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Port Moody could soon ban mobile petting zoos

Is it time to ban petting zoos in Port Moody?

A report being presented to Port Moody councillors on Tuesday, Jan. 21, says mobile live animal programs have little educational value

“Petting zoos and other mobile displays featuring live animals could soon be banned in Port Moody.”

Last week, a representative from the Vancouver Humane Society attended a Port Moody City Council meeting to speak in support of a ban on mobile petting zoos, following a presentation from the BC SPCA recommending a ban.

Mobile petting zoos pose many animal welfare concerns:

  • Transportation to different locations can be an inherently stressful process for many species.
  • The animals used in these zoos are typically transported and kept in undersized cages or units that may also lack other elements they need to engage in important natural behaviours, like appropriate substrate and enrichment items.
  • Animals can develop chronic stress and health issues as a result of disrupted eating, sleeping, and drinking patterns, and from being exposed to unfamiliar sights, sounds, smells and human handling and interactions. 

A report will presented to council’s governance and legislation committee on Tuesday, January 21, recommending restrictions on mobile live animal programs in the city.

The VHS has reached out to City Council with further recommendations to help ensure exemptions do not compromise the well-being of animals.