The species may change but the love affair with the cats will never truly change. And as more pressure is applied to wild populations, more caring persons feel compelled to breed, house and attempt to save the feline. There is still a great need for talented and dedicated persons to provide the husbandry needs of captive species. Towards this end, and to honor our first President Kenneth Hatfield, it was decided in 1995 to establish a scholarship fund to encourage veterinary students to take courses in exotic medicine. This will ensure knowledgeable veterinarians in the future who will be familiar with the special needs of our charges.
Wildlife needs human allies both in the wild and in captivity.
Persons who understand and can teach others. Just as each domestic born exotic feline is an ambassador for its cousins in the wild, each caregiver must have a mission as teacher and educator.