Animals Reportedly Living in Feces at Defunct Roadside Zoo Deserve Justice

Target: Craig Kellogg, Director of USDA Animal and Plant Inspection Service, Michigan

Animals were reportedly living in horrible conditions at a defunct roadside zoo. This zoo, formerly known as Sunrise Side Nature Trail and Exotic Park, was apparently in such poor state that they had to have their bear confiscated due to its health conditions. According to reports, the bear had a swollen wound on the face, resulting in ulcers. Each animal had apparently not been attended by a veterinarian for over a year. Despite shutting down their services because of the pandemic, owners James and Barbara Svoboda upheld a license through the United States Department of Agriculture, which ultimately was why an inspector came to their site.

In the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s report, six issues were apparently noted. One bobcat was reportedly obese with matted fur and there was a seemingly malnourished lion with bones protruding. In the bobcat’s enclosure feces reportedly covered the litter box and it seemed like the animal could not walk normally. In the lion’s exhibit, mold was apparently around the food in addition to feces covering the enclosure. The bear’s exhibit was similarly seemingly unattended and unkempt. The caretakers were given a week to fix all the cited issues.

To the inspector’s dismay, the violations were apparently not addressed, and a vet was not even administered to assist any of the animals. The bear’s wounds were only getting worse, per reports, with dead tissue around the eye starting to form. This was what resulted in the confiscation of the animal ultimately, however this apparent lack of overall care means the owners should have all animals taken. The animals deserve proper care, treatment, and enclosures.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Mr. Kellogg,

A United States Department of Agriculture employee reported violations of a defunct zoo. Lack of compliance from the owners, James and Barbara Svoboda, apparently resulted in one of their bears being confiscated due to terrible health conditions. Enclosures were reportedly deemed unsafe for animals and humans alike, even if the zoo is no longer having visitors. The animals were seemingly not given medical care as well. We ask that you make certain each animal on the facility in Iosco County be properly treated and transferred to safer facilities.

It is quite vile that something like this could allegedly happen. With a reportedly morbidly obese bobcat and malnourished lion roaming in their own feces, these violations must not be disregarded. Please verify that they comply with federal law, and provide justice to these animals.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Wulf Willis