Palo Alto Junior Museum Zoo Earns AZA Accreditation For the First Time

Accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums means we provide the highest standards for: 

• Animal Care: We provide the highest standards in husbandry, wellbeing, and veterinary care for our animals. 
• Education: We are committed to providing education about science and nature to all. 
• Conservation: We are teaching the next generation about conservation, and are in the planning stages of how our facility can have a larger impact in the region and beyond. 
• Safety & Community Trust: AZA Accreditation involves a rigorous review process ensuring safety and transparency. 

To earn AZA accreditation, zoos must go through a detailed application and an on-site inspection by a team of experts from across the country. Every part of the zoo is reviewed, from how animals are cared for, to how staff are trained, to the programs we provide for our community. After the inspection, the AZA Accreditation Commission carefully reviews the findings and meets with our leadership before making its decision. Accreditation is only awarded to organizations that meet the highest standards of animal care and wellbeing.

"Junior Museum & Zoo staff are experts at connecting young children to science, nature, and conservation, which is especially important in today's rapidly changing world. Joining AZA provides us an opportunity to amplify our work globally through the associations 251 member institutions." - John Aikin, Executive Director 

"AZA Accreditation is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication from our entire team. It's an affirmation of our commitment to the highest standards of animal wellbeing, conservation, and education. This achievement not only validates the incredible efforts of our staff but also strengthens our promise to the community to provide a place where children can learn and be inspired by science and nature." - Sean Ramsdell, Zoo Director