Investigate Zoo Accused of Keeping Malnourished Animals in Maggot-Infested Conditions

Target: U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack

Goal: Ensure thorough investigation and enforcement actions against facility reportedly involved in animal cruelty.

An undercover investigation has reportedly uncovered numerous instances of animal cruelty at SeaQuest, an interactive zoo and aquarium previously located in Fort Worth’s Ridgemar Mall. The facility allegedly subjected animals to unsanitary and overcrowded enclosures, roach infestations, and reckless handling by employees. Disturbing reports include maggots found in and around animals’ food bowls, malnourished otters, and incidents where animals harmed visitors due to aggravated conditions.

Additional allegations suggest that customers were able to mistreat animals, with parakeets being kicked or stomped to death. In one alarming instance, a customer allegedly grabbed a shark by the tail and held it out of the water for an extended period. There are also claims that a python escaped the facility and remained unaccounted for. Employees reportedly faced scolding from supervisors when attempting to report medical issues to a veterinarian.

SeaQuest has been cited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture between 2019 and 2024 for over 110 violations of the Animal Welfare Act, with at least 12 violations reportedly having severe adverse effects on the health and well-being of animals. Such a pattern of alleged neglect and abuse cannot be ignored. It is imperative that authorities conduct a comprehensive investigation and take decisive action to prevent further suffering of innocent animals.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Secretary Vilsack,

I am writing to express grave concern regarding reports of widespread animal cruelty and neglect at SeaQuest, an interactive zoo and aquarium formerly operating in Fort Worth, Texas. An undercover investigation has allegedly revealed numerous violations of the Animal Welfare Act, including unsanitary and overcrowded enclosures, infestations, and reckless handling of animals by staff. There are also alarming reports of animals being malnourished, injured, and even killed due to negligence and lack of proper care.

Customers reportedly had the opportunity to harm animals, with incidents of parakeets being kicked or stomped to death and a shark being removed from its tank by a visitor. Additionally, employees who attempted to report medical concerns were allegedly reprimanded by management, suggesting a systemic disregard for animal welfare.

Given SeaQuest’s history of over 110 citations by the U.S. Department of Agriculture between 2019 and 2024, I urge you to conduct a thorough investigation into these allegations and enforce all applicable laws to hold those responsible accountable. It is crucial to ensure that the animals are relocated to reputable sanctuaries where they can receive proper care. By taking decisive action, you can help prevent further suffering and set a precedent that such neglect and abuse will not be tolerated.

Sincerely,

Your Name Here

Photo credit: Atif Jan