posted October 9, 2008
Re: “Zoo Receives Accreditation, Kresge Grant”:
Imagine the profound impact $4 million could have to enrich and improve the lives of the animals at the Chattanooga Zoo. Instead, the money was used to build a new restroom, parking lot, concessions and offices.
What a warped sense of priorities and a colossal misuse of money.
Animals at the zoo live in cages that don’t come close to the jungles, savannahs, and forests that are their natural homes. Species who naturally roam for miles are relegated to square feet. Animals who would claim vast expanses as their territory see the same four concrete and iron walls every single day. Burrowing animals are provided a pile of dirt. Instead of the vast ocean, aquatic animals live in a swimming pool.
Rather than spending scarce funds on visitor aesthetics, every cent should be spent to improve the conditions for the animals living in the zoo.
Jennifer O'Connor
Animals in Entertainment Campaign Writer
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
501 Front St.
Norfolk, Va.
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I think the criticism of the Chattanooga Zoo is misplaced. People want to come to the zoo because of the overall atmosphere which has been boosted by the renovations.
Our Zoo is one of the smallest accredited zoos in the country. Of course, accreditation standards are not different based on size - instead they are meeting the same standards as large, world-renowned zoos like San Diego, Washington, etc.
Instead of finding fault, we should all be justifiably proud of the accomplishments of our zoo in the past few years. Darde Long and her dedicated Zoo staff are to be commended for their attention to making the Chattanooga Zoo a wonderful place to visit.
Some groups would, of course, like to do away with all zoos, but we need to continue this fine tradition so our citizens can learn about animals they would otherwise never be able to see.
Dotty Volz
Chattanooga
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