Have you ever wondered what happens to wild animals that are kept in small zoos with poor conditions? These places are called roadside zoos, and they can be very harmful to animals. Many zoos are run in a way that focuses on making money instead of taking care of these animals.

Roadside zoos are small, non-accredited zoos where wild animals suffer in cages. These places often have acquired them illegally and keep them in terrible conditions. They often suffer both physically and psychologically.

Imagine a tiger living in a tiny cage, unable to run or play. This is the harsh reality for many animals in roadside zoos. These zoos often don't have enough money to properly care for the animals. Ungulates, which are animals with hooves like deer and horses, often have overgrown hooves that make it painful to walk. Big cats like lions and tigers can suffer from injuries and infections that go untreated. Would you want to live in a place like that?

Many animals such as big cats also suffer from physical injuries and infections. Such injuries often go untreated, as animals at roadside zoos never get veterinary care. In Waccatee Zoo, the “worst roadside zoo in America,” a tiger named Lila went completely bald as well as being malnourished. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) pushed to save the animals suffering in this zoo, and the facility closed on September 12, 2023. For this zoo, PETA rescued and relocated nine animals suffering to reputable sanctuaries where they could get care they needed.

What Can You Do to Help?

Instead of visiting roadside zoos with small cages, choose to visit bigger zoos and aquariums. Look for places that are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) or the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). These places take good care of their animals and help protect animals in the wild. Want to see animals that have been rescued from bad situations? Visit an animal sanctuary! Many sanctuaries accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries offer tours so you can meet the animals and learn their stories. One of the best ways to appreciate animals is to see them in their natural habitats. Visit a national park and enjoy some fresh air while observing amazing wildlife! You might even see animals like bears, wolves, or eagles! By making these choices, you can help ensure that animals are treated with respect and live in environments where they can thrive.