VHS opposes the keeping of wild animals for public display, entertainment or as pets, as it deprives them of the ability to freely engage in instinctual behaviours in their natural environment. Even when bred in captivity, exotic animals retain the behavioural and biological needs that they would have in the wild. They cannot be considered domesticated and they can suffer if they are confined in unnatural environments.
What we are doing about it
Ask Canada’s government to take action against the wildlife trade
Learn about the gaps in the wildlife trade at the national level and sign our campaign to federal ministers, asking them to improve laws and increase enforcement.
Tell the Greater Vancouver Zoo: If you can’t give animals a better life, don’t keep them
Please join us in sending a message to the Greater Vancouver Zoo that it needs to improve life for the animals it currently holds while working toward ending the keeping of captive animals for the sake of public entertainment.
Zoos
VHS is fighting to improve the conditions of animals living in zoos. Working with Zoocheck Canada, we have exposed poor conditions and called the Greater Vancouver Zoo to account for the welfare of animals in their care.
Aquariums
VHS has worked tirelessly to end the captivity of cetaceans (whales and dolphins). In 2019, Canada banned their captivity but they and other marine mammals continue to be held in aquariums around the world.
Exotic Pets
VHS opposes the sale and keeping of exotic pets. We have successfully campaigned for municipal bylaws that ban or restrict exotic pet ownership and sale, and have drawn public attention to the cruel wildlife trade.
Latest news
Vancouver Zoo Incident Raises Captivity Issues
Black bear in zoo – Jo-Anne McArthur / Born Free Foundation Last week, media reported that a two-year-old girl was hospitalized following an incident at the Greater Vancouver Zoo (GVZoo). Reports indicated the toddler was able to access an area not open to the public and was bitten through a fence…
‘Vancouver Aquarium Uncovered’ Documentary
Local filmmaker Gary Charbonneau delivers a controversial documentary on the Vancouver Aquarium’s rescue and captivity program. There will be a screening of the film, “Vancouver Aquarium Uncovered” on Sunday, Sept.13th, 7:30pm at the Vancouver Public library. VHS opposes the keeping of wild animals for public display, as it deprives them of the ability to…