Animal lovers expect that when the government steps in to suspend a facility’s license, animals will finally be protected. That is why the situation at Canton Grand Safari is so disturbing.

Despite having its license suspended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for multiple violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act, Canton Grand Safari is accused of continuing to display animals illegally. According to newly filed complaints, animals are still being exposed to dangerous conditions and inappropriate public contact—putting their lives, and the safety of visitors, at risk.

This is not a one-time mistake. Federal inspection reports and eyewitness evidence have documented a troubling pattern of neglect and unsafe practices. Young monkeys were allegedly allowed to climb on visitors without proper supervision, exposing the animals to stress and potential injury while also risking disease transmission. Inspectors have also cited filthy enclosures, exposed electrical hazards, sharp metal rods near animals, and the illegal purchase of animals from an unlicensed dealer.

These are not minor paperwork violations. They are serious failures that show a disregard for animal welfare and for the law.

Wild animals are not entertainment props. They are sentient beings who experience fear, stress, and suffering—especially in roadside zoos where profit comes before care. Facilities like Canton Grand Safari often market themselves as “safaris” or “sanctuaries,” but their actions tell a different story: animals confined in unsafe conditions, forced into unnatural interactions, and repeatedly placed in harm’s way.

The USDA has the authority to act, and it must use it. When a facility continues harmful behavior even after a license suspension, it sends a clear message that temporary penalties are not enough. Allowing Canton Grand Safari to continue operating only prolongs animal suffering and increases the risk of serious injury to both animals and the public.

We are calling for the permanent revocation of Canton Grand Safari’s license and an end to its operations. Animals deserve real protection, not repeated chances given to a facility that has already shown it cannot be trusted.

If we truly care about animals, we must speak up when the system fails them.

Sign this petition to stand with animals and demand that Canton Grand Safari be shut down for good.

Photo: PETA