AZA Certification!

Did you know that the International Exotic Animal Sanctuary is one of the few sanctuaries in the country that is certified by the AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums)?! As a "Related Facility," not a zoo or an aquarium, IEAS had to meet the strict standards of the AZA to be certified. This was a major goal of IEAS Director Richard Gilbreth when he first took the reigns in directing the Sanctuary. It took a lot of hard work, but he made it happen! The Sanctuary has been AZA certified for almost 10 years.

"Only the very best zoos and aquariums can meet tough Association of Zoos and Aquariums standards," said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. "The leadership and staff of the International Exotic Feline [Animal] Sanctuary are to be congratulated for the hard work and commitment that they put into the process to become certified."

To be certified as a related facility, the International Exotic Animal Sanctuary underwent a thorough investigation to ensure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, and safety. AZA requires zoos, aquariums, and related facilities to successfully complete this rigorous process in order to be members of the association and are required to resubmit to this process every five years.

"Not only does International Exotic Feline [Animal] Sanctuary meet or exceed AZA's high standards, but it provides every visitor with a chance to connect to global wildlife conservation," Maddy added. "Related facility members share the same strong commitment to animal care, professionalism, ethics, and conservation that AZA accredited institutions hold. In turn, they enrich the lives of their communities by developing significant wildlife conservation programs."

IEAS is so proud to be a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and will always continue to meet the high standards that the AZA sets. We look forward to our future with the AZA and other facilities that are both certified and accredited by the association!