Several recent and unfortunate events at a variety of zoos and conservation centers around the United States have raised questions regarding the safety of staff and guests along with the consequences of these regulations (or lack thereof) may have on the animals themselves. Unaccredited zoos and centers should be widely scrutinized and the legitimacy of their operations should be questioned. Unfortunately, many of these facilities are the result of weak federal and state laws and limited enforcement. 

As the threat of extinction of beloved and charismatic species draws closer, zoos have become beacons of hope for their recovery and survival. Unfortunately, roadside zoos and unaccredited facilities appear to be taking advantage of insufficient laws and standards that should protect animal welfare and public safety. It is important that the public are aware of the wrongdoings of these facilities and the harm that inadequate and unclear laws on both the state and federal level can have on the animal welfare and public safety.

We are petitioning to ask the NC House and Senate to pass legislation that will prevent unnecessary deaths of workers and visitors to NC zoos and animal conservation centers.  These additional laws will also provide additional safety and care for the animals.