MIAMI – On Friday, CBS News Miami contacted the Miami-Dade County Mayor’s Workplace and the Miami Seaquarium to locate out what will happen to all the animals after the doorways close, but neither side provided clarity.
We went looking for responses, immediately after several years of perfectly-documented animal care violations and abuse by the U.S. Section of Agriculture at the Miami Seaquarium.
“My greatest panic is the identical factor occurring once again, a distinct aquarium using in excess of,” mentioned a local Maritime Biologist and researcher, Spencer Roberts.
Roberts hopes Miami-Dade County will abandon the animal park model and instead make an animal sanctuary.
“Rehabilitation product,” emphasized Roberts. “The county can lover with places like the Rosenstiel school that’s previously undertaking this type of function.”
CBS News Miami reporter Joe Gorchow requested Roberts, “Are you fearful that the county will not have an animal care strategy in advance of the proposed lease’s termination date, April 21st?”
“Totally,” answered Roberts. “It truly is a substantial undertaking and requirements to be approached very carefully.”
“I am actually worried some of the animals may be euthanized alternatively of transferred to improved services,” said Dr. Crystal Heath, co-founder of Our Honor.
The organization aims to empower veterinarians and animal specialists who confront bullying and retaliation for voicing office considerations.
Just very last month, she satisfied with previous Miami Seaquarium veterinarians whilst heading inside the facility.
“Observed fish in the reef tank ended up surrounded by turbid water,” said Heath. “They experienced lots of scarred eyes, bulging eyes. I saw Panama, who is a 30-calendar year-old dolphin, in the best deck tank, swimming extremely slowly and lethargically I observed the penguin housing experienced peeling paint and black mold existing.”
Residing conditions, coupled with multiple very well-documented animal violations by the USDA, are why Heath wants motion.
“I’m stunned the Mayor has not taken these animals into protective custody,” reported Heath. “From what I comprehend, and less than Florida regulation, animal providers can confiscate these animals and dwelling them where by they’re at.”
We looked at Florida’s Animal Cruelty State Statute, which states that a “neglected or mistreated animal may well be eliminated from its current custody.”
“We know quite a few zoo vets who are prepared to move in and assistance and provide care for these animals,” stated Heath.
A spokesperson for the mayor’s office environment states they are functioning on contingency options for the animals based on how the upcoming couple of weeks unfold.
