Bandon’s West Coast Game Park Safari is under fire for serious violations of the Animal Welfare Act, as revealed by a December inspection from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Inspectors found several malnourished big cats, their ribs and hips painfully visible, highlighting potential neglect and inadequate care. Alarmingly, three of the eight freezers for food storage were empty, while one freezer was nonfunctional and contained a dead rodent, raising serious concerns about the safari’s food supply.
The safari’s representatives attributed food shortages to shipping delays and a decline in community donations, which left them in a precarious position of rationing supplies. Moreover, with just one full-time employee responsible for over 300 animals, animal care was severely compromised. Despite claims that part-time staff would support the effort, none appeared, exacerbating the staffing crisis at the facility.
The inspection report also pointed to a tragic incident of animal neglect, linking at least one death to miscommunication between staff and the attending veterinarian. A male fishing cat died after a significant fall within its enclosure, illustrating the dire consequences of inadequate supervision and communication. The report further detailed persistent sanitary violations such as rubbish, food waste, and even live rodents littering the park.
The living conditions for the animals were disheartening; enclosures were described as dark, poorly ventilated, and lacking proper winter heating. Consequently, animal waste accumulated, creating ideal conditions for parasites and disease spread. Worryingly, many animals displayed signs of psychological distress, including increased aggression and anxiety, with behaviours like pacing becoming common when hunger struck.
Inspectors have strongly advised the safari to immediately hire more staff and reduce the number of animals under its care to ensure their well-being. KTVZ News continues to monitor the situation closely, aiming to provide the latest updates as developments unfold.
Bandon’s West Coast Game Park Safari is facing allegations of Animal Welfare Act violations following a USDA inspection. Key issues included malnourished big cats, empty food freezers, inadequate staffing, and unsanitary conditions. An animal’s death was linked to miscommunication, while psychological distress was evident in the animals’ behaviour. Inspections demand immediate staffing increases and a reduction in animal numbers to ensure better care.
The West Coast Game Park Safari faces significant scrutiny over multiple Animal Welfare Act violations, reflecting a serious crisis in animal care and staffing. The situation highlights the urgent need for enhanced oversight, staffing improvements, and a commitment to animal welfare. As the park attempts to rectify these issues, the plight of the animals remains at the forefront, calling for immediate action and accountability.
Original Source: ktvz.com
