LEWISBURG — American Humane, the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare practices, announced today that Wild Hearts African Farm (Wild Hearts) in Lewisburg, Ohio, has earned recertification through the American Humane Conservation™ program and is recognized for its high standards of care and treatment of animals. Wild Hearts has continuously maintained its certification after becoming the first American Humane Certified™ zoo in Ohio in 2019.
“We are thrilled that Wild Hearts African Farm continues to meet the standards for American Humane certification,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane in a recent press release. “This certification provides American Humane with the opportunity to recognize the extensive reach of the animal welfare movement at zoos, aquariums, and conservation parks around the world.”
The release explained, to be recognized as American Humane Certified, Wild Hearts passed a rigorous independent assessment that reviewed the wellbeing of animals in their care and demonstrated overall excellence in their animal care and welfare practices. The unique process is guided by the latest science and best practices and is informed by respected veterinarians and experts in the fields of animal welfare, animal science, zoology, and ethics who have decades of experience in protecting animals.
The independent validation process — which goes above and beyond to help protect animals—provides visitors with confidence that the institution is meeting a high benchmark of care. The process includes submission of a pre-audit application, followed by an onsite audit that assesses animal welfare. Factors considered during the audit include, but are not limited to, housing, nutrition, water, lighting, shade, sound, activity levels, and the training of staff who are interacting with the animals. The benchmarks are species specific.
“We are excited to be approaching our 10th anniversary,” said Amanda Badger, Executive Director of Wild Hearts. “It’s a testament to the remarkable journey we’ve embarked upon, and we’re thrilled to continue our mission of wildlife conservation and education while proudly upholding the rigorous standards set forth by American Humane. Our ongoing collaboration with American Humane has been instrumental in our pursuit of excellence. It is appropriate that our state’s tourism slogan is Ohio, The Heart of it All, and Wild Hearts African Farm is able to offer tourists and locals alike a mindful approach to engaging animal experiences.”
The American Humane Conservation program is the first certification effort solely dedicated to helping verify the welfare and humane treatment of animals living in zoos, aquariums, and conservation centers across the globe. The program enforces rigorous, science-based, and comprehensive criteria for animal welfare that are reviewed by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee comprised of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, animal behavior, and animal ethics. The audit helps to verify good practices at deserving zoos and aquariums and offers increased assurance to visitors that the institution they are visiting is worthy of their support.
