Dear ZAA Members,
Happy Thanksgiving!
I’d like to start by acknowledging the technology issues we had with the addition of Basecamp as a member resource repository and animal exchange listing. Again, I apologize for any inconvenience and frustration this caused. A board subcommittee has been formed to reevaluate the technology platforms we have available to create a better experience for our members. In the meantime, we have made the following improvements: 1) from the website homepage you can now access the Member Page (which currently takes you to our Basecamp site where you will need to login using your membership user name) here you can find the animal exchange list (for those with access) and other ZAA resources; 2) we have disabled the ability to broadcast a posted message in the Basecamp All Members project message board to avoid unsolicited messages; and 3) also from the website homepage you can access the Member Compass (where you will need to login with your membership user name and password), here you can update your membership information and/or pay dues. We hope that these measures mitigate any further technological complications. Thank you for your patience.
Our focus is also on finalizing our Semi-annual Meeting and Professional Development Workshops (formerly known as Midyear Meeting) to be held Feb 11-14, 2025, in beautiful Issaquah, WA. We have confirmed workshops offered by a wide range of experts, including the following topics: anti-venom, hoof trimming, USFWS confiscation engagement, animal welfare 101, animal training, emergency darting, education programming, accreditation lead inspector training, animal encounter data collection, and government affairs. Additionally, we will have several committee meetings and other ways to engage and network with colleagues, so you will not want to miss this incredible opportunity! Registration begins December 1st, so watch our website for complete details.
Finally, I’m sure you have all seen the USFWS proposal to include giraffe as protected under the ESA. Please know that the board, Tom Albert, and I are preparing comments to submit on behalf of ZAA. As a part of this process, we are gathering information from our members to be included; however, I would encourage you to consider writing and submitting your own comments as well. Also, in connection with government affairs, I’d like to thank the government affairs committee members who have volunteered to help me gather information from our accredited facilities regarding their experience over the past year with USDA inspections. This information is crucial for us to continue to advocate for ALL ZAA members during our in-person meetings with the agency. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!
Best,
Kelly
Dr. Kelly George
Executive Director
(941) 621-2021 - Office
(941) 421-2413 - Mobile
