BMF TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP

Did you know that ABMA’s Behavior Management Fund (BMF) committee will provide a travel scholarship for the 2025 annual conference?

This scholarship is to assist anyone whose institution is unable to give them financial support. This will help an award recipient have the ability to present their work and help the organization by giving our membership the opportunity to hear information that supports the ABMA’s Core Values.  The deadline to submit for the 2025 conference has passed.  

Congratulations to Sarah Van Herpt from Animals Asia as the winner of the 2025 BMF Scholarship!  We look forward to hearing your bear talk in Galveston!

Healing Traumatised Bears: A Case Study

At Animals Asia, we rescue bears from the bear bile trade. These bears have been kept in terrible conditions – dark, small cages, poor nutrition, poor hygiene, and repeated anaesthesia for bile extraction. They come to us both physically and mentally traumatised, and begin their journey to rehabilitation. This case study will discuss Dawn, a female Asiatic black bear at one of our Vietnam sanctuaries. After arriving from a notorious bile farming hotspot, it was clear to us her greatest trauma was psychological. Dawn showed signs of learned helplessness, curling into a ball in the corner of her quarantine cage whenever she heard metallic noises, as well as intense stereotypic behaviour. We embarked on a journey of recovery through holistic care, with both our behavioural and veterinary teams joining forces to see her through this. Using an objective ‘problem solving aberrant behaviour’ form we identified the behaviours of concern, hypothesised the causes and consequences to Dawn, came up with what we wanted to see and how we would aim to get her there. Dawn’s management included a wide variety of techniques, aimed at different facets of the behaviour we were seeing. This included such things as; background noise to decrease the chance of startling her, systematic desensitisation and counter conditioning with our weigh and transport cages, behavioural medication, rapport building and more. Dawn’s journey is one of triumph over adversity, and the range of management techniques successfully used to rehabilitate her can be used with other traumatised species.

If you have a behavior management accomplishment, an intriguing case study, a research project, or an innovation for the field, especially one that resonates with the theme of the conference, please come share it with your colleagues!  The abstract submission details for the 2025 annual conference are below.  

Abstracts are evaluated on the following parameters:  quality of the abstract, content and subject matter of the paper, application of the ABMA mission statement, and incorporation of the theme of the conference.  Please keep in mind that we receive a number of quality submissions each year, and not all abstracts can necessarily be accepted for presentation.  When your abstract is accepted for either a poster or presentation you are required to submit a paper for the conference proceedings prior to presenting.  This submission deadline is one week before the conference.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Conference Content Advisory Committee Co-Chairs or the 2024 1st Vice President.

Presentation slots are 20 minutes total.  Presenters should plan for a few minutes of questions within that 20 minute timeframe.  It is encouraged to be available for questions throughout the remainder of the conference.  Poster presentations will be part of the conference as well.  Details on your presentation will be emailed to you if you are selected as a presenter. 

Timeline for the 2025 Abstract Submissions:

6 September- abstract submission Opens!

1 December- abstracts due by midnight EST

12 January- notifications to presenters

26 January- presenters accept/decline

20 April- papers due for proceedings
 

Conference Pricing:  

Reciprocity Registration:
If you want to utilize your reciprocity membership from AAZK or IMATA, you must contact us first to receive a coupon code to register.  The ABMA reserves the right to deny the member rate upon verifying your member status- if you are not a member of AAZK or IMATA you will be charged the non-member rate.  

Early Registration is available for purchase until 28 February.  The next day, 1 March, prices will increase. 
 
Member Weekly Early registration- $599 
Non-member Weekly Early registration- $675 
Member Daily Early registration- $140 
Non-member Daily Early registration $270 

*The weekly registration includes the icebreaker, all presentations, site visit, silent auction, poster presentations, and the banquet.  You do not need to purchase any of these items from the a la cart menu.  
**The pre-conference workshop and post conference trip are NOT included in the weekly registration and will need to be purchased separately from the a la cart menu.
***ABMA conference T shirts are discounted to $15 if purchased during EARLY registration; price will increase to $22 at the conference.  Mission Wildlife sweatshirts are $50 if purchased with early registration or at the conference.  The last day to purchase T shirts and/or sweatshirts is 28 February, which will guarantee your size and color option.   

