Chinese Zoo Faces Criticism After Dyeing Dogs To Look Like Pandas
A Chinese zoo has been accused of attempting to deceive their visitors after they dyeing dogs to look like pandas. The Taizhou Zoo in Jiangsu Province charged visitors 20 yuan (£2.22) to see the new exhibit of “panda dogs”, which opened on 1st May, which consisted of chow chows that had been dyed black and white to resemble pandas.
Zoo staff have countered the arguments that they have misled visitors, stating that the exhibit is accurately labelled as “panda dogs” and that they had never claimed that there were real pandas living in the zoo. A spokesperson for the zoo also defended the exhibit after concerns were raised over the safety of dyeing dogs fur by saying that “people also dye their hair. Natural dye can be used on dogs if they have long fur.” Despite claims by the zoo that the dye used was natural and harmless, many remain troubled by the practice.
This isn't the first time Chinese zoos have faced scrutiny over their exhibits. In the past, other zoos have been accused of similar tactics, including presenting dogs as wolves or African cats. Instances of animal deception, such as painting donkeys to look like zebras, have also been documented, drawing criticism from animal rights groups.
As discussions surrounding the ethics of zoos continue, questions arise about the treatment of animals in captivity and the responsibility of institutions to prioritise animal welfare over spectacle. The incident at Taizhou Zoo underscores the ongoing debate over the role of zoos in conservation and education, and the boundaries between entertainment and ethical ownership of animals.
