IAATE Code of Ethics

An IAATE Member Shall:

  • Strive to achieve high standards of training, animal care and educational programming through knowledge and training.
  • Follow a hierarchy of behavioral procedures in training with a goal of using the least intrusive, most positive methods to influence behavior before considering the use of aversives.
  • Make the physical and mental well being of each animal the primary consideration in man­agement, training and presentation.
  • Provide professional and humane care for the animals in their care, respecting the wild nature and maintaining the dignity of each animal in life and in death.
  • Abide by local, state, provincial, and federal laws concerning avian training and associated activities.
  • Legally acquire animals and include proper documentation.
  • Only transfer animals to legal and reputable facilities
  • Establish safe work habits and conditions, abiding by current health and safety practices at all times.
  • Encourage community support and involvement through public education. The common goal is to promote a responsible concern for living beings and the welfare of the environment.
  • Work on the basis of sound ecological principles, incorporating appropriate conservation ethics and an attitude of stewardship.
  • Acknowledge limitations and enlist the assistance of a veterinari­an or other trained professionals when appropriate.
  • Respect other trainers and persons in related fields, sharing skills and knowledge in the spirit of cooperation for the welfare of the animals.
  • Respect the intellectual property and copyrights of other individuals and entities.
  • Conduct all business and activities in a professional manner with honesty, integrity, compassion, and commitment; realizing that an individual’s conduct reflects on the entire field of avian training and environmental education.