_WWW.THEGUZOO.COM_ "I've Got Mail!"

"Ashamed to be an Albertan" January 18, 2009

2009-02-24T13:48:00.001-07:00

Someone has to do something about this.... the way these animals are being treated is horrific. I did not even know that this was going on in Alberta, it makes me ashamed to be an Albertan. I am very much an animal lover and the pictures of these sad animals makes me very sad. I don't know how anyone, animal lover or not, could treat animals like this.

"Very Sad" December 11th, 2008

2008-11-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Friend how can these F****** get away with that. You would think that someone making a little zoo would be for the love of these beautiful creatures of God. to care and nurture That is what I thought I was going to see when I found this site. Very sad ............ Ann-Marie

"...I remember I thought it was horrible..." August 11, 2008

2008-11-08T13:32:00.001-07:00

My dad took my little sister and me to Guzoo when I was about ten, so that was eight years ago! And it was just as bad then, if not worse, then it is now.
I just read a bunch of letters saying that people loved the zoo when they were kids, but I remeber I thought it was horrible, even when I was a kid, so did my little sister. Then again I don't think my dad let me go into any of the cages and noone was there to show us around.
I just got to look in all the cages, and I remember the tiger had a cement floor and a big block to lie on with a piece of rotting meat in the corner, and I saw one animal there that was so skinny, I couldn't even recognize it, looking back, I think it might have been a moose.
I used to work at the Calgary Zoo, doing guest relations, and I've visited it many many times, and I love it. The animals have huge cages with grass and ponds and trees and toys and proper light and food, and after going to the Calgary Zoo, Guzoo absolutely disgusts me.
Although i must admit, for someone who hates Guzoo, and has for so long, I've done nothing to better the situation. And I hate that, so although I live in Calgary, I would like to help, and if you or anyone else has anything for me to do, please let me know.
love. peace.

"We lived in Three Hills for two years..." - July 6th, 2008

2008-09-07T13:28:00.000-06:00

We lived in Three Hills for 2 years. Just before we moved I talked my husband into going to the Guzoo. I had heard so many bad things about it and wanted to see for myself. The rumors were true and i was appalled at what I saw there. The pictures I took for my album all had to be severely cropped due to the disgusting conditions the animal was forced to live in. I wish the owners would realize this and clean it up for the animals sake. I would be embarrassed to recommend this "tourist" attraction to anyone in the state it is in. C.M.

"...that has made me sick to my stomach..." Sept 3rd, 2008

2008-03-09T13:35:00.001-06:00

oh my god, that has made sick to my stomach and so upset. I am balling my eyes out right now. That is so horrible! I cannot believe that is going on right here in our own "free" country. Why isn't anyone doing anything to stop this, that is so horrible. I am not even sure what to say, except, what can we do to help? Is there anyway to stop this? Is there noone who cares about these animals? Please let me know if there anything that can be done to stop this.

"...the conditions at the Guzoo are obscene..." December 2, 2008

2008-02-12T13:41:00.000-07:00

Hello Devon

I came across your website during my research. I am a Vegan living in Saskatchewan and also a member/volunteer of the WRSOS and I work at the SPCA. I was not specifically acquainted with the Guzoo but have often been disgusted by roadside zoos and fake rescue organizations. Unfortunately the Forestry Farm in Saskatchewan is almost as bad in certain areas. I found many of the responses from the Guzoo people sent to you to be both hilarious and insulting. Some of my closest friends have been diagnosed with clinical depression. However I assure you they are stable and sensible people and have never been possessed by Satan or his minions. Also we are doing just fine without the prayers of “good” Christian people, thank you. From my personal experience with a host of wild and domestic animals I can quite honestly state that the conditions at the Guzoo are obscene and completely unjustified. The signs and symptoms of psychological stress and physical discomfort are quite visible to any person with common sense. Thank you for making these horrid offenses against the vulnerable animals dependent on these clearly incompetent “caregivers” available to the public. I am not compelled by paranoid delusions or malevolence but rather an inherent desire to see animals receive at the very least the basic care and consideration that they deserve.

Best Regards
A.C

Guzoo Lies About CAZA Status

2008-02-04T15:44:00.001-07:00

On a facebook Support Group for Guzoo Animal Farm, an employee of Guzoo (whose biography can be read on the Official Guzoo Website) claimed that Guzoo was a member of the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums. This lie was quickly unraveled and Niall C. deleted the entire thing. Here are the screenshots, click on them to see them in their entirety:

"I completely agree..." February 3rd, 2008

2008-02-03T13:16:00.001-07:00

I completely agree that these types of zoos should be shut down. I urge other people to take action against such zoos by writing their MLA's, signing petitions, spreading the word, and by of course NOT attending any functions that support this type of cruelty. I applaud you for starting this site.

Animal Lover's Comments from Facebook

2008-01-14T23:12:00.001-07:00

Rebecca Q. Wrote:

WOW! I have never seen such blatent miscare and maltreatment of an animal. I am not an animal rights activist or anything and I was looking at that website and I felt like crying, what a sad state, my heart hurts for those animals. I have never had tears in my eyes from simply looking at mistreatment of animals, but that was an overwhelming amount of abuse.

To think people are actually going to this, supporting this 'business' is despicable. How anyone can want to take part in the horrable conditions these animals have to live in is beyond me. And why? sot hat they can get a cheap pass to a run down 'zoo' instead of going to a good clean adn well maintained zoo, where animals live in large environments that resemble thier natural ones?

I would rather see a lion in a large opening, with places for them to go and hide out for a bit, space to run and diffrent toys to keep them happy. I want to see happy healthy creatures when I go to a zoo, I care to pay more to see that.

The living conditions alone of those animals is disturbing to think that anyone would feel is up to par and suitable for them to live in. It is a delapitated junk yard.

Stale and rotten bread is not a treat for any animal, it is not healthy for them to eat that garbage ever, why don't they spend a bit of money and take pride in their business and make it presentable. I would be ashamed to have my name tied to that place simply based on the look of it even. If I was going to mistreat an animal I would like to at least make myself not so obvious.

Krista F. Wrote:

Lynn Gustafson will rot in hell for what he has done to these animals and all passed. I have been involved and seen this go on for more then 5 years!!!! Letter after letter after letter! And not one person who should be doing something to stop it, care. Political BULLCRAP!!!!
This should not be able to continue! Sad to say but some of these animals would be better of dead, then stuck suffering in a cage for the rest of its life!
Shame to him, his family and anyone who thinks this is ok!!!

