Less than a dozen similarly
certified institutions worldwide
 |
| Rescued seal returned to the sea from Charlestown's Blue Shutters Beach (photo by Will Collette) |
After
a rigorous third-party audit based on science-based standards created by the
world’s leading animal scientists, animal behaviorists and animal ethicists,
Mystic Aquarium received the Humane Certified™ seal, confirming that “good
welfare and humane treatment of all individuals and species is provided at the
facility.”
The
American Humane Conservation certification program was created by American
Humane, the country's first national humane organization and the world's
largest certifier of animal wellbeing, overseeing the wellbeing of some 1
billion animals.
With
this honor, Mystic Aquarium joins an elite group of fewer than a dozen Humane
Certified institutions worldwide.
“The
recognition of our standards by such an esteemed organization and its animal
welfare professionals is not only meaningful but also validation of our
vocation,” added Larry Rivarde, Senior Vice President of Zoological
Operations at Mystic Aquarium.
“The
certification of Mystic Aquarium by the American Humane Conservation program
shows the institution’s commitment to meeting the highest standards of humane,
verifiable, and transparent animal care,” said American Humane President and
CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert.
“American
Humane is proud to recognize this world-class institution with its prestigious
Humane Certified seal of approval, demonstrating to the public Mystic
Aquarium’s leadership as a responsible, humane steward of the remarkable
animals living in its care.”
The
audit noted that many of the marine mammal areas excel in their planning each
day with the animals’ learning, social and husbandry goals in mind. Mystic
Aquarium employs specialized animal care professionals including veterinarians,
animal trainers, aquarists and herpetologists.
“This
certification is acknowledgement of the incredible passion shared by our team
of animal care professionals and their ongoing and unwavering dedication to the
animals in our care,” said Laurie Macha, Mystic Aquarium’s Curator of Marine
Mammals and Birds. “We are acutely aware that it is a privilege to work with,
care for and protect these animals.”
ABOUT
MYSTIC AQUARIUM
Mystic
Aquarium, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, is counted among the nation’s
leading aquariums with more than 300 species and an extensive collection of
marine mammals, including New England’s only belugas. Mystic Aquarium has been
a pioneer in offering guests a variety of up close encounters with a wide range
of marine animals. The mission of Mystic Aquarium is to inspire people to care
for and protect our ocean planet through conservation, education and research.
Mystic Aquarium receives major support from The Coca-Cola Company, Foxwoods
Resort Casino, Resorts World Sentosa and United Technologies Corporation. Learn
more at MysticAquarium.org.
ABOUT
AMERICAN HUMANE
Founded in 1877, American Humane is the country's first national humane organization. For more information about American Humane or the American Humane Certified™ program, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org.
