Target: Keith L. Truenow, Chair of Florida Senate Committee on Agriculture
Goal: Strengthen welfare standards for businesses promoting wild animals as tourist attractions.
Over five dozen sloths were to serve as the star attractions at Sloth World Orlando. Yet by the time the facility announced its permanent closure, 31 sloths had reportedly died, and the fate of dozens more was unknown. Fortunately, roughly ten living animals were surrendered and are undergoing veterinary care at a local zoo. So ends the tragic odyssey of this promoted “slotharium,” and so begins a quest for justice.
Sloth World was the target of an extensive investigation by a sloth conservation organization. The facility came to attention after employees alleged improper care and mistreatment of the animals. These reports were supported by the apparently poor condition of the rescued sloths. The number of rescuees had initially included three more sloths, but these animals later died or were euthanized. An inspection eventually revealed alleged lacking water and electricity in the sloths’ holding chambers, as well as cages that did not meet habitation standards. Despite the findings, inspectors only gave the facility a verbal warning.
A criminal investigation has been opened, according to the attorney general, but the legal loopholes that allowed this tragedy to unfold remain. Sign the petition below to demand legislative action to close these deadly deficiencies.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Senator Truenow,
Dozens of captured wild sloths reportedly died either in transit to or under the care of Sloth World Orlando. Allegations of wrongdoing had emerged well before the attraction’s planned opening, but permitting red tape prevented an inspection for weeks. And due to existing law, this facility was not even required to report the multiple deaths that had taken place at its site. If a permit was required before such a facility’s opening – and if reports of abuse had been taken seriously during the permit process – then perhaps this tragedy could have been averted. And if Florida, which has become a gateway of sorts for the exploitation of wild animals, would take a decisive stand and ban such exploitation, then future Sloth Worlds could be stopped before they ever start.
Please listen to the pleas of conservationists, veterinary professionals, and a concerned public. Ensure Florida’s legal code reflects a commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all vulnerable animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Christian Mehlfuhrer
