Aalborg Zoo in Denmark issued a request last week for the donation of unwanted pets to feed its carnivorous inhabitants.
The Facebook post has since drummed up widespread condemnation, so much so that the zoo has elected to close its comments section. "We understand that the post awakens feelings and interest, but hateful and malicious rhetoric is not necessary - and we urge you to preserve the good tone," the zoo updated, after confirming it had closed its comments section.
“Did you know that you can donate smaller pets to Aalborg Zoo?” the post read. “...If you have an animal that you have to leave here for various reasons, feel free to donate it to us. The animals are gently euthanized by trained staff and are afterwards used as fodder. That way, nothing goes to waste - and we ensure natural behavior, nutrition, and well-being of our predators.”
Requirements for donating animals
The zoo’s website specifically called for horses and said that, at some points of the year, there may be a waiting list to donate horses for euthanasia.
“We also accept chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs on weekdays between 10 am and 1 pm, but no more than four at a time,” the Zoo’s website reads. “If you would like to donate more than one animal at a time, please contact us to arrange a delivery.”
While euthanasia has often been used to end the suffering of sick pets and wild animals alike, the zoo insisted that animals donated cannot have been treated for illness for at least 30 days prior to being handed over.
Horses must also not exceed 147 cm at the withers and require a horse passport.
Those who donate a horse can benefit from a tax deduction of DKK 5 (NIS 2.65) per kg of meat.
While Aalborg Zoo has been met with criticism for its donation policy, a zoo in Toronto found that involving the public in the feeding process of animals could be lucrative. Around Valentine's Day, the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy allows the public to pay to name a cockroach after an ex-partner.