As residents of Woodbridge Township, we have witnessed firsthand the heartbreaking toll of inadequate animal care facilities. Over 100 animals have lost their lives at SeaQuest in our township alone, fueling our passion to drive change in regulations to protect both our animal companions and the community from such tragedies.

This proposed ordinance seeks to enhance animal welfare and safeguard public health by prohibiting the operation of certain facilities allowing direct public interaction with animals.

Key Points:
Prohibition: Establishments such as petting zoos or similar venues involving public interaction with farm, exotic, or wild animals will be banned within the township. Existing facilities must cease these activities within 90 days of the ordinance's enactment.

Exemptions: Accredited animal welfare organizations, licensed veterinary clinics, governmental animal shelters, research institutions, and traditional farming operations (excluding agritourism) are exempt.

Penalties: Violations may result in fines up to $2,000 per day, with additional legal remedies possible.

This ordinance underscores Woodbridge Township's commitment to humane animal treatment and the safety of its residents. Please sign this petition to urge the Township Council to adopt this important measure.

This proposed ordinance prioritizes the well-being of animals and public health and safety. We are urging the local council to recognize and address the significant issues that emerge from community interactions with animals in places like SeaQuest.

One of the fundamental issues is related to the animal welfare. These institutions often fall short of meeting animals' physical, emotional, and behavioral needs. The result is stress and illness onset in animals, which also raises safety concerns for the individuals who frequent these facilities.

The health risks coupled with the alarming ethical implications of these facilities make the passing of this ordinance crucial for our community. We, the members of Woodbridge Township, call on the local council to pass this ordinance to protect the animals and residents in our community from unnecessary health and safety risks. Protect our animals, protect our community – sign this petition today!

 

Email the town council asking them to pass the ordinance:

wbmayor@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
kyle.anderson@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
howie.bauer@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
lizabeth.dejesus@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
gregg.ficarra@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
virbhadra.patel@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
debbie.meehan@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
cory.spillar@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
brian.small@twp.woodbridge.nj.us
SHARON.MCAULIFFE@twp.woodbridge.nj.us

Subject: Request for Support: Ordinance Prohibiting Certain Interactive Animal Facilities

Dear Members of the Woodbridge Township Council,

I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed ordinance prohibiting the operation of certain interactive animal facilities in Woodbridge Township, and to respectfully request your approval of this critical measure.

Facilities that allow public interaction with animals often raise serious concerns regarding animal welfare, public health, and ethical practices. These businesses may fail to provide adequate care for animals, keeping them in environments that do not meet their physical or behavioral needs. Additionally, the risks of zoonotic disease transmission, such as salmonella or E. coli, pose significant public health concerns, particularly for children and vulnerable populations.

With the recent financial instability of facilities like SeaQuest, there is an urgent need to prevent similar businesses from relocating to our township. By passing this ordinance, Woodbridge Township can protect animals from potential mistreatment, safeguard the health and safety of its residents, and uphold our community’s commitment to ethical practices.

The proposed ordinance is thoughtfully structured, with reasonable exemptions for accredited animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and traditional farming operations, ensuring a balanced approach that addresses the issue without impacting legitimate or responsible establishments.

I urge you to take a stand for our community by supporting this ordinance. By doing so, we can prevent exploitative operations from jeopardizing the welfare of animals and the well-being of our residents.

Thank you for your consideration, and I am happy to provide further information or support in advocating for this important initiative.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]