Mellanie L. Wrote:

This place is horribly disgusting! I cried my eyes out looking at the photos. The people who run this place should be put in the dirty little cages, and be made to feel neglect first hand. Just horribly sad :(

Even supporters seem to think it's sad....

2008-01-14T23:03:00.001-07:00

A message I received on facebook from someone who was defending Guzoo:

"Look, i'll be honest with you for a minute. i agree with alot of your beliefs. i dont think that the animals at the guzoo have the best home in the world, but it is a home. i do feel sorry for the animals. i always feel bad and i wish i could cheer them up, i wish i could punch kids in the face who taunt them. but that stuff just happens, in any zoo. but i definately agree that they deserve better, but i also believe that our community is capable of making it better. but the people at the guzoo make do with what little funding they have. what we should be doing is petitioning for more government grants so that we can give the animals the home they deserve. animals were created with love by God, just like he created us with love. We all have the right to live on this planet. Especially the animals, since many of them were first. To be honest, I don't really agree with zoos. I dont think that any wild animal should be caged, whether their cage is big or not.
I want to appologize for rude and immature comments i make, im a youngin, i tend to do that. but i do have a heart. and i am sorry.
But i can tell you that arguing with the people in this town is a lost cause, because we are a small community, and a proud one. You will find that you have little support.
Keep on doing what your doing. The animals need a voice too:)

-Whitney

From a Three Hills Animal Lover

2008-01-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

I received this message on facebook and am keeping it anonymous to save the person from any backlash from the community:

I live in Three Hills and I absolutely hate the Guzoo. I am an animal lover and I think is horrible that the Guzoo is allowed to exist in it's current state. I cannot believe the blind fools who support the zoo because it is 'fun.' These animals are not happy living in these shitty conditions.

I have lived in Three Hills for 17 years and I can recall three to four times some of the lion cubs have escaped their captivity.

When I was younger--probably about then years ago--I was in a pen with these guinea pigs. All of a sudden people where shouting...apparently the lynx or some kind of big cat had managed to get out of it's pen...I was scared. Thankfully, the cat was put back in it's cage.

I also know that Lynne gets all the old rotten vegetables and old bread from the store in town to feed his animals. How sick is that? The food isn't even fresh.

This is just mind boggling that a place like this is allowed to exist. My mother and I find it hard to speak out against the Guzoo because the idiots of this town think it's the best place on earth.

Sure Lynne is a 'nice' old man...but my goodness...with the staff he has, he cannot give all those animals the proper care they need.

I would love it if the town would put money where there mouth is and help the Guzoo out with a major volunteering program.

I know the town has some fund raisers for the zoo; the money from one such fund raiser gave him enough money to finally put that fence around his property. But still, we need to do more if we love the zoo as much as we say we do.

From an animal lover.

Facebook - Guzoo Supporter Shows Ignorance

2008-01-14T22:28:00.002-07:00

Kayleigh M. of Kennebecasis Valley High wrote:

im sorry but if you would get all the information about the guzoo and how many animals that they save and help then you would be amazed. half of the acusations are untrue for a FACT. the parrots are fine. i know becuase one belonged to my mom. some of the animals there belong to me and my family and mr. gustafson is like family, so close that i call him 'grandpa'. the water is dirthy in some cages because some animals walk in it and wash their food off in it or in the ducks cases make it dirty by swimming in it. the baby animals such as monkeys, raccoons, lions and tigers have to be taken out of their cages and put on a bottle or they get too wild and unsafe. Also the fathers being territorial will try and shun them out like they wolud in the wild. and sinse in we left them in there they would kill the babies then we take them out for their own safety.

the tiger with the enclosure that has no structured roof is tame. and im not saying tame as take it ot your bed to sleep with you but was bottle fed and cared for until it wastoo big to be predetable. she prabably would have jumped out a long time ago if she really wanted to. i can assure you that she wont. plus you dont know ANYTHING about the place. you only know about what you saw. there have been many improvements since you last visited i am sure. and probably even if it was some fancy zoo you would probably want to shut it down because its not up to your standards. and plus you probably have nothing better to do then rag on something you know little about.

the goats and such are muddy because they are goats and they are like that. the perrimeter fence is the last gate resort for keeping animals in. there are many other gates that can be closed in case of an animlas escaping wich i assure you is a slim chanse. the hill which may look like there is no fence around it does in face have on its all around the hill assuring an animal cant get out. every animal there has a name and is greatly cared for by all the family and staff. and if you are going to erase my comment please do so if you wish but i would like to hear what you haveto say to me first if that is okay. so message me please with your feedback on whati have just said

My Response:

The goat enclosure shouldn't be muddy. What, do goats create mud themselves? No, the landscaping allows for standing water, therefore the goats have no choice but to live in muck and filth. It is bad for their hooves and they have no where to graze, which is very important.

The perimeter fence would do little to contain large and dangerous animals, and it is very possible for a number of the animals there to escape. Not only are some cages left unlocked, but fencing is inadequate for strong hoofstock and bears, as well as too short to contain some of the species. One of the tigers, for example, is kept in an enclosure with a MUCH shorter wall then the wall that the tiger in San Fran. Jumped over resulting in the death of a zoo visitor.

Just because the animals have names doesn't mean much. They may love them as cuddly, cute, money makers...but they don't love them enough to respect them as wild animals, and provide them with proper care.

And no, I would not be amazed. Real rescues and sanctuaries do not breed their animals and resell them. Their goal is to REDUCE the number of animals in captivity in need of help, not add to it. Animals that Guzoo has sold have ended up in horrible situations, such as Kisa the tiger in BC, kept in a 6'x6' enclosure under a porch and hauled around the country to have her picture taken chained to the floor at malls. Breeding animals is contradictory to the goals of rescues and sanctuaries. It would be like the SPCA taking in dogs and breeding them at the same time. Although, I doubt you see a problem with that either!

The parrots are NOT fine. They are exposed to toxic metals, rust, and their cages are filthy. It's obvious in the pictures, with huge piles of feces and dust millimeters thick, obviously not cleaned for some time. They are alone, highly intelligent social animals that in the wild, are never away from their flocks. The few toys they have are never replaced which leads quickly to boredom. We share our lives with many parrots and it saddens us to see how deprived the parrots at Guzoo are. I feel horrible for your bird. They are also fed completely innapropriate diets.

The state of the water can sometimes be understandable, but it is obvious that many of the containers haven't been changed for many days. They are supposed to be cleaned daily. They are often empty, or full of mud, with silt on the bottom a few inches thick. It is obvious that they aren't cleaned as often as they should be.

