Stop Imprisoning Bears in Concrete Pit for Tourists

**Target:** The Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Commissioner Charlie Hatcher

**Goal:** Free two black bears from concrete pit at roadside tourist trap.

The situation at Three Bears General Store in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, appears dire for the two young black bears confined within its premises. These bears are held in a barren concrete pit, deprived of their natural instincts to forage, roam, and hibernate. Instead of a suitable habitat, they are displayed to the public as mere attractions for ticket sales, leading to a life of suffering and distress. It has been reported that past inspections have revealed numerous violations regarding their enclosures, feeding practices, and overall care, yet this facility continues to operate as if it were above scrutiny.

According to various reports, the bears endure a dismal existence marked by unsanitary conditions, as they are subjected to filthy enclosures and are forced to interact with tourists who toss broken dog biscuits into their pit. These animals purportedly exhibit signs of mental distress, pacing endlessly in their confined space — behaviors indicative of severe psychological stress due to their unnatural living conditions. Furthermore, the facility has a troubling history of seemingly ignoring the basic needs of these intelligent animals, such as providing proper shelter from the elements and clean drinking water.

It is imperative that those responsible for animal cruelty at Three Bears General Store face appropriate disciplinary actions. These bears deserve to be relocated to genuine sanctuaries where they can thrive in a more natural setting, free from exploitation. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent further suffering and to ensure that all animal welfare regulations are enforced within the state, ultimately working toward a more humane treatment of all animals.

**PETITION LETTER:**

Dear Commissioner Charlie Hatcher,

The alarming conditions at Three Bears General Store in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, have come to light, revealing a situation that demands immediate attention and action. Reports indicate that the two young black bears at this roadside operation are confined to a concrete pit, devoid of the natural environment they require to thrive, leading to behaviors associated with severe psychological distress. These bears face a constant onslaught of noisy tourists while having no escape from their barren confines—conditions that no living being should have to endure.

Multiple citations have been issued to Three Bears for unsanitary enclosures, inadequate feeding practices, and a failure to separate incompatible bears, leading to life-threatening situations. Despite these alleged violations, the facility continues to operate, seemingly with little regard for the welfare of its animals. Such actions reflect a broader issue of animal cruelty that must be addressed with urgency.

We respectfully urge you to ensure that the individuals responsible for the mistreatment of these bears are held accountable and that strict legal ramifications are enforced. It is critical for the welfare of these animals that they are retired to an accredited sanctuary where they can receive the compassionate care they require. This is not just a call for action against individual wrongdoing but a demand for a systemic change to protect all animals in similar situations across Tennessee.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Pixabay