We’re excited to announce that Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has officially achieved certification for the treatment of its animals from American Humane’s global American Humane Conservation program. Passing a rigorous third-party audit, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium joins an elite group of only eight institutions worldwide to receive the certified seal of approval.

American Humane launched the American Humane Conservation program in June as the world’s first-ever certification devoted solely to verifying the humane treatment of animals living in zoos, aquariums, and conservation centers across the globe. The program enforces rigorous, evidence-based standards of comprehensive animal welfare, developed by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, animal behavior, animal ethics, and conservation.

The comprehensive standards consider 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, enriched 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 accuracy, compliance with the exacting American Humane Conservation standards is verified through independent, third-party audits.

We are thrilled that Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium passed the rigorous auditing required to earn American Humane Conservation certification. Now every visitor can experience the excitement and adventure of a trip to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium with the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing the animals there are living under high standards of verifiable humane care.