As for the tiger, how can you assure she won't escape? I'm sure the Sanfran zoo thought the same! She is still a wild animal and it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt at Guzoo by an animal tired of being exploited.

It's obvious to me that you've done little to know research on the needs of these animals in captivity. I am not the one that needs to do more research. You need to stop believing what the Gustafson's tell you and do some research into the care of these animals yourself.

Another Animal Lover responded to Kayleigh's post as well. Tamara C. wrote:

Kayleigh,

You are an ignorant fool. You really need to do some in-depth research on different species of animals and their most basic of needs...which the PATHETIC Guzoo does NOT MEET. Hoofed animals can not live in a wet environment because they will get hoof rot, look it up. Yes, large cats should absolutely be kept in an enclosure will a roof, have you not heard of the tiger escaping from it's enclosure and killing that teenager? What the hell is wrong with you giving your 'pets' to the guzoo? You obviously do NOT care about their well being...who gives their pets away to begin with. When you open your home to an animal you are making a commitment to them...to care for and love them through out their lives. Would you give away a child because it became inconvenient? Showing your support for such a low grade establishment shows the low level of your intelligence. Grow up!

"Guzoo has been the subject of many investigations." December 1, 2008

2008-01-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

I will not tell you who I am, But what I will say is Gazoo has been the subject of many investigations. These investigations are everything from malnutrition, lack of veterinary care, and how closely these animals are allowed to interact with visitors. There has been several reports of animal bites to the general public. These "temporary enclosures" have been the ONLY enclosures on their property...and as far as their rescue program, is it considered a "rescue" when you feed the rescue animals to other animals in the zoo? and yes, the deer don't stay long @ Gazoo !!!

"They stick up for the owners. But the animals suffer." January 8th, 2008

2008-01-08T23:05:00.000-07:00

Posted on the Alberta Zoo Action Group:

I find it interesting that places like this always have people that stick up for places like this. They stick up for the owners. But the animals suffer.

My wife and I have struggled for 2 years with trying to make a better life for parrots. But like the people that started this room we must speak for the animals. This is what matters. It has been a struggle for us.

Today we made a toast to the parrots that live here. We have all paper work done and now files to get a tax number. We our charity corporation for the parrots, in Ontario. We have had death threats, my wife have been followed by people that want to see be dead.

Because I speak for the parrots like these people speak for those poor animals. It is time we be the voices for all these animals that suffer in the hands of people like this. I have the link to this zoo on my website. http://www.freedomflights.ca we all must speak for the animals!

DETAILS ON CHARGES AGAINST GUZOO, PLUS TRIAL DATES!

2007-10-04T23:56:00.000-06:00

An activist from Calgary managed to find out the date of Gustafson's first court appearance, to hear the charges that have been laid against him. Gustafson was not in court and was represented by his lawyer. He has plead not guilty.

Quote:Criminal CODE - CC 444 A – killing cattle
Injuring or endangering cattle
444. Every one who wilfully
(a) kills, maims, wounds, poisons or injures cattle
is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years.

ANIMAL PROTECTION - AP 2 (1)
Prohibition against causing distress
2 (1) No person shall cause or permit an animal of which the person is the owner or the person in charge to be or to continue to be in distress.

There will be a preliminary inquiry on the criminal code matter at Court of Queen's Bench in Drumheller on December 5, 2007. Trial date will be June 4, 2008.

The judge expressed a sense of urgency due to the seriousness of the charges, and requested a quicker trial date. Defense replied that the offenses occurred almost a year ago and it took six months to lay the charges. It will take time to prepare as expert witnesses will be used on both sides and a prosecutor from Calgary will be used.

Facebook - "I made a choice a long time ago to NEVER visit the Guzoo"

2007-09-25T19:04:00.000-06:00

I made a choice a long time ago to NEVER visit the Guzoo. This decision was based on comments that I heard from friends that went there and a little bit of research I did. As an animal lover, I must admit I was tempted to go and possibly pet and have my picture taken with a lynx, tiger or bear. However, I knew this would be selfish and irresponsible of me. I will not support a place like this. I am proud to say I have not been there once. I could have easily gone there myself if I was not informed of the disgusting conditions prior. I am happy to see that the people that have been there are now speaking out against it. I could not imagine seeing these poor animals in person.

The photos are heartbreaking! It was sad and difficult to look at the photos but becoming informed on the current conditions that these beautiful animals are still forced to endure is the least I can do as they suffer each day.

Lets get the word out!!

Vicki B.
Calgary, AB.

I can remember going to this place when i was in my senior year of high school. It doesn't look like much has changed from then to now, and back then they were being investigated by the animal rights commission. I hope they get sentenced properly and for the animals, i hope they can be either re-released, or put in a facility where they can be looked after properly, like the Calgary Zoo.

Warren K.
Calgary, AB.

This is terrible. I cannot believe that nothing has been done to help these poor animals. How can people treat them this way? I would never want my children to see how people that call themselves a "zoo" have such blatant disregard and respect for wildlife. I will be sending an email and a letter or two.

Diane P.
Vancouver, BC.

Disgusting doesn't start to describe how I feel about this establishment (using the term loosely). I can only imagine their reaction if they were made live in such conditions. I bet the AB government would be falling all over themselves to help them out. It might take time, but what goes around comes around and they will get theirs.

Karen
St.Johns Newfoundland

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Alberta Zoo Action Group - Shut down Guzoo - End Roadside Prisons

"You are the kind of person that we all need to watch very carefully." September 19th 2007

2007-09-19T18:53:00.000-06:00

My name is Robert M. I have been involved in wildlfe for more then 30 years.

(After some research, I found that Robert is a wildlife photographer, primarily of birds, focusing on wildlife found in Northern Alberta)

Not only do I think your website is out to lunch, I will make it my personal job to see to it that others do as well. You seem to really enjoy causing trouble for people. I will give you my phone number if you wish or better still I can stop down to see you in person. You are the kind of person that we all need to watch very carefully.

