Contact: Jason Jacobs
323/644-4273

Zoo Vets to Converge for 2008 AAZV Annual Conference

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is pleased to host the 40th Annual Conference of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV), marking the first time the event has ever been held in Los Angeles. This year the conference is in conjunction with the Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV).

“We are especially proud to be hosting this year’s conference,” states John Lewis, Zoo Director. “We feel that the L.A. Zoo has much to offer and share with, as well as learn from, our professional colleagues from around the world. This is the perfect opportunity for our staff to showcase all the unique, groundbreaking medical procedures that we perform as well as the wonderful facility and staff that we work with.”

Held from October 11 to October 17, 2008, the seven-day conference is designed as an in-depth learning experience. Veterinarians from around the world will have access to the latest scientific information, and current diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.

Wet labs and workshops, covering a variety of topics, are available for attendees. According to Los Angeles Zoo’s Chief Veterinarian Dr. Curtis Eng, “they are designed to meet the needs of our attendees, addressing relevant topics and providing tutorials on the most up to date medicine.” Choices range from Avian Endoscopy, Chelonian Necropsy Technique, Zoo & Wildlife Pathology Workshop, Zoo Animal Welfare Round Table Discussion, Veterinary Thermography and Marine Species Rehabilitation. These wet labs and workshops take place on Sunday, October 12, 2008 and provide attendees with hands on experience in a one-on-one environment as well as valuable, up-to-date information on the latest techniques in zoo veterinary medicine.

“A large component of this conference is how training animals helps with their medical care. We have a tremendous number of examples that demonstrate how training helps veterinarians provide the best possible medical care for the animals. Whether it is a sea lion trained to have radiographs (x-rays) of his flipper, or the jaguar willing to accept an injection by hand, or the gorilla who allows us to do an exam of his mouth with just a verbal cue; these trained behaviors decrease stress and medical risk, provide psychological stimulation for the animals and help veterinarians when we need to work on them,” states Eng.

The rest of the week features a series of lectures, case reports, animal welfare discussions and posters focusing on various animal groups, such as birds, reptiles, hoof stock and primates. In addition, there will be reports on the Species Survival Program (SSP), special guest speakers and strategic planning focus groups. Those attending the event will earn 27 hours of continuing education credits certified by the American College of Zoological Medicine.

The media is welcome to come to the Zoo during the wet labs on Sunday, October 12 from 9:30 a.m. till 11 a.m. Media will be able to observe veterinarians as they learn and perform procedures. Veterinarians will be available for interviews. Please RSVP at (323) 644-4273 and check in at ticket booth number 11 at the Zoo’s main entrance. A representative from the Zoo’s Public Relations Division will escort you inside the Zoo.

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The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 2 to 12. The Zoo is open from 10am to 5pm daily. For general information, call 323/644-4200.