Keeping the Zoo for All

Many organizations rely on the generosity of others for support. This article discusses the importance of maintaining our zoos for the benefit of future generations.

The human race had been dying out for quite some time.  For years, humans engaged in endless battles only to discover that race and religion were the real killers of humanity.  Most of the people who once inhabited the Earth tried to make a difference but failed.  The uncertainty was what to do with the remaining members of the human race.  The ones left behind were good people and worth saving, but they needed help.  Besides a safe place to live, they needed food.  Food was a huge problem.

Under the New Order that was supposed to save the zoos, the playing field had changed.  Animals that once lived in zoos now controlled everything.  At first the animals wanted to help, but they could only watch as more humans used their resources as tools for self-destruction. The humans who once protected the animals by passing laws to go after poachers and place limits on the number of animals that could be taken during hunting and fishing season were dwindling in number. While zoos had the goal to protect, restore, and save numerous species from extinction, efforts were increasingly stymied by the lack of space and resources needed to maintain operations.  The lack of resources eventually led to a zoo takeover by the animals.

The animals could not understand why they were neglected in the scheme of things.  They knew all humans had their assignments. Some were destined to take care of other humans, some elected to support a spiritual or political journey, others tried to save the environment, and humans with multiple assignments were not uncommon.

But who will take care of the animals? The animals recalled their biggest joy was to watch and interact with the millions of children who would visit the zoo with their family and friends.  The animals knew they could raise their families here, safe from predators and other harm.  However, when resources became scarce; so did food.  The delicate balance of the ecosystem was in jeopardy.

Realizing the precariousness of their situation, the humans gazed into the eyes of these animals for a solution and fortunately came to their senses. The bond that was forged through centuries of devotion to each other emerged once more. Deeper than the call of the wild was the message to prioritize our efforts to save the planet.  The humans realized they were given another chance. Everyone was happy. We promise the zoo will never be overlooked!  By protecting the animals – we protect ourselves.

Sheryl L. Szeinbach, PhD, MS, BSPharm is professor at Ohio State University.  Her PhD is from Purdue University, MS from the University of Kentucky, and BSPharm from the University of Texas, Austin.

Columbus zoo: http://www.colszoo.org/

Website: www.zbachhsc.com.

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