(Second Email)

You really don't sound like evil people or anything. But you have got off the beaten path a bit. I don't complain on the internet about a situation I may not like, rather, I get involved and help out. I have built more animal pens then you will ever see. I have fished birds out of rivers, walked through the woods to rescue injured wildlife,I clean cages and pens out, donate my money and help out in any way I can. There are a great many people that do this. Never would I ever do what you do!! It can't work, we all need to co-operate together. You will only scare people away with just one look at your website. It's too extreme, the animals won't benefit in the long run. You will end up alone with no support, at least not the support you need to last

My response:
Robert,

We run an animal rescue ourselves. (www.themcdonaldrescue.com) A real one, that doesn't breed and sell wild animals into the pet trade, that provides vet care to sick animals, that doesn't take on more animals then we can handle. Our entire day consists of caring for these animals, helping others improve the lives of their own animals, assisting people in finding their animals appropriate homes, etc. We have also, believe it or not, fished injured birds out of water, spent hours capturing injured seagulls, magpies, and pigeons to take to the wildlife rehabilitation center, spent days hidden in our cars watching carefully set cat traps to capture (or not capture, depending on the luck of the day) feral cats to be spayed/neutered and vaccinated, and have dedicated our lives, our homes, and all of our extra money towards helping animals in any way that we can.

We also work alongside many other local rescues who share the same basic ethical standards as we do, such as SCARS, SNAP, NASAP, and more. Guzoo does not fit these standards. They purchase animals to expand their collection, despite not having adequate housing available for them. They claim to want to upgrade their facilities, but if that was the case, then wouldn't they put their money towards their pre-existing animals, rather then constantly breeding them and buying more?

As a wildlife lover, who has obviously spent hours in the bush patiently waiting for that perfect photograph, can you really agree with them breeding bears, skunks, and raccoons, and then selling them as pets?

They may take in unwanted animals, but they certainly don't do anything to decrease the "unwanted population". The Gustafson's claim that they are the only chance for some of these animals. If that is the case, if that animal was so unwanted in the captive trade, then why do they go on to breed that animal? How does that make any sense? How does that help the species in the long run?

My dream, what I would absolutely love to do, would be to start a captive wildlife sanctuary. A REAL one, that is capable of being accredited as such. These are the type of facilities that need our support, sanctuaries such as the Aspen Wildlife Sanctuary, The Big Cat Rescue, Monkey world, etc.... they only take in as many animals as they can comfortably and humanely support. They get them fixed to prevent breeding. They put the animals' needs first, rather then the pleasure of their visitors.

If Guzoo was an up and coming Sanctuary, that truly had the animals best interests at heart, and wasn't just perpetuating the cycle of deprived and homeless captive wildlife, then we WOULD support them. If they were providing life long homes, not allowing them to breed, only taking in as many as they could support, providing them with species specific diets, proper medical care, adequate housing, adequate enrichment and stimulation, then I wouldn't be campaigning against them...but they have proven themselves to be ultimately more interested in expanding their collection and having a constant supply of baby animals to entertain the public, then they are in improving the lives of the animals they take in and ultimately, the entire population of captive wildlife in North America.

I cannot help them, because in doing so, I would just be assisting them in re-obtaining a permit and allowing them to continue on with purchasing and breeding wild and domestic animals. They are not helping the situation of overpopulated homeless captive wild animals...they are merely contributing to it. Anybody that goes out there and volunteers their time, labor, and money, is just making it easier for the Gustafson's to stay open and continue perpetuating this cycle.

Raising awareness of the situation is the best I can do at the moment...constant public pressure since the day Guzoo opened lead to an upgrade of Zoo Regulations and Standards in 2005, which shows that the efforts put forth by concerned animal lovers such as myself DO indeed work. The vast majority of people can see the big picture, can see why this is wrong, and have enough respect for wildlife to condemn it...they just don't know about it yet. The internet is an amazing tool, able to reach out to hundreds of thousands of people...and this website in particular has already received enough support from other Albertan's (including former Guzoo supporters and visitors) that I know that It's not being taken as "too extreme".

Now, the government actually has to reinforce their new standards, and take the time to look at each species and their needs as INDIVIDUALS that need specific care in order to survive and thrive.

Devon

"I loved it....however, your messages and blogs intrigued me." September 19th 2007

2007-09-19T18:47:00.000-06:00

Hi Devon,

I first heard your accusations on Nexopia in the Pets forum. I disagreed with you completely and wondered why you didn't just leave the Guzoo alone. My boyfriend and I took my younger brothers (aged 4 & 6) to the Guzoo for the first time less than two months ago. I loved it. I loved that it was small and personal and you felt like it was there just for your enjoyment. However, your messages and blogs intrigued me. I dug until I found your website.

Looking at the pictures I very quickly became more and more disgusted with the facility. Reading your notes on each picture reminded me of some of the thoughts I had while walking through there myself. I remember wondering how a monkey could be happy in a little cage that was overgrown with grasses that were taller than I am. I remember my boyfriend having to help chickens whose heads were caught in the wire of their cages. I remember thinking how sad it was that the lions and tigers were in such small cages and seemed so lethargic, as if they had no energy at all.

I am now completely behind you...Guzoo needs to close and those animals need proper homes where they can live out their lives in the environments that will encourage growth and happiness and eating the food that will bring them physical and emotional wellness.

If there is any way that I can be of assistance to you and your fight against this establishment please feel free to contact me.

Amanda
Strathmore, Alberta

Hi Amanda, Thank you very much for your letter...I think more people would come to the same conclusion as you if they took the time to look into the actual care requirements of the species kept at Guzoo. Each individual species requires extremely specific habitat conditions...right down to temperature, humidity, and the materials it is made of. It is very easy for people to overlook that type of thing if they haven't looked into it. Once you do, you realize how deprived these animals really are. Devon

Reverse Psychology B.S.

2007-09-19T11:50:00.001-06:00

Taking a new angle in the attempt to get my website off the internet, using reverse psychology rather then threats of lawsuits and eternal damnation, Mr. Gustafson sent me another email today.

He knows that I am against Guzoo, and he wants my website taken down; therefore, he trys to make me think I am helping Guzoo in order to obtain his desired goal. If I was actually helping them, why would he bother writing me when he knows that my intention isn't to help? Wouldn't he be letting me in on his secret to success? Showing me how to inflict economic damage?

I have no intention of removing this website. I know what Lynn is trying to do, and it won't work. I haven't gotten any emails from people that have visited this site and agreed with it, and then had a change of heart after visiting. I HAVE gotten emails from people who have done just the opposite, who have been visitors or volunteers for years, but have had a change of heart after reading the website.

Complaints to the ASPCA and the Government have also obviously not stopped, as charges have been laid against Lynn Gustafson by the ASPCA under the Animal Protection Act, and the case is still pending in court. If conditions have drastically improved due to the business I've supposedly sent their way, then on what grounds is Gustafson being charged?

Anyways, on with the 'Reverse Psychology B.S.'

Dear Devon

Firstly, let me confess that I never thought I would be writing this letter, but I do believe in giving credit where it is due & you certainly deserve a large amount of credit.

