In a controversial move, the Taizhou Zoo in China has garnered attention for its latest exhibit featuring dogs disguised as baby pandas. The Chow Chow dogs have been given a black and white makeover in an attempt to resemble the beloved and iconic animals.
The zoo’s decision to dye the dogs was prompted by the fact that they do not have actual pandas to showcase to visitors. A spokesperson for the zoo explained that the dogs were meant to “fill in the blank” of not having any real pandas on display. The workers at the zoo maintain that visitors are not being misled about the animals, and that the dogs are not being harmed in any way. They assured that non-toxic dye was used in the process.
Despite these assurances, animal experts have expressed concerns about the potential impact of dye on the dogs’ health. Ron Magill from Zoo Miami criticized the zoo’s actions, stating that it was unsettling and not in line with the principles of wildlife conservation. This incident is not the first time a Chinese zoo’s animals have gone viral, as seen with the sun bear incident last year.
Pandas are considered a national treasure in China and are known to boost tourism. The San Diego Zoo is set to add two giant pandas to its collection this summer, following the return of three pandas to China in November. Meanwhile, the panda dogs at Taizhou Zoo have been on display since May 1 and continue to attract visitors at a normal level.
The controversial exhibit has sparked discussions about the ethics of using animals for entertainment purposes and the importance of wildlife conservation. As the debate rages on, the panda dogs remain a curious and captivating sight at the Taizhou Zoo.
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