Denmark zoo asks public to donate unwanted small pets or horses to feed captive predators

A zoo in Denmark asks the public of donations of small pets or inebilized horses to feed its captive predators.

“In zoos, we are responsible for imitating the natural food chain of animals – in terms of animal welfare and professional integrity,” said the Aalborg zoo in an article on social networks.

The northern Denmark zoo said that chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs were an important part of the diet of its predators, who need “entire prey”, recalling what they would hunt in nature.

“If you have a healthy animal that must leave here for various reasons, do not hesitate to make it give it. The animals are slowly euthanized by the staff trained and are then used as fodder. In this way, nothing is waste – and we ensure natural behavior, nutrition and well -being for our predators,” said Aalborg Zoo.

The zoo said that it accepts given rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens during the week between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., but no more than four at a time.

He also accepts horses for having nourished his animals, what he says on his website is euthanized by a zoo goalkeeper and a veterinarian.

The horses to be given for animal food should not have been treated for the disease for at least a month and are subject to size restrictions, said the zoo on its website. They must also be in a state where it is sure that they are transported.

Since the horse is a gift, the donor can receive a tax deduction for the value of the horse.

“Our needs vary throughout the year, and there can be a waiting list,” said the Aalborg zoo.