AZVT

The Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians (AZVT) is dedicated to all aspects of quality veterinary technical care in the field of zoo animal medicine. We believe this is accomplished through the sharing of ideas, improving techniques and contributing to conservation.

Our commitment is to:

promote and improve professional standards among zoo technicians.

maintain a cooperative working relationship with other zoo professionals.

provide a forum for the presentation and exchange of information, challenges, and methodology encountered in the field of zoo veterinary technology through a quarterly newsletter, annual, and regional conferences.

encourage the recognition of the importance of the veterinary technician's role in zoo veterinary medicine, scientific study, and conservation.

educate the public, increasing the appreciation of the bond between human beings and all life on earth.

The Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians (AZVT) was formed when a group of 13 zoo veterinary technicians and medical technologists met to discuss the need for a forum of continuing education in their highly specialized field. AZVT began with 29 members in 1981 and has grown to almost 400 members from around the world.

National conferences, the first of which was held in Seattle in 1981 are held once yearly. In 2011, the 31st annual conference was held in Albuquerque, NM. This year the conference is in sunny Tampa, FL! And next year's will be in Seward, AK. Each convention results in the publishing of proceedings that are registered with the Library of Congress.

Regional conferences may be held yearly, as well. Conference topics range from infant rearing to laboratory techniques and involve both individual and institutional research. The goals of AZVT. include promoting continuing education, improving professional standards, and contributing to conservation.