Outrage as zoo disguises dogs as pandas to attract crowds

Outrage as zoo disguises dogs as pandas to attract crowds

A zoo in Taizhou, Jiangsu province, has sparked international outrage. After it was discovered that Chow Chow dogs were painted to resemble pandas, many were upset. The Taizhou Zoo’s ‘panda dogs’, as they were called, were presented to visitors as part of an attraction that ran daily from 8am to 5pm. The result is a lot of attention and long queues.

Zoo officials admitted that they dyed the dogs’ fur to mimic pandas’ distinctive black-and-white patterns. However, they insisted that the dyes used were natural and not harmful to the animals. Despite these commitments, the measure has drawn criticism from both visitors and animal rights activists. Many accused the zoo of misleading the public. In addition, the well-being of the dogs can be jeopardized.

The practice of transforming pets to resemble other animals is not new in China. ‘Panda dogs’ became a trend ten years ago. This was seen as part of a larger shift in the dynamics of pet ownership in the country. More and more people prefer dogs as companions, rather than seeing them as a food source.

The zoo defended its actions by stating that there are no panda bears in their facility. Also that this initiative was an innovative way to offer visitors something unique. However, this has not allayed public concerns about the ethical implications of such a spectacle.

This incident has revived the discussion about animal welfare in entertainment practices. This highlights a global debate about the limits of ethical animal treatment in zoos. As the story unfolds, the zoo faces increasing pressure to rethink its approach and, above all, ensure the welfare of the animals.

Source: NYPost

Outrage as zoo disguises dogs as pandas to attract crowds