The Kaliningrad Zoo acted as the ideological visionary and organizer of the conference. This event was an important and opportune step for the professional community since animal welfare issues now play one of the key roles in the development of modern zoos and oceanariums.
The conference was attended by almost 200 specialists from various regions of Russia, including zoo and oceanarium employees, directors of zoological institutions, veterinarians, zoologists, animal behavior specialists, animal trainers, and representatives of the scientific community. Conference participants discussed issues related to the history of the development of the concept of animal welfare, modern methods of the welfare assessment, veterinary support, the specifics of working with animals with behavioral disorders, as well as approaches to the design and development of zoos in the context of the need to meet biological requirements of animals. Special attention was paid to animal training and environmental enrichment as important tools for maintaining the physical and psychological welfare of animals.
An essential part of the conference was dedicated to complex ethical issues. Participants of the conference raised the topic of the comfortable end of life of animals and discussed the importance of timely euthanasia in cases where an animal is experiencing severe physical suffering due to the illness or old age. Experts noted that any discussions about animal welfare are useless without a humane and responsible approach to ensuring the welfare of individuals at each stage of the animal's life.
The practical component of the conference included master classes on the production of environmental enrichment elements for animals, including the use of fire hoses that are durable and safe objects often used in the modern zoo practice.
The organizers paid attention not only to the professional program, but also to creating a favorable atmosphere for the conference participants. Guests were offered guided tours of the Kaliningrad Zoo, the city and the Kaliningrad region, as well as visits to some local attractions, which allowed all the participants to learn interesting information about the history, culture and natural heritage of the region.
The conference was held in the atmosphere of open professional dialogue, active exchange of experience, and engaging discussions on pressing zoo issues. This event was an important step in the development of modern humane approaches to the management of animals in captivity