From the little I know about you, I was under the impression that you were working against us but now that the summer season is over, I must thank you for all the time & effort that you have contributed towards making this our most successful season for quite a few years. I always considered your few ramblings on the internet as inconsequential, however, I was wrong.

Myself & my staff have literally lost count of the number of visitors that have said they saw your website and had to investigate our facility for themselves. These people admitted leaving with a completely different opinion of the one that they had formed before their arrival. Obviously, these people are then recommending us to work colleagues, friends & family and thanks to your efforts, visitor numbers are up by a significant percentage this year.

As all the money we make goes towards animal well-being & upkeep, your generous contribution towards making the lives of our animals more comfortable is above & beyond what I expected.

Full respect to you Devon for raising money & awareness for an establishment that you don’t always agree with, in fact we are so pleased with your selfless contributions that we will be posting a thank you note on our official website so that many more people can be made aware of your unselfish generosity towards Guzoo.

Once again, many thanks
Lynn G.

Lynn Gustafson on Pet-Abuse.com

2007-09-19T11:40:00.000-06:00

Lynn Gustafson has earned his rightful place on www.Pet-Abuse.com

"Between 1992 and 1994, Guzoo’s owner, Lynn Gustafson, was convicted of three provincial offences relating to his zoo operation: two convictions under the Wildlife Act for illegally possessing and trafficking exotic animals and an Animal Protection Act offence for failing to relieve the distress of a zoo animal.

In January, 1993 the President of the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) called for Guzoo’s permit to be revoked, noting that “the well-being of the animals is being seriously compromised by problems with lack of disease control, dirty conditions, inadequate caging and inappropriate winter shelters. There is also a real concern for public safety.”

Ongoing complaints from members of the public and animal welfare groups about the poor condition of Guzoo’s animals and its generally substandard conditions, including filthy cages, lack of water, inadequate shelters and barren enclosures, prompted Alberta Fish and Wildlife, a department of Alberta Sustainable Resources Development (SRD), to form a multi-agency task force to inspect the facility in 1999. The task force identified deficiencies in the following areas: sanitation, feeding standards, public safety, physical comfort and well-being of animals, handling and isolation facilities and record keeping.

In 2000, the SRD Minister promised that tough, new zoo regulations would be developed. In the interim time period, his department began shortening the term of and adding special conditions to Guzoo’s permits, presumably an effort to address the various animal husbandry and public safety concerns identified by the task force. However, nearly five years later, no regulations are in place and substantive changes at Guzoo are few in number.

Fish and Wildlife and the ASPCA are not the only provincial agencies that have expressed concern about conditions at Guzoo. In 1999, the Alberta Health Authority ordered Guzoo’s owner to implement procedures to reduce the risk of injury to visitors and the spread of disease from animals to humans. In 2002, the same agency produced a report detailing 10 biting incidents at Guzoo, and sent a letter to Fish and Wildlife requesting that public health and safety conditions be added to Guzoo’s permit.

In addition to the concerns raised by members of the public, various animal welfare organizations and provincial agencies, the media has also been reporting on the plight of Guzoo’s animals. In 2000, W5, a national news magazine show, produced an expose on Guzoo called Cruel Cages. The show included footage of the zoo owner feeding soda pop and junk food to the animals, as well as children interacting with carnivores. Guzoo’s owner, Lynn Gustafson, also spoke on camera about supplying animals for private individuals to keep as pets.

In 2003, the Calgary Sun published an article that included photographs of Guzoo and identified others as “too graphic to print”. In 2004, the Calgary Herald published a detailed article which described Guzoo’s filthy conditions and visitors interacting with potentially dangerous animals. These represent only a small fraction of the media reports generated over the years.

The Wildlife Act, while not specific about zoo animal housing and husbandry standards, does provide an opportunity for Fish and Wildlife to add special conditions to permits which are enforceable under the law. Since the Fish and Wildlife task force finished its report in 2000, eleven zoo permits have been issued to Guzoo, each with special conditions attached. However, evidence shows that the owner has not complied with all permit conditions and still charges have not been laid for these apparent violations of the Wildlife Act.

Conditions which do not appear to be in compliance with the permit conditions have been documented by video, still photographs and written reports from members of the public, zoo industry representatives, a veterinarian, a wildlife rehabilitator, animal protection organizations, media, the Alberta SPCA and even Fish and Wildlife enforcement staff. Yet, even after receiving all of these reports and complaints, charges still have not been laid and SRD continues to renew Guzoo’s permit. This lack of enforcement action raises a question as to whether SRD and the Alberta government is more concerned with one zoo operator than they are with the welfare of wildlife and the health and safety of zoo visitors."

http://www.pet-abuse.com/cases/11992/AB/CA/

CHARGES FILED AGAINST GUZOO UNDER ANIMAL PROTECTION ACT

2007-09-17T23:17:00.000-06:00

I got a response (finally!) to my most recent letter to the Minister of Agriculture of Alberta, George Groeneveld. Finally, things are looking up! We must keep an eye on this case and it's outcome; convictions could very well mean the closure of Guzoo.

Dear Ms. McDonald:

Thank you for your August 29, 2007 e-mail regarding the welfare of the animals at the Guzoo Animal Farm, in Three Hills, Alberta.

Amendments made to the Animal Protection Act (APA) in 2006 require all zoos in Alberta to comply with government standards. These standards, which have been in effect since April 1, 2006, provide guidance and direction for the upkeep of zoos beyond that found in legislation and zoo permit conditions. The Guzoo Animal Farm has been working with Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, the provincial ministry that enforces the Wildlife Act, and the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), which enforces the APA, to comply with zoo standards. Guzoo has since made improvements to its facility, including installation of setback barriers, automatic watering systems, additional enclosures, and fencing.

The ASPCA has responded to animal welfare complaints involving Guzoo in order to ensure compliance with the APA, and under this Act, charges have been laid against Guzoo’s owner. I cannot comment further, because this case is currently before the courts, and once a ruling has been made, future actions can be determined.

I understand your passion for animal welfare. Please know that the Government of Alberta and the province’s enforcement agencies take your concerns seriously. The ASPCA will continue to investigate complaints regarding this facility.

I appreciate you taking the time to share your concerns with me

Sincerely,

George Groeneveld
Minister, Alberta Agriculture and Food
424 legislature building, 10800-97 Ave.
phone: 427-2137 fax 422-6035

"...seen FIRST HAND the attrocities at Guzoo" August 14th 2007

2007-08-14T01:17:00.000-06:00

Thank you for speaking out for these animals who cannot speak for themselves!!

