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Monday, August 27, 2007

Warning! Don't Take Sensitive Children to a Wild Animal Park!

Since we spent the weekend in Maine at my In-laws house we decided to break up the 3 hour trip home with a stop at the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray, ME. We thought it was a good idea at the time, both boys wanted to and the weather was nice.
Foward Scene to when we start walking around the park after they have just taken my last $20 in cash (they don't take credit cards and I never have cash!) and we get to the bobcat cage. The bobcats are pacing as most wild animals do when caged, the stench is horrendous and Jake doesn't like it much. Next cage, another animal I think it was an albino porcupine cool huh), and it's pacing. And the next cage, at this point I can't remember the animal, it's pacing too! And at this point, Jake has a breakdown, is bawling and wants to leave. We try to explain to him that these animals are better off here because they were hurt, orphaned, or being held illegally as pets and can't live on their own in the wild. What does my boy say, "they would be better off dead than unhappy and pacing in a smelly cage". I have to admit I kind of agree with him. I also don't think he will ever go on another elephant ride again. And as for taking him to a real zoo, that's not happening!
Oh the joys of having a sensitive kid! Now you've had fair warning,if you too have one! ;)

7 comments :

Anonymous said...

Oh yes, we had many trips like this... sigh. They do grow out of it, eventually, but sensitive boys are just the best. :)

Janette said...

AWE. That's so sad. About your boys and the poor animals.

Kristi Smith said...

Geez, I did not know I hadn't visited for so long. I guess I am not used to you posting this often. LOL!

Wow, he is sensitive, he will be a good man!!!=)

I love the zoo though, I could go everyday. I should want them to be free but I like looking at them!=)

Jolene George said...

Awww... poor kid...that is so sad! I would hate to se the animals like that too.

Donna said...

I know I'd feel the same way! Poor Jake and poor animals. I don't go to pet stores either. Same sort of thing. I would want to take every one of them home with me.

Rachael said...

Awwww, poor little guy! :( You should remind him of that when his room gets a little messy, LOL :)

Anonymous said...

Hi, I live in the town where the Maine Wildlife Park is. I just want to tell you a little history about the park, it might make your son feel better.
The park is an important place for people to see wildlife and understand their habitat needs. So your son is right on the money with his feelings.
There is a dedicated group of people who are working hard to raise money to provide new homes for the animals at the park. Last week, the foxes were moved into a brand new space - habitat friendly and designed just for them. It's expensive. The group raised over $50,000 to make the bear habitat.
Maybe you can tell your son that lots of people feel that way and there are adults working to make life better for the animals at the park. The goal is to replace the old cages with all habitat-friendly enclosures. The name of the group is Friends of Maine Wildlife Park.
I'm glad you stopped at the park, hoping that the next time you stop in, the "bad" cages will all be gone!
Thanks