Member Regular Weekly registration- $650 
Non-member Regular Weekly registration- $725 
Member Daily Regular registration- $199  
Non-member Daily Regular registration- $325 

Virtual Conference Registration:

Yes, this option is available for the 2025 conference!  Virtual Registration is available until 20 April.

Virtual weekly member registration- $750 
Virtual weekly non-member registration- $850 
Virtual daily registration- $225  
Virtual facility registration with 4 logins- $2000 
Virtual facility registration with 6 logins- $2500

Join us virtually and watch the conference live throughout the week, or for those viewing from around the world watch a recording during your normal waking hours.  The recording will be available for 24 hours after the close of each conference day.   

ON SITE Registration: 

Member On-site Weekly registration- $699 
Non-member On-site Weekly registration- $775 
Onsite Member Daily Registration- $375 
Onsite Non-member Daily Registration- $425 

A la Carte Items:

Location- Moody Gardens Hotel Ballroom
Member registration- $150
Non-member registration- $199
Registration available for purchase until 20 April

Icebreaker- Sunday 27 April from 6-9pm
Location- Moody Gardens Aquarium
Member and non-member registration- $99
Registration available for purchase until 27 April

Silent Auction- Tuesday 29 April from 6-9pm
Location- Moody Gardens Hotel Ballroom
Member and non-member registration- $99
Registration available for purchase until 29 April

Banquet- Friday 2 May from 6-10pm 
Location- Moody Gardens Hotel
Member and non-member registration- $99
Registration available for purchase until 30 April

Post Conference Trip- Saturday 3 May at 9am
Location- Bus leaves at 9am to Houston Zoo, one way trip
Member and non-member registration- $50 
 

The Moody Gardens Hotel is the conference hotel.  

Rate: $199/night.  Deadline to reserve your room is 4 April 2025. 

Reserve Your Room!

Parking at the hotel is free!  There are two (2) outdoor parking lots next to the hotel and a parking garage by the convention center (which does connect to the hotel).   Valet Parking is $25/night.

Saturday night, 26 April the hotel is sold out!  There are several events on the island this weekend contributing to the sold-out status.  Don't worry!  There's another hotel just 1.5 blocks away- Inn at the Waterpark- if you need an alternative for Saturday night.  There are plenty of rooms available at the Moody Gardens Hotel for the duration of the ABMA conference!

Looking for a roommate?  We can help!  Send us an email to lodging@theabma.org and we will provide you with a list of other conference attendees looking for roommates.  
By providing a resource to assist conference attendees with their lodging finances, the conference attendee hereby agrees to not hold liable The Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA) for any of the roommate choices attendees may consider, pursue, and/or agree upon.  It is the sole responsibility of the conference attendee to communicate with and research a potential roommate for the annual conference.  The ABMA is merely providing a means to communicate, which will only be released via electronic media to the individual conference attendee requesting the aforementioned assistance. 

There are TWO airports in Houston.   Houston Hobby (HOU) is the closest airport to Galveston Island.  Yes, Galveston is an island!  Hobby is a HUB for Southwest and is a minimum 45 minutes away.  Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is the larger airport and the furthest away from the island.  It's a HUB for United and is a minimum 75 minutes away.
Click here for more information about these airports.
  
Uber and Lyft will service both airports. 
Galveston Limousine offers shuttle service to both airports as well as single service transportation.  Please incorporate extra time if you will be traveling to an airport during rush hour traffic (0700-0900, 1500-1900) so you do not miss your flight!
 

Our annual conference would not be possible without the support of our sponsors. If you are interested in sponsoring, the Galveston sponsorship packet is available to view here or by clicking the photo below.  Vendor booth space is available!  You can also contact us for more information.  


 
Thank you to our conference sponsors! 
This conference would not happen without you.

The 25th annual ABMA Conference is pleased to announce several Pre and Post conference opportunities.  