As an animal lover who has seen first hand the atrocities at Guzoo, I'm grateful for someone willing to speak out on their behalf! I first became interested in the Guzoo when friends of mine told me they were planning to adopt a basset hound puppy from this place. I told them, as someone who has owned the breed that they should learn more about the breed before purchasing, and develop their understanding of this breed of dog. I encouraged them to find a reputable breeder if truly interested and not to buy from a backyard breeder or irresponsible breeder (even worse!)!! The basset hound is a special breed and not ment for everyone, yes they are cute puppies, but also so much more. A reputable breeder will ensure this special dog goes to the right family, and not just to someone who simply falls in love with the big eyes, droopy ears and big feet!

Anyways, these people bought a puppy from an " accidental" puppy litter that was produced from so called "rescued" bassets and shortly came to find that once the sweet little pup got bigger and less cute they did not have the patience or dedication required for the breed. Rather then having this poor pup returned to the sad conditions she was born into my family adopted her!

With love and care she has grown to be a wonderful family companion. She had to overcome being adopted out at the very premature age of 4 weeks, and being bounced between homes as she out grew her cuteness! When she was taken in to be fixed we were told she had things the vet had never seen, including an extra ovary and fallopian tube, another example of quality breeding i suppose!

Years later took another friend to view the Guzoo, she could not believe such a place existed, and had not been shut down! On that visit we were horrified. In one pen the old decayed remains of an animal were present, when questioned the owners of the Guzoo said the remains belonged to an animal from the petting zoo that had grown to old and was then fed to the big cats living there! At this point we became scared to mention the injured duck we had just seen with a broken wing, for fear he would be fed to another animal without any other care or treatment given! At this time another small puppy was living there, he was so small he did not look like he could even reach the food bowel and empty water bowel provided in his empty, dirty pen. Again this puppy was very young, and appeared undernourished, living isolated in a filthy pen. Of course we could not leave this poor creature alone here and we boughht him to take home if only to save him.

How anyone refer to the Guzoo as a rescue is beyond me!!! Rescues,to my undrstanding to NOT allow the continued breeding of rescued animals, who have been abondoned or unwanted to begin with!

"this roadside zoo is a disgrace." August 13 2007

2007-08-13T23:54:00.000-06:00

Oh my lord, this roadside zoo is a disgrace. It is filthy and unsanitary. I don't know why this place isn't shut down yet and how nobody(the government) won't do anything about this!!!it is a shame that these animals have to endure such fility living conditions and everyday stress. I can only begin to imagine how these poor helpless animals must feel.this is very sickening and hurtful to see. I am an animal lover and don't like to see animals in these kind of situations.i appreciate what you are trying to do hear,and may god bless you for it.

Guzoo Dog "Rescue" Adoption Nightmare.

2007-08-11T20:06:00.000-06:00

I received this email from a woman who adopted a dog from Guzoo's 'Large Breed Dog Rescue' the first weekend of August. Her experience speaks volumes of the poor level of care given to the animals at Guzoo Animal Farm. Her letters are printed in Green, while Irene Gustafson's letters have been printed in Blue.

I am writing to report an incident that happened to us this past weekend.
My husband and I have been looking for a new small dog to get for our family for a while now. We had applied to a few dog rescue organizations, and had been checking the SPCA, and other websites looking for a suitable dog, but had not yet found a good match. I recently came across the Kijiji website, which has a dogs for sale category. On Friday (the 3rd) I spotted 3 ads for small dogs for sale from GuZoo Large Breed Rescue. One was a ShihTzu, one was a Terri-Poo, and the last was a 3 legged Brussels Griffin. Although I had heard some bad things about this place I decided to contact Irene Gustafson to see if any of the 3 were suitable for us. Here is a copy of my original email, as well as her response....

Adopter:

I am inquiring about 3 of the dogs I saw listed.
The Terri-poo, the Shih tzu/havanese, and the Brussels. We are looking for a
small indoor dog to join our family. We have a 2 & 4 yr old, as well as 3
dogs, a Springer Spaniel, and a bird. So the dog would need a suitable
personality. Preferably cuddly and still playful, with no shyness, or snappiness.
Please let me know if any of these dogs might be suitable.
Oh, and we live on an acreage just outside Sundre. Thanks, (Name removed)

Guzoo:

Thanks for your email. Out of the three little guys I have here, the best match for you would be the Brussels. You might have read on the site she only has three legs, but she is outgoing, affectionate and has been around other dogs with no problems. House training might be an issue however. She will likely need training in that area.

The Terri-poo is a nice little dog, but a little on the timid side, something she might grow out of or not, it is hard to say. She is kind and playful and desires affection also. The Shih Tzu has already found a home.

If you think you are still interested, please phone.

Irene Gustafson
GuZoo Animal Farm
Box 898, Three Hills, AB
T0M 2A0
403 443-7463

ADOPTER:

Please note that in my email where it says 3 dogs should have read 3
cats. My typing mistake.

As you can see I made it clear that we wanted a good family dog. After receiving her reply email I phoned her to ask some further questions about the griffin. I didn't find out much more than what she said in the email, except that the dog had not been examined by a vet (in her words "for $50.00 it is Buyer Beware"), and she did not know ANY history about the dog except that she was brought to them by some friend of hers (a woman) who lives in Strathmore and gets unwanted dogs all the time.

When I asked about the missing leg she told me that it had been bitten off by the mother dog (although how she knew this without knowing any history???).

So on Monday, after I called Irene to see if the dog was still there and was told that she was and that 2 couples from Calgary had looked at her but she didn't fit their lifestyles, my family and I decided to go have a look at her. When we arrived a clueless office worker took us to see the poor dog. The first thing that struck me was the condition of the enclosure. It was very dirty, and there was 5 piles of feces, none of which looked fresh. Now, we had arrived at about 11 am, and I would have expected the cage to have been cleaned by then, but it didn't look as though the feces had been picked up for a couple of days, not to mention the overall filthiness of the cage.

The next thing I noticed was the dog. The office worker was trying to corner her to put a leash on her (they had no collar for her, just the leash tied to make a choke chain), but the dog kept running away, and was visibly shaking. So the office worker asked me to come in and help grab her. I did and managed to get the leash on her. The worker left the cage to see if Irene could come tell me more about the dog. Irene never did come out. She was far too busy putting away her groceries.

After I took the dog out and petted her a bit she seemed to calm down. Her coat felt and smelled as though she had not been bathed for a long, long time and had small mats all over. I could understand (sort of) the dog seeing a vet, but to not have been groomed even a little bit? I was appalled to say the least. And I knew then that we would not allow her to stay at that hellhole.

