How captive exotic animals experience life is determined by the humans and institutions that keep them. It is presumed that zoos and aquariums are only helping animals by providing dedicated care, but there is little scientific research and data on how captive animals are faring. Are they thriving or just surviving?

The Detroit Zoological Society's (DZS) Center for Zoo Animal Welfare is a resource center for captive animal welfare knowledge, research and best practices; a convener and forum for exotic animal welfare science, practice and policy discussions; and a center conducting research and training, and recognizing advances in exotic animal welfare.