2026 PAWS International Captive Wildlife Conference

Sacramento, CA – October 2-3, 2026 PAWS Sanctuary Visit – October 4

Join us in Sacramento this October for the world’s longest-running international conference dedicated to examining the realities of wild animals in captivity.

Presented by the Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), this unique event brings together experts from across the globe to delve into the complex issues facing wild animals in entertainment, zoos, and the exotic pet trade; identify emerging issues; and explore solutions.

Since 1992, the conference has served as a forum for advancing knowledge, sharing research, and inspiring meaningful change for captive elephants, marine mammals, wild cats, nonhuman primates, and others.

Why Should You Attend?

Learn from leading voices in science, conservation, law, animal welfare, sanctuary care, and public policy.
Connect with a community of advocates, caregivers, thought leaders, and others committed to improving the lives of animals.
Recharge with new ideas, practical insights, and renewed motivation to make a difference.

Optional: Visit the PAWS Sanctuary (October 4)

A guided tour of the PAWS sanctuary, where elephants, big cats, bears, nonhuman primates, and other rescued and retired wild animals are provided with space, dignity, and compassionate care.

Early Bird Savings Take advantage of early bird savings by registering before August 14.

Registration

	On or before early registration deadline Friday, August 14	After early registration deadline Friday, August 14
Conference Registration Includes: Two-day conference, Two plant-based lunches, Four refreshment breaks	$240	$275
Conference + Icebreaker Reception Includes conference, lunches/refreshments – plus icebreaker reception	$280	$325
Conference + Sanctuary Tour Includes conference, lunches/refreshments – plus guided PAWS sanctuary tour (October 4)	$325	$360
Full package Includes conference, lunches/refreshments, icebreaker reception, guided PAWS sanctuary tour (October 4)	$365	$410

Registration closes September 25, or when the conference sells out. Capacity is limited – early registration is strongly encouraged.

Conference Details

Conference Dates

October 2-3, 2026
Optional PAWS Sanctuary visit on October 4

Conference Location

The conference will take place at the Wyndham Garden Sacramento Airport Natomas, 2298 Terracina Drive, Sacramento, California.

Hotel Reservations

The special rate room block at the Wyndham Garden Sacramento Airport Natomas is now fully booked. Some rooms remain but at a rate of $349. (Rates have risen due to a large event in the area.)

Rooms may be available at the Marriott Lofts, about one mile from the conference venue. To reserve a room at the conference rate of $349/night, call Ashley at 916-545-0411.
More affordable hotel options are available in nearby Woodland, about a 20-minute drive from the conference. Some offer complimentary shuttle service from Sacramento International Airport but attendees must arrange their own transportation to and from the conference.
Options include Hampton Inn & Suites, Fairfield by Marriott Inn, Comfort Suites, Best Western Shadow Inn, Days Inn by Wyndham, Holiday Inn Express, and Quality Inn & Suites.

Should you need assistance, contact Kim Gardner at kimkleingardner@yahoo.com.

Airport

Sacramento International Airport (SMF) serves all major airlines. Located approximately 7 miles from the conference location/hotel.

Program

Please download the conference program here.

Speakers

Explore the list of speakers here.

More Information

Find conference FAQs here.

Student Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships are available for college and high school students. Contact Kim Gardner at kimkleingardner@yahoo.com to request an application.

Make a donation to support the PAWS International Captive Wildlife Conference