We look forward to seeing you in Louisville for the 33rd Annual Conference of the Association of Avian Veterinarians. AAV is more than just a continuing-education conference; it is a scientific conference with cutting edge information for avian, exotic mammal, and reptilian medicine. Get all the CE you need at one great conference while networking with other avian and exotic animal practitioners in a safe and fun city and at a fabulous hotel. The Louisville Marriot hotel in downtown Louisville is offering a discounted rate of $152 for a single/double room. Students will receive a discounted hotel rate of only $110 per night for up to four people.

Louisville is a city of delightful surprises with a stunning waterfront along the Ohio River, over 120 parks, the nation’s largest urban forest, and many fun things to see and do. So bring the whole family! Cruise down the river on the Belle of Louisville, the oldest operating paddle steamboat in the nation; go on an underground adventure at the Louisville Mega Cavern with exciting underground zip lines; visit the Zoo and Science Center, or just sit back and relax and enjoy one of Kentucky’s famous bourbons or have a bite to eat at one of the city’s more than 2,500 restaurants. After a day on the town or spent in the whirlwind of conference activities, relax in the comfort of the four- Diamond Louisville Marriott Downtown Hotel. Our host hotel is close to all the action and is adjacent to the 4th Street Live dining and entertainment district.

Attend specific sessions, or stay the whole week. Registration prices include several different options from which to choose. As we do every year, we are offering a variety of programs, master classes, hands-on labs for all species, and the Pre-conference Program that includes a Behavior session concurrent with a special Welfare/ Conservation session. To ensure that your trip is both educational and fun, we have scheduled several social events: the Kick-off event at the Kentucky Derby Museum (with a Derby hat contest!), an ice cream social, and the President’s reception. Plus, your family is guaranteed to have a great time at this year’s guest program which includes a trip to the Zoo.

So don’t delay. Check out the details, and sign up today. Reserve a spot at what will be perhaps the most comprehensive exotic animal conference yet in one of the most exciting and entertaining cities in the country. See you in Louisville!

Heather W. Barron, DVM, Dipl ABVP-Avian
Immediate Past-President and Conference Chair