Designed for animal care professionals in zoos and sanctuaries, this virtual course bridges the gap between scientific research and practical welfare. Participants will learn to identify behavioral indicators of animal emotions, using these insights to design enrichment and routines that support wellbeing. By translating theory into everyday care, the program empowers teams to improve animal thrive-rates and confidently communicate welfare science to colleagues and the public through a flexible, evidence-based curriculum.
Description
Explore the fascinating science of animal emotions and learn how these insights can inform everyday welfare decisions. This course combines behavioral research, cognitive science, and practical observation techniques to help staff recognize and respond to the emotional states of the animals in their care.
Who it’s for:
Animal care staff, educators, interns, and managers in zoos, sanctuaries, shelters, and aquariums.
Key Takeaways:
- Overview of the latest research on animal emotions across species
- Behavioral indicators of positive and negative emotional states
- Linking emotional understanding to welfare improvements and enrichment design
- Strategies to create environments and routines that support emotional wellbeing
- How to communicate welfare and emotional insights to colleagues, management, and the public
When, Where & How:
Duration: Flexible, multi-part series. Self-paced, but with scheduled office hours and Q&A with the instructor.
Frequency: One-time or recurring; schedule based on organizational needs
Format: Virtual
Pricing:
- Individual and group rates available
- Discounts for multiple enrollments or group registrations
Why this matters:
Understanding animal emotions isn’t just theory—it improves welfare, strengthens staff confidence, and ensures the animals in your care thrive. By the end of this course, participants will be able to apply science directly to everyday care, enrichment design, and communication within the organization.
Optional Add-on:
Hands-on observation exercises using live or video-recorded animals to practice identifying emotional cues and recording data that informs care decisions.
Earn Your Certification
Participants who complete all course components—including lessons, practice exercises, and the final applied assessment—receive an Animal Wellbeing Solutions Certificate of Completion.
This certificate is professionally endorsed by Animal Wellbeing Solutions, verifying that the participant has demonstrated competence in the skills taught in the course (e.g., behavioral observation, welfare assessment, emotional indicators, etc.).
How It Works
- Complete the course modules (video lessons, readings, or workshops).
- Submit the required assignments or assessments—usually a short observation exercise or applied project.
- Receive instructor feedback confirming successful completion.
- Download your personalized AWS-endorsed certificate directly from the course portal or receive it via email.
What You Can Do With It
- Add it to your resume or CV under Certifications or Professional Development
- Upload it to LinkedIn and other professional profiles
- Present it to your organization or supervisor as evidence of training
- Use it to support applications for internships, promotions, or advanced responsibilities
Why It Matters
An AWS-endorsed certificate signals that the participant has been trained through a science-based, welfare-focused, and industry-relevant program. It demonstrates initiative, applied skills, and a commitment to high-quality animal care—making it meaningful for hiring managers, graduate programs, and professional development evaluations.