This poor little thing needed to be rescued from this so called rescue organization.

So we filled out the purchase form, paid our $50 without any sort of receipt I might add, and took her home.

After about an hour or so at our house it became apparent that 'Honey' was very hard of hearing. I looked closer at her ears and thought they looked very strange. I could see no visible ear canal. But because I have had no experience with small griffin type dogs I did not know if that was normal. I was also concerned about her swollen genitailia, but she was in heat so once again I didn't know if that was normal. I just knew that it didn't look like any other female dog I'd seen. But regardless, I phoned our vet and she came out to examine Honey, and vaccinate her (I didn't want to expose my other dog to her until I was sure she was healthy). My vet commented about her poor condition regarding her coat, and nails (and this was after I had bathed her and brushed some of the mats from her back).And then was shocked to see the condition of her ears. Her ear canals were almost totally closed due to repeated ear infections, and would require daily cleaning but would still likely be painful for her, or the other option was surgery with an estimated cost of around $2000.00. At this point we were still willing to keep Honey and check into the surgery for her. So we had her vaccinated and had planned to get her in to get spayed ASAP.

Later that day after things settled down a bit I noticed that Honey would now let no one near her except myself. At one point she actually growled at my husband when he came into the house. Then later she was lying on the couch beside me and my 2 yr old was trying to get up too when she suddenly snapped at his face. I thought that she had actually bit him, but I didn't see any blood. After calming my child down and talking to my husband we decided that if she displayed any more aggression that we would have to surrender her. At this point I was quite worried because my 2 yr old had not done anything to provoke the attack. He hadn't pulled her fur, or poked her or anything else of that nature.

Shortly after the incident with my youngest she was lying under the kitchen table where my kids and I were sitting. My 4 yr old got off his chair and was about 3-4 feet away from Honey (I had told them both to not try to pet her again until I said it was ok) when he looked under the table. She again lunged and snapped at him.

After that she was kept in our bedroom for the safety of my kids. The next morning I made calls to try to find a place for her right away. I was scared for my kids, and did not want them to become scared of dogs (our other dog, the Springer, is great with them) so I wanted her out as soon as possible. The first one that I was able to contact was the Calgary SPCA, and they agreed to take her. When I took her in and they did their initial exam, besides the missing leg and closed ear canals she also had prolapsed genitailia. They estimated around $4000.00 in surgery. Buyer beware indeed!!

This was a terrible, heartbreaking experience for both me and my family. But to have left her at GuZoo was not an option. I feel horrible that other people out there may have to go through the same type of ordeal that we did, and after speaking with the admissions staff at the SPCA I know I am not the only one to be mislead.

How this family can continue to operate under the guise of a Rescue Organization is deplorable! I have filed a complaint with the Alberta SPCA, and I also notified Irene Gustafson about what happened.

This was her response.

GUZOO:

I am sorry about the Griffin female. I don't know what to say. Please understand we do the best we can, we choose to keep our adoption fees low and the only way we can do that is not to offer vet examinations for each animal. I don't knowingly adopt out sick or diseased animals, but I am not a vet and can only make a judgement call. Obviously I judged poorly in this case.

We tempermant test each dog and I can assure you we would NEVER adopt out a dog if we had reason to believe he/she has aggressive tendencies. I worked with that dog personally myself, and never did she ever give me reason to believe she would snap or bite.

Yes I know the dog was in need of grooming, but that is a service we simply cannot provide here. I don't think it is asking too much of new dog adoptees to bath their own dog. It can be a form or bonding and getting to know each other.

I am sorry you feel the way you do about our facility. We get many happy
emails from people who simply love their new companion. I am sorry you had such a negative experience here at our rescue.

Irene Gustafson
GuZoo Animal Farm
Box 898, Three Hills, AB
T0M 2A0
403 443-7463

I would point out her statement that they cannot provide grooming to the dogs. As far as I know this is a basic requirement for most dog breeds, and to prevent access to basic needs would seem to be a case of animal cruelty and/or neglect, would it not???

Anyhow, sorry this was so long, but I wanted to get it all down while it was still fresh in my mind. And I hope to be able to prevent any other kind hearted people from having to go through this situation. Oh, and I am not an animal activist, nor do I support PETA. I'm just a regular animal lover who can't stand to see them in distress.

Thanks for your time,
Bonnie S

** P.S. I have also contacted Canada Revenue Agency because of the fact that I was given no invoice, no receipt, and no GST was charged. If animal cruelty doesn't get the governments attention maybe tax evasion will!!!

"I don't know how this can be allowed" July 29th 2007

2007-07-29T20:01:00.000-06:00

This website was so informative. I don't know how this can be allowed. It's absolutely disgusting and makes me feel sick to my stomach. Good for you for bringing this to people's attention.

"...with recognition there is no doubt this place will be shut down." July 18 2007

2007-07-18T19:57:00.000-06:00

I`m an animal lover, and I must say that reviewing these pics of the zoo made me sick to my stomach. this zoo NEEDS to be more recognized so a petition can be done... if humans have hearts at all, with recognition there is no doubt this place will be shut down. These zoo owners NEED to go to jail and be treated the same as these pour animals. They need to lay in their own feces, be deprived of food, suffer the diseases, and allow the animals out of their cages so that they can rip these cruel people apart!

Unfortunately, Guzoo has gotten a lot of media coverage over the years, and petitions have been presented to the Alberta Government. The media has received all of the pictures on this website, yet have grown tired with animal rights and welfare related news. The best thing you can do is write the government officials listed on the website as well as local media to tell them that you ARE interested in hearing about Guzoo and the problem of roadside zoos in general. They do have access and are aware of the problem, but in the end they are in it for the money and show the news they think people want to watch.

"The Gustafsons are hoarders now..." July 17th 2007

2007-07-17T19:50:00.000-06:00

You rock.

The only time I'll visit this travesty of a 'farm' is to help in your fight by taking pictures myself that show the completely unacceptable living state of all of those magnificent animals. They'll know it's me too, because I'll be crying my eyes out that any of them should live like that.

The Gustafsons may have, a long time ago, started out with the best of intentions, but those intentions have turned into something painful for me to see, and painful for the animals to live through.

The Gustafsons are hoarders now, need to be relieved of their "responsibilities" and forbidden from ever having live animals again.

You rock. Keep it up.

Thanks for your support. I would definitely appreciate any pictures you could take and send my way. If you'd like to contact me with your email address, I can send you some information on what to look for regarding specific species, that most people will otherwise miss...things like temperature control, proper construction materials (many metals are toxic), species specific diet and enrichment, etc. I can also send you a list of zoo standards and violations to look out for. I look forward to talking to you!