Join us for a unique and interactive class on “Hoof Dissection and Comparative Anatomy” performed by Paige Poss and hosted by the Animal Behavior Management Alliance!  In this workshop, we will dive into the fascinating world of hoof anatomy, with a primary focus on horse hooves.  Our goal is to equip animal keepers working with hoof stock with the knowledge and skills needed to better care for these animals’ feet.  With limited information available on many species, we aim to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive understanding of basic hoof anatomy, the functions of various structures, and the growth process of hooves.  To enrich your learning experience, we will explore comparative anatomy including hooves from a variety of species such as donkeys, cattle, goats/sheep, and possibly reindeer.  By examining and comparing different hooves, participants will gain a three-dimensional perspective on how each hoof functions and the unique structures it comprises.  This workshop is designed to be interactive and hands-on, allowing each participant to touch and manipulate every specimen.  Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and practical skills in hoof care management.  Join us for a truly immersive learning experience!

Lunch will be provided for this all-day workshop.
Maximum attendees- 30
Cost: Member- $150, Non-member- $199

Option 2:  FeatherFest, Saturday 26 April and Sunday 27 April
Calling ALL Birders and Photographers!  If you are a birder then you need to experience FeatherFest!  The ABMA conference is scheduled at the height of migratory bird season for the upper Texas coast.  We will provide an early bird registration link for FeatherFest so you can participate in some unique birding opportunities.  This will not be managed by the ABMA; it will all be managed by FeatherFest.  However, please let us know you will be attending by checking the FeatherFest box on the conference registration form.  We want to provide you with contact information to make sure if you have any issues that you have a local to assist you!  Depending on the tour(s) you choose, lunch will either be provided or on your own.  

Post Conference
A trip to the Houston Zoo for $50 will be available to explore at your leisure.  This will be a one-way trip on Saturday, 3 May.  Leave Moody Gardens at 9am and arrive at the Houston Zoo at 10am where you can stay until closing (4pm).  Luggage will be stored in a secured room while you explore the zoo.  You can leave for the airport from the zoo at any time, or choose to stay Saturday night at a hotel closer to the airport to catch your flight.  

You will also receive $20 in zoo bucks to use for food throughout the zoo during your visit.  

There are three (3) areas that will be open for Behind-The-Scenes tours!  
Galapagos Islands – Galapagos tortoises, sea lions, and many aquatic species
Birds of the World – Vultures, flamingos, and native songbirds
South America’s Pantanal – Giant river otters, jaguars, capybaras, and more 

We are excited to announce our keynote speaker for the 2025 conference will be Julie Scardina!
 

Julie Scardina is President and co-founder of Mission Wildlife, a non-profit organization dedicated to species conservation, bringing support to animals both locally and globally.  Her lifelong love of animals led to careers as animal trainer, public educator and conservationist.  Julie served as Corporate Director of Training and Animal Ambassador Programs, as well as media spokesperson for SeaWorld and Busch Gardens.  Among thousands of appearances, Julie was the most frequent guest on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and appeared on the Today Show over 100 times discussing animals and conservation.

Julie has been recognized for her work with a variety of awards: an Emmy for educational programming, a US Fish & Wildlife Service award for conservation, a collegiate Hall of Fame induction, and IMATA’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Julie serves on the Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leaders advisory board, sharing knowledge and coaching up and coming leaders in the field of conservation.  She is co-author of the award-winning book Wildlife Heroes, highlighting 40 conservationists and their work to save imperiled species.  Julie believes “we can all be wildlife heroes - actions such as creating your own backyard habitat and making informed consumer choices make a big difference for the health of our planet and all its inhabitants.”

Learn more about the featured speakers for the 2025 ABMA conference.  

Monitoring the Activity and Behavior of Galveston’s Ghost Wolves (Monday 28 April)

Josh Henderson, Galveston Animal Services Unit

The Galveston Ghost Wolves, a unique population of wild “Fancy Coyotes,” possess genetic links to the endangered red wolf through the presence of ghost alleles. These animals play a crucial role in Galveston’s diverse ecosystem, yet their conservation presents unique challenges. This program provides an in-depth look at the history, ecological significance, and behavioral patterns of the Ghost Wolves, addressing key questions: What constitutes normal and expected behavior for these animals? At what point do they transition from being a fascinating native species to a potential public concern? How can we systematically observe and interpret their behavior to promote coexistence while ensuring both public safety and wildlife conservation? Participants will be introduced to non-invasive field observation techniques, including GPS Collar tracking, remote camera traps, public submitted reports, and data collection methods used in the Gulf Coast Canine Project. A special focus will be placed on understanding social structures, territorial behaviors, and interactions within their environment. By the end of the program, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how coyote behavior informs wildlife management strategies on Galveston Island. Additionally, the program’s public education component provides both city officials and residents with essential insights into the wild canines that share our landscape, fostering informed decision-making and responsible coexistence.


