensive on-site assessments by a team of independent auditors,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, American Humane president and CEO. “As a result of meeting the many outcomes-based welfare requirements involved by the program, this zoological facility is joining a select group of leading institutions around the world in qualifying for this certification.”
The American Humane Conservation program’s extensive criteria exhaustively verify the many dimensions of animal welfare and well-being, with areas of evaluation including: excellent health and housing; positive social interactions within groups of animals, as well as between animals and handlers; safe and stimulating environments, with concern for factors such as appropriate lighting, sound levels, air quality, and thermoregulation; and, evidence of thorough preparation and protocols established to prevent and manage medical or operational emergencies. For added rigor, Oceanogràfic’s compliance with the American Humane Conservation standards was verified through an independent audit.
Among other creatures, Oceanogràfic cares for penguins, sharks, jellyfish, beluga whales, crocodiles, dolphins, sea lions, and species of fish from around the world.
You can read more about the American Humane Conservation program here: http://humaneconservation.org/