Accreditations

Created and backed by the most well-respected, iconic names in science, animal welfare, and the conservation field, Humane Conservation™ standards help ensure the welfare and humane treatment of the animals in human care at the world’s zoos, aquariums and conservation centers. Adding another level of rigor, the implementation of these comprehensive standards are verified by independent auditors.

The AMMPA is the international accrediting body for marine parks, aquariums, zoos and research facilities. Alliance-accredited institutions are the gold standard in marine mammal care. With an extensive body of knowledge and experience, animal experts at Alliance-accredited facilities dedicate their lives to the well-being of the animals in their care, and to the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals such as sea lions, dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Member institutions reach millions of guests each year, creating extraordinary connections to the natural world that inspire people to take action for our oceans. Accredited members of the Alliance meet or exceed rigorous Standards & Guidelines covering a dozen different areas such as animal husbandry, animal training, water and environmental quality, education, scientific research, and breeding.

IMATA’s Accreditation for Animal Trainer Development Programs was developed to recognize those facilities that have exceptional systems for training animal care givers in the science and art of animal training, while utilizing positive reinforcement. Inspectors review the trainer development program of an organization to insure appropriate educational opportunities are being provided, quantification of skills and advancement are employed, materials containing modern training techniques are available readily, and that management experience of senior staff is appropriate for an environment in which trainers can improve their craft as an effective animal trainer.