K9 Scent Detection (Monday 28 April)


Nancy DeMartin, SR Police Officer & K9 Handler, Houston METRO Police Department

K9 scent detection is a critical tool in law enforcement, military operations, and search and rescue missions. Highly trained detection dogs possess an extraordinary olfactory system, allowing them to identify and discriminate between a wide range of odors with remarkable accuracy. This presentation explores the specialized fields of explosive detection, narcotics detection, and human odor detection, highlighting the methodologies, training techniques, and operational applications of these specialized K9 units. Explosive detection dogs (EDD) play a crucial role in homeland security and counterterrorism, utilizing imprinting techniques and systematic search patterns to detect various explosive compounds. Narcotics detection dogs (NDD) are trained to identify illegal substances such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, often employed in border security, interdiction operations, and correctional facilities. Human odor detection, including tracking, trailing, and cadaver detection, is essential for locating missing persons, fugitive apprehension, and forensic investigations. The training of these specialized K9s involves classical and operant conditioning, odor recognition training, and realistic scenario-based exercises to ensure reliability in operational settings. Additionally, factors such as environmental influences, handler proficiency, and continuous training are examined to enhance detection capabilities. This presentation also discusses the challenges and advancements in scent detection, including the impact of new training methodologies, technological integration, and the ongoing evolution of scent detection science. As threats evolve, the demand for highly trained detection dogs remains vital in ensuring public safety, combating crime, and enhancing security measures worldwide.

Research Openness Panel (Tuesday 29 April)

Medical research involving animals is often misunderstood, and, like all animals in managed care, the consequences of this lack of understanding can be devastating. Transparency and openness initiatives surrounding this important work are the best ways to improve public understanding and support animal welfare programs. We have experts in the field of research who will be completely transparent about this important work and answer your tough questions about animals in a research setting.
Panel objectives include:  
• Learn about research openness initiatives in the UK and the US, and how to leverage these ideas to help promote transparency in your own facilities.

• Understand why transparency regarding our work with animals in managed care is important and not something to shy away from.

• Gain insight into Behavior Management Programs at research facilities.

• Learn strategies on how to manage animal rights groups.

• Discover how to utilize social media and community outreach in your openness strategy for your facility.

The panel moderator is Kelly Salamone.  Panelists include:
 

	Cindy Buckmaster has a PhD in Neurobiology and Behavior. She has worked in research and laboratory animal science for over 30 years. She was formerly the Director of the Center for Comparative Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine and is currently a Strategic Advisor for Transnetyx and COO of Turner Scientific Monitoring. Cindy’s involvement in the lab animal community spans a wide range of educational, advocacy, and public outreach organizations, as well, and she is frequently interviewed by the media for her knowledge of basic research with animals and laboratory animal care. In addition to her roles with Transnetyx and Turner Scientific Monitoring, she is currently the Director for Public Outreach with the National Animal Interest Alliance, Spokesperson and Past-Chair of Americans for Medical Progress, and the President of the Texas Society for Biomedical Research.
	Heidi Moomaw is the Supervisor of the Behavior Management Program at Charles River Laboratories in Reno, NV, where she manages the behavioral team that cares for almost 3,000 primates and rats. She is also the co-founder of “Behavior with Purpose,” a consulting company that specializes in developing and implementing behavioral management programs in research settings. Heidi started her journey into animal care and training at the Exotic Animal Training Program at Moorpark College, which led her to a wonderful seven years as a senior trainer at the San Diego Zoo. She had the honor of caring for, training, and educating the public about a vast variety of species.  She had an affinity for the more difficult animals and loved working on any behavioral challenge using operant conditioning. Heidi enjoyed her time at the zoo, but there was always a little voice in her head that wanted her to utilize operant conditioning in a research setting. She has a passion for using the skills learned as an animal trainer to create innovative behavioral programs for animals in research. Developing ways to enrich, appropriately desensitize, utilize operant conditioning, and care for the behavioral well-being of so many animals while maintaining the integrity of lifesaving science is a rewarding challenge.
	Paula Clifford is the executive director of Americans for Medical Progress (AMP), a non-profit organization that helps create and maintain an environment where essential medical advances can continue to be made by companies and academic institutions in the research community. Before joining AMP, Paula previously, worked for the Pennsylvania Society for Biomedical Research (PSBR) where she led efforts to provide educational programs about biomedical research for K-12 students. Her past professional roles include; Co-founder and Vice President of Operations for Animal Care Training Services (ACTS); and Veterinary Technician and then Training Manager for the University Animal Resources Department at the University of Pennsylvania. Paula has a Master degree from the University of Pennsylvania, a Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University and an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology from Camden County College. She is a Pennsylvania Licensed Veterinary Technician (CVT) and is certified by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) as a Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist (RLATG).
	Steven J Schapiro is Professor of Comparative Medicine and Chief of the Section of Primate Behavior and Environmental Enrichment in the Department of Comparative Medicine of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer. For more than 35 years, his research group has been conducting studies focused on the behavior and welfare of captive rhesus monkeys and chimpanzees, including collaborative research projects funded by NIH and NSF. An important emphasis of his research program is to provide non-human primates with opportunities to voluntarily participate in their own care. He is a co-founder of the Primate Training and Enrichment Workshop and the founder of the Primate Behavioral Management Conference. He is the editor of the Handbook of Primate Behavioral Management and co-editor of the Handbook of Laboratory Animal Science (3rd and 4th Editions) and Behavioral Biology of Laboratory Animals. He is a past-president and former treasurer of the American Society of Primatologists, and the former treasurer and vice president for membership of the International Primatological Society. He was the organizer of ‘3Rs for the CPRC’ (a/k/a Project Monkey Island), an effort to revitalize Cayo Santiago after the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria.
	Wendy Jarrett, Chief Executive, Understanding Animal Research. Wendy studied Classics at University but has focused on science and health communication for most of the past 35 years. Her work has included awareness programmes on the risk factors for heart disease and male cancers, and a campaign to persuade the UK food industry to reduce the amount of salt added to products. She is a trustee of the Blood Pressure Research Trust. Wendy has worked in animal research advocacy since 2004, apart from three years heading up the press office at the National Institute for Heath and Clinical Excellence. Since November 2012 she has been Chief Executive of Understanding Animal Research. She led the development of the Concordat on Openness on Animal Research in the UK and worked with colleagues across Europe to set up the European Animal Research Association (EARA) in 2014. In 2022 and 2023 she worked with colleagues in Australia and New Zealand to create UAR Oceania. Wendy is Vice Chair of the UK Home Office Animals in Science Committee. She is also a Vice President of the Institute for Animal Technology.

A fun, interactive workshop for animal professionals of all levels. During this workshop, we are partnering with some animal friends from the Galveston Island Humane Society. Our goal is to offer a hands-on experience and create opportunities to learn from each other.  We will start with Training 101 which focuses on the basics then transition into Training 102 which focuses on some advanced concepts. We will discuss new and maybe not-so-new ideas about how we communicate with and teach the animals in our care.

Shawna Spencer will be guiding this workshop. She is a 20+ year animal training professional. Her career has been a journey that has included working in dog training and behavior modification, training/placing service dogs, protection work, therapy dog certification, AKC Canine Good Citizen and STAR puppy evaluator. She has cared for and assisted in training with horses, camels, donkeys, llamas, chickens and goats. In 2019, Shawna made a shift to marine mammals where she began working in the education department at The Mirage in Las Vegas. In 202, she transitioned to the training department working with bottlenose dolphins. Currently, she is working as an Animal Welfare Specialist at Coral World Ocean Park in St. Thomas USVI while also serving on the board of directors for the ABMA. 

Storytelling and Interpretation Workshop (Friday 2 May)
Interpretation and Storytelling are key components to connecting people to the animals we work with.  This workshop will cover the following topics:

• What are Interpretation and Storytelling?

• Why are Interpretation and Storytelling important?

• How can we create a spark with our audience?

• How can we incorporate Tangible and Intangible concepts?

• What are Universal Concepts, and how can they help our guests relate to our wildlife?

• How can we use “Poetry” to create engaging and meaningful presentations? 

Upon completing this workshop, you will have a fundamental understanding of:

• The basic principles of interpretation

• How to create a program outline

• How to lead a thematic interpretive presentation

Kelly Salamone will be guiding this workshop. She has over 20 years of experience working with animals, including both domestic and exotic species. For the past 19 years, she has been employed at the San Diego Zoo, where she currently serves as the coordinator for all ambassador presentations. Kelly is passionate about creating presentations that help guests connect with wildlife and conservation efforts. She is a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation and has implemented interpretive techniques and guidelines within Wildlife Care at the San Diego Zoo. Additionally, Kelly is the co-founder of Behavior With Purpose, a consulting service that focuses on behavior management for research facilities. Their mission is to collaborate with research groups to enhance animal welfare and improve scientific outcomes. Kelly also serves as the Chief Information Officer and Co-Chairperson for both the Research and Evaluation Committee and the Professional Development Committee for the ABMA.

There will be one site visit for the 2025 ABMA conference.  We will be visiting Moody Gardens, which is on the same property as the hotel.  It's just a short walk across the parking lot! 
However, if you will be driving to Moody Gardens, there is free parking in the open lots and the parking garage.
While at the zoo, lunch will be provided and there will be several opportunities for ABMA behind-the-scenes and special programs.  

There will be a silent auction during the conference.  Get Excited!
Start brainstorming on some great items- doesn't have to be animal related- and you can either bring them with you to the conference or mail to us.  If you prefer to mail your item(s), please let the conference chair know.  Several unique Zoo Day experiences will be up for auction to make your zoo day more memorable.  Proceeds from the silent auction benefit the Behavior Management Fund (BMF).

Moody Gardens has graciously extended your badge entry to the Aquarium and Rainforest pyramids all week with your ABMA badge.  

The Houston Zoo will allow complimentary access from Saturday 26 April until Sunday 3 May.  If you are interested in visiting the zoo before you have your badge, please contact us.  

We continue to work with nearby facilities for complimentary badge entries before and after the conference.  Details will be posted as they become available.   

There are many questions you may have about the upcoming annual conference in Galveston.  If we have not addressed your question here, please contact us.  The 2025 conference will be 6 days, including the icebreaker the evening before the conference officially kicks off.  Each day will filled with learning and networking opportunities.  There will be a zoo day at Moody Gardens.  

What's the weather like in Galveston in April?  Galveston is an island and there is always a sea breeze, which means humidity is abundant.  Weather typically is in the upper 70's to low 80's.  April can be rainy so bring a rain jacket.

What should I wear to the conference?  The ABMA Conference is a casual event.  Keep in mind the ballroom where presentations are held will most likely be cold, so bring a jacket.  Or you can buy one at the merchandise table!  Presenters typically wear business casual on the day of their presentation.  The banquet can be a little more formal but it's not required to wear a suit and tie or evening dress.  

Will food be provided?  Yes, most food will be provided this year!  There will be snacks at breaks and lunch will be provided daily.  The icebreaker and banquet will have food provided.  Zoo Day will also have a meal provided.  If more meals are provided, we'll note that on the schedule.  

What do I need for registration?  Registration will be Sunday (1pm-5pm) at the conference hotel on the south side of the Frances Ann Moody Ballroom.  We will need your name to verify you registered for the conference.  If you're paying upon arrival, a payment method will be needed.  We accept cash and credit cards (AMEX, Discover, MasterCard & Visa).  If you're presenting you'll need to stop at the AnimalProfessional.com tabe to get details about your presentation timeslot.  If you have a poster, we have a table you can drop that off at.  If you have a silent auction item (or more than one!) we will have a table so you can drop that off too.  

Electricity in the United States runs on 110.  If you're an international traveler, please bring your appropriate converters.  

ABMA Conference Program times are listed in Central (CST).  The schedule is subject to change.  Details will be posted as they are finalized.  
View the detailed schedule!