The opportunities for practical application of material during workshop sessions provides really valuable learning experiences!

Fantastic opportunity for frontline staff to get practical "hands-on" experience with real life skills such as darting and identifying hoof anatomy.

It's easy sometimes to feel like an army of one facing the challenges of animal care - conferences like these are an important reminder you're not alone, and that so many people have cool and interesting things to teach and share with you! Leaving with spirits high.

The 2025 ZAA Semi-Annual Meeting in Issaquah was an incredible experience! It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with passionate professionals, exchange innovative ideas, and bring valuable insights back to our zoo. The ZAA community is exceptionally welcoming, especially to new members, creating an environment that fosters meaningful collaboration. The Safety and Security meeting was particularly eye-opening, providing critical takeaways for enhancing operations, while the animal welfare discussions reinforced the ZAA’s dedication to excellence in care. This conference was both inspiring and informative, and I’m grateful to be part of such a forward-thinking organization.

Attending the 2025 ZAA Semi-Annual Meeting in Issaquah was an outstanding experience. It provided a fantastic platform to network with like-minded professionals and gain practical knowledge to enhance our zoo’s operations. The ZAA community is incredibly welcoming, making it easy for new members to feel included and engaged. The Bear Necessities Emergency Darting course was a standout session—well-organized, hands-on, and incredibly informative. The Safety and Security meeting also offered invaluable insights, and the animal welfare discussions highlighted the organization’s commitment to best practices in animal care. This event was both educational and inspiring, and I left feeling energized with new ideas and connections. I highly recommend it to anyone in the field!

Fantastic content that is relevant to my position. The workshop format provides the opportunity to apply learned skills directly to my home facility.

It was a great opportunity to meet some folks that I would not have had quality time with at a larger conference. The smaller groups in the workshops were a great opportunity to have more intimate conversations.

It was such a productive event with many opportunities for one-on-one interactions and deeper connections with colleagues. The interactive workshops are invaluable for professional development.