Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City recently bid farewell to its beloved elephants, leaving a void in the hearts of many, myself included. The majestic creatures have always been a significant part of the zoo's charm, providing joy and amazement to visitors of all ages. Their absence has left us wishing for a new experience to fill the gap they've left behind.

Fortunately, there's an exciting opportunity to bring a similar wonder back to our zoo by introducing camel rides in the elephants' former enclosure. Camels are fascinating creatures, remarkably resilient, and perfectly capable of providing an extraordinary experience for guests. Not only do these rides offer a unique and educational encounter, they also serve as an engaging activity that can attract more families and tourists to our beloved zoo.

With the former elephant enclosure lying unused, implementing camel rides could revitalize this space without extensive renovations. It's a sustainable and feasible idea that makes productive use of existing resources. Moreover, camel rides have successfully been implemented in other zoos around the country, such as the San Diego Zoo and the Phoenix Zoo, where they are immensely popular and highly regarded by visitors.

Although the role of the camel is diminishing with the advent of technology and modern means of transport, it is still an efficient mode of communication in remote and less-developed areas. The dromedary has been used in warfare since the 6th century BC.  It is particularly prized for its capability to outrun horses in the deserts. Record of its use during the time of Alexander the Great indicate that the animal could cover up to 50 miles per day for a week and they could go for up to a month without water. An account by Aurelian also cited that, in his escape to Euphrates, Zenobiaused a dromedary to outrun her pursuers after she was defeated at Palmyra.

The dromedary also remains popular for racing, particularly in the Arab world.[14] Riding camels of Arabia, Egypt and the Sahara are locally known as the Dilool, the Hageen, and the Mehara respectively; several local breeds are included within these groups.

The ideal riding camel is strong, slender and long-legged with thin, supple skin. The special adaptations of the dromedary's feet allow it to walk with ease on sandy and rough terrain and on cold surfaces. The camels of the Bejas of Sudan and the Hedareb, Bilen, and the Tigre people of Eritrea and the Anafi camel bred in Sudan are common breeds used as riding camels.

According to Leese, the dromedary walks with four speeds or gaits: walk, jog, fast run and canter. The first is the typical speed of walking, around 4 km/h (2.5 mph). Jog is the most common speed, nearly 8–12 km/h (5.0–7.5 mph) on level ground. He estimated a speed of 14–19 km/h (8.7–11.8 mph) during a fast run, by observing northern African and Arabian dromedaries. He gave no speed range to describe the canter, but implied it was a type of gallop that if induced could exhaust the camel and the rider. Canter could be used only for short periods of time, for example in races.

The ideal age to start training dromedaries for riding is three years, although they may be stubborn and unruly. At first the camel's head is controlled, and it is later trained to respond to sitting and standing commands, and to allow mounting. At this stage a camel will often try to escape when a trainer tries to mount it. The next stage involves training it to respond to reins. The animal must be given loads gradually and not forced to carry heavy loads before the age of six. Riding camels should not be struck on their necks, rather they should be struck behind the right leg of the rider. Leese described two types of saddles generally used in camel riding: the Arabian markloofa used by single riders and the Indian pakraused when two riders mount the same camel.

Let's create a beautiful new tradition at Hogle Zoo that honors the legacy of creativity and engagement they’ve provided to our community. By installing camel rides, we can offer a fresh, educational, and entertaining option for those who miss the elephants, and for those who are curious about the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Sign this petition to urge the Hogle Zoo management to consider introducing camel rides, turning an empty space into an exciting educational adventure for everyone in Salt Lake City. Together, let's enhance our zoo and continue to enjoy the captivating experiences that it brings. Your support can make this vision a reality.