PAWS to host global captive wildlife conference in Sacramento

The Performing Animal Welfare Society will bring experts from more than 10 countries to Sacramento Oct. 2-3 for its International Captive Wildlife Conference, the world’s longest-running event focused on the challenges facing wild animals in captivity. The conference will spotlight issues such as the exotic pet trade, big cat rescues and elephants in entertainment and tourism.

Why it matters: - The conference is designed to advance policy, research and public awareness around captive wildlife welfare. - The event draws scientists, conservationists, humane organization professionals and other experts working on issues that affect animals in zoos, circuses, the exotic pet trade and entertainment. - PAWS says the gathering helps build momentum toward better protection for wild animals in captivity and a broader end to their exploitation.

What happened: - The Performing Animal Welfare Society will hold its International Captive Wildlife Conference Oct. 2-3 in Sacramento, California. - PAWS describes the biennial meeting as the world’s longest-running conference focused on the challenges wild animals face in captivity. - The 2026 program will feature speakers doing work in more than 10 countries. - The speaker lineup includes scientists, conservationists, authors, humane organization professionals and other leading experts.

The details: - Topics will include the fast-growing exotic pet trade. - Sessions will cover public encounters with captive wildlife. - The agenda includes international big cat rescues. - The conference will also examine elephants, including behavior, conservation and their use in entertainment and tourism. - PAWS says the conference is open to advocates, professionals in the field and anyone interested in learning more about animals. - Registration and conference details are available here. - Registration closes Sept. 25, or when the event sells out. - Tickets will not be sold at the door. - PAWS also plans a special trip to its 2,300-acre sanctuary in San Andreas, which is normally closed to the public. - The sanctuary visit will show the home and care PAWS provides for rescued and retired wild animals.

Between the lines: - PAWS has used conferences as an advocacy tool since launching the first one in 1992. - The organization ties education to its broader mission of lifelong care for captive wildlife. - The Sacramento meeting extends PAWS’ long-running effort to connect experts and advocates around practical solutions.

What's next: - Attendees will gather in Sacramento for presentations, discussion and networking. - PAWS is likely to use the conference to push continued attention on captivity, rescue and animal welfare policy. - More information about PAWS is available at PAWS.