It's time to phase out, not reopen, zoos

In our planned transition out of lockdown zoos have seemingly been made a priority by the Government, who have this week announced that zoos will be permitted to open to the public in England from 15th June.

It clear to us why this is happening. To provide a source of entertainment to the public who are desperate for something new to do and somewhere new to visit. And to enable zoos who have struggled during lockdown, to raise funds. 

But we believe, as I am sure you do too, that the answer is not to bail out zoos and keep them going no matter what, but to take this chance now, to make a real commitment to animal welfare and ethics in our new future as a society.

Read more here: https://www.freedomforanimals.org.uk/blog/its-time-to-phase-out-not-reopen-zoos

This is happening just weeks after we exposed numerous zoos for operating unlawfully, putting the lives of the animals they hold captive at further risk.

This is just one of the many reasons why our charity has long called for an end to zoos, aquariums and other industries keeping animals captive. And the creation of a new relationship with animals and the true conservation of their species in the wild, which puts their lives and their rights above the 'need' to entertain humans.

It's time to phase out, not reopen, zoos.

Closing down all zoos might feel like an impossible task, but I know that if we work together, that it IS possible. Just over 60 years ago there were hundreds of animals in circuses and circuses were seen as normal as zoos are today. But now they are banned thanks to the efforts of animal advocates like you.

Public perceptions can and will change, and we hope that the experience of lockdown has made us more sympathetic to the experience of animals in captivity.

It may take a long time to reach that end but we can take progressive steps now, to phase out zoos.

Please will you help me spread this message by sharing my blog? You can use the share icons on the bottom of the blog page!

Thank you for all you do for animals.
 

Sam Threadgill
Director
P.S. It's time to phase out, not reopen, zoos. This outdated industry holds animals against their will and has no place in a modern, more compassionate society, post coronavirus. Please help me to spread this message by sharing my blog. Thank you!