Odesa Zoo to Launch Inspection of Animal Conditions and Food Quality

The Odesa Zoo may start checking the conditions of animals and the quality of their food. Mayor Gennadiy Trukhanov was instructed to prepare the necessary order and invited specialists to join.

This was discussed at a session of the Odesa City Council broadcast by Intent.

Deputy Anastasia Bolshedvorova reported on numerous appeals from city residents who are concerned about the conditions of animals' detention and the quality of their food.

It was also mentioned that during previous sessions, cases of animal deaths, including squirrels, were discussed, the circumstances of which raise questions among the public. The deputy emphasized the need for a serious approach to the problem and suggested that she and other deputies who have already shown interest in this topic be included in the future working group.

"We decided to set up a commission to check the quality of animal nutrition and the conditions in which they live in accordance with Ukrainian law. We will go and examine each cage to see if everything is fine, what are the urgent problems. We can look at the supplier, what kind of feed is there, how fresh it is, check the contracts. We will be able to invite activists, experts who understand this topic," she said.

In response, the mayor of Odesa instructed to create a working group to study the situation in the city zoo

"Please prepare an order to create such a working group. All deputies who wish to join its work can submit applications or inform us about it so that we can include them in the group. In addition to the deputies, the group should involve specialized experts," the mayor said.

He also added that he personally observes the activities of the zoo management and considers the head of the institution to be a "colorful personality" who, in his opinion, cares about animals.

The mayor asked the working group to pay attention to the commercial facilities operating on the territory of the zoo, including attractions and kiosks selling food for animals, which is prohibited.

"We need to find out on what basis these facilities are located there, who granted the permits, and who is responsible for it. I contacted the zoo management and was told that such permits were once issued by the municipal property department. But if the head of the zoo does not have the authority to influence the activities of the tenants, we cannot demand full responsibility from him," Trukhanov emphasized.

He also emphasized the problem that these commercial outlets can sell products that visitors give to animals, despite the ban. According to him, the zoo has warning signs, but it is difficult to control the actions of all visitors.

Ірина Глухова