zoo

USDA has been working though cooperative agreements to encourage emergency planning and response capabilities in the captive wildlife community.  Engagement of zoological facilities in the community planning process is essential. 

Response to zoological facilities requires specialized equipment and expertise. Coordination is a key aspect to successful response and includes coordination among affected facilities, local jurisdictional authorities, peer facilities in surrounding communities (and even nationally), wildlife agencies and Federal agencies.

Conservation critical programs at zoos may involve threatened or endangered species and protection of such animals may be the highest animal priority at such facilities.  Animal Decantation training should be included in all zoological facilities.