3 Roadside Zoos Condemned by PETA for Animal Cruelty
PETA, the animal rights organization, has recently identified three roadside zoos that are engaging in animal cruelty practices, attracting major attention from the public and animal welfare activists.
Three Bears General Store: A Nightmare for Bears
Three Bears General Store in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, has come under fire for its mistreatment of bears kept in captivity. The store has been cited for various violations, including filthy enclosures, unsanitary conditions, and lack of adequate space and shelter for the animals. The two young black bears at the store are confined to a concrete pit, deprived of their natural habitat and behaviors. Visitors to the store can pay to throw broken dog biscuits at the bears, despite the unsanitary conditions in which the food lands. PETA has awarded the store with the “Grinch of the Year” Award for their neglectful treatment of the bears.
Cherokee Bear Zoo: A Cruel Tourist Trap
Cherokee Bear Zoo in North Carolina is another location where bears are suffering in captivity. The zoo keeps black bears and grizzly bears in small cinderblock pits, devoid of any natural elements or space to roam. The animals are forced to endure a life of pacing on hard concrete, leading to health issues such as arthritis. Bear cubs are exploited for public encounters, causing them psychological distress and long-term developmental problems. When the cubs outgrow their usefulness, they are disposed of, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation.
Spring River Zoo: A History of Neglect
Spring River Zoo in Roswell, New Mexico, has a troubling record of Animal Welfare Act violations, including inadequate care and unsafe facilities. Animals have died due to neglect and unsafe enclosures, with some suffering from severe injuries. Bears named Sierra and Ursula are confined to a pit, unable to exhibit natural behaviors or roam as they would in the wild. Despite promises of improvement, the zoo has failed to provide better conditions for the animals.
Take Action to Help
The mistreatment of animals at these roadside zoos is a pressing issue that requires action from the public. PETA is urging individuals to avoid visiting such facilities and to speak out against the exploitation of animals. By raising awareness and advocating for the relocation of these bears to reputable sanctuaries, we can make a difference in the lives of these suffering animals. Join the fight for animal rights and take a stand against cruelty in the name of entertainment.