The general manager of Los Angeles' parks department is citing a lack of transparency into the deaths of four horses at Griffith Park.
The Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks announced last week that the Griffith Park Pony Rides and Petting Zoo will close Dec. 21, after the department decided not to extend its contract.
According to the report, Dr. Rachael Sachar inspected the facility's 38 ponies, seven goats, two rabbits and one sheep on Jan. 3 and found "the working conditions to be satisfactory and did not witness any gross violations related to the care or the treatment of the animals on exhibit." The ponies died in March, April and August, but the city allegedly was not notified until the independent veterinarian's third inspection was received in late September.City officials noted that the operator is not required to notify the city of deceased animals.
"We are grateful that the city has taken the appropriate steps to close Griffith Park Pony Rides and Petting Zoo down," said LAAA's Zohra Fahim. "Animal abuse and animal cruelty don't align with the values of Angelenos." Weeks said his focus now is on the future of the ponies. "In the days ahead I will be attempting to find forever homes for our many ponies. I am determined to find homes for our ponies with qualified horsepeople who will care as much about our ponies as I do."
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
LA3C set times: Here’s when Snoop Dogg, Maluma and more will performThe two-day festival will take place at Los Angeles Historic State Park Dec. 10-11.
Read more »
Metro Parks board approves policy for granting easements or sale of park propertyMetro Parks has approved a policy spelling out how and when it will grant easements affecting parks after controversy over an apartment project.
Read more »
Brown County State Park named one of the top 10 most beautiful state parks in AmericaBrown County State Park ranked No. 6 on a list of America’s most beautiful state parks in the United States.
Read more »
Wildlife district: City Hall aims to save the big cats in LA’s metropolisCan pricey L.A. neighborhoods from Bel Air to Griffith Park save mountain lions and wildlife harmed by development?
Read more »
Los Angeles wildlife district: Here’s how it worksEight ways LA officials hope to save mountain lions – from humans – in the hills between the 405 and Griffith Park.
Read more »
Trial begins over death of Ugandan woman killed in Utah parkAttorneys for the family of a Ugandan activist killed by a swinging metal gate at Arches National Park in Utah are seeking $140 million in damages in a wrongful death lawsuit against the U.S. government.
Read more »