The American Association of Zoo Veterinarians Co received a $151,932 Cooperative Agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025) effective September 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The award funds continuation of the Zoo and Aquarium All Hazards Partnership (ZAHP), a centralized hub for all-hazards preparedness and resiliency within the exotic animal exhibition industry. The organization will maintain ZAHP's role in advancing industry preparedness through monthly coordination with USDA species specialists, quarterly engagement with Veterinary Services, and participation in state and federal policy planning and working groups.
Key deliverables include publication of at least 12 annual program updates, development of five to eight best-practice work products addressing emergency response in zoological settings, completion of six updated e-learning modules with two supplemental materials, and production of a comprehensive framework for advancing zoonotic disease preparedness and prevention. The awardee will also provide contingency planning and emergency preparedness resources tailored to exotic and wildlife exhibitors, facilitate increased representation of the exotic animal industry in preparedness and policy decisions, and serve as an industry representative in stakeholder events and exercises. The award supports the zoological community, non-governmental organizations, and newly regulated exotic animal exhibitors as primary beneficiaries.