"This website disgusted, horrified, nauseated me"

2007-07-15T19:47:00.000-06:00

My name is Holly and I am a 19 year old University student. This website disgusted, horrified, nauseated etc me. I love all animals deeply and want to do something to end this blatant disregard for the welfare of these poor defenseless creatures. I really want to help and appreciated the section on this site. My email is ************** and I would really like to hear from you with more suggestions or whatever. Thank you

"You have to be one of the lowest forms of life.." July 14th 2007

2007-07-14T19:36:00.000-06:00

If you even knew the half of it you would eat your own words. You have to be one of the lowest forms of life to try and manipulate your pictures and blogs the way you do. I hope you can grow up, and get a life because by reading the other statements I would consider yourself lucky that you aren't being charged with trespassing and Slander to the bsiness of the animal farm. YOU MAKE ME SICK and i can't wait until you take this too far and are considered criminally liable for your radical actions. DK,,guzoo supporter

If you know something that would justify the substandard care given to the animals at Guzoo Animal Farm, then by all means, share what you know. Change my mind. How have I manipulated anything? I shouldn't have been able to take pictures of giant piles of bird feces, filthy enclosures and dirty water dishes, because they shouldn't have been there. The pictures don't lie, there is no excuse for the enclosures to be in that state of filth.

Unfortunately for the Gustafson's, Slander only applies when the person is saying something that isn't true. I haven't lied, and all of the information I have collected legally. They haven't got a case against me.

"I was greatly disgusted and appalled..." July 9th 2007

2007-07-09T23:16:00.000-06:00

Hello!

Lately I've just discovered your website
(www.themcdonaldrescue.com)
and have come to greatly respect the work
that you are doing with all of the neglected and
abused animals that you take in. I myself am an animal lover
and pet keeper along with my fiance.
We would very much love to set up a similar place to yours
in Saskatchewan one day and also start the first
Reptile and Amphibian association in Saskatchewan. We see a need for
educational associations here on these critters, as pet keepers here are
very unaware and ill informed of the behaviors, habitats, and proper
conditions that should be met in pet keeping and caring. We see the worst
ignorance publicly in pet stores in our area but I was greatly disgusted
and appalled when I clicked on the link to read about the Guzoo Animal
Farm.

Although I've never visited the zoo myself, the pictures speak for
themselves and the response from the owners screams even louder. We
support you fully in this battle against the Guzoo Animal Farm and its
atrocities against those helpless animals. I was wondering if there is a
larger, or national level of government that I could write to myself as I
am not from Alberta? I was even thinking of writing to tourist sectors to
try and gain their support as well (if you haven't already done so) as this
zoo is an embarrassment to be showing to travelers foreign to our country.
I know I'm certainly embarrassed to be from the same country as such
ignorant and cruel people. I wish you unending strength and luck in all of
your animal saving endeavors.

Sincerely,
Jenna H.,Saskatchewan

Hi Jenna,

Thank you so much for your kind words of support and encouragement.

Your goal to start an animal sanctuary is fantastic; there can never be to many
legitimate Sanctuaries and Rescues. I completely agree that Saskatchewan
is in desperate need of a proper reptile/amphibian society; I was recently in Moose Jaw,
and visited pet stores there, in Regina, and in Saskatoon.
The conditions the reptiles and other exotics were being kept in were atrocious.
Even here though, where we have three great reptile clubs, the pet stores still
vary greatly in quality. Thankfully, there are a few that put the animals
first, such as J&J Reptiles in Calgary.
Unfortunately however, most continue to spread

false information and sell more animals into inappropriate conditions. I
wish you luck in organizing the society, I hope it all comes together for you!

As for mailing somebody on a national level, I don't think that it would be
quite as effective. Zoos are regulated by the individual provinces. However,
your letter shouldn't be disregarded; you are a source of tourist dollars, and
you have a voice that can spread the word. This issue also affects Canadians outside of Alberta;
the animals are sold to people from out of the province, and can end up anywhere.
The Wildlife Trade is an international issue, and roadside zoos all over North
America are churning out baby animals to keep the crowds coming.
Extra and Older animals are sold or traded, and many end up in rescues or
euthanized when their owners realize what they've gotten into. Wildlife rescues

everywhere are crowded and turning down animals, especially primates and big
cats. Guzoo is one of these places, that breeds their animals and sell their
offspring. These animals could end up anywhere; in Saskatchewan,
Ontario, BC,or even across the border. Plus, the more support from knowledgeable animal
lovers, the better!

Anything you can do, anybody you can write, the more of a fuss you can make,
the more likely we are to be heard, and the more likely it is that Guzoo and
roadside zoos all over Canada
will be regulated more closely and/or shut down.

Thank you for writing!
Devon

"You Are A Crazy Ass Bitch" July 8th, 2007

2007-07-08T23:08:00.000-06:00

You Are A Crazy Ass Bitch. Im Sorry, In Places You Put That Guzoo Is The Wost Of Road Side Zoo's Yeah What They Are Doing There Is Wrong, But You Put More Zoo's Like THE CALGARY ZOO, is doing wrong,
well no, Calgary Zoo Is Just Fine, They Are Very Good To Their Animals, And It Os Not Road Side Dumb Fuck.
What Your Doing, Is On A Level Wrong, And Right.
And Instead Of This You Should Take It Up With Someone That Can Do Something About It, Because If You Don't You Wont Get To "Save" These Animals Lives If Thats Even What Your Trying To Do.
Because Just Telling People. That Probably Wont Even Go To Your Page, Wont Make A Damn Difference... You Really Need To Try Harder.

Hmm, Do you know how much less energy you would expend if you didn't capitalize every word you wrote? What an effort!

I'm sure the Gustafson's are just thrilled to have such an intelligent and articulate individual advocating for them.

First of all, I have never said that the Calgary Zoo is a roadside zoo. I have it listed as one of Alberta's zoos, but not specifically a roadside zoo. It isn't. I have spoken of it favourably many times and offer it as an alternative to Guzoo.

Secondly, Are you upset with me because I am speaking out against Guzoo, or are you upset with me because I'm not speaking out loud enough? Are you upset because you think I'm not doing my best? May I ask what you're doing to help the situation? May I ask why you are so angry?

"I love my birds - All birds, actually" June 24, 2007

2007-06-24T22:49:00.000-06:00

I love my birds – all birds, actually. When I saw pictures of the filth Guzoo’s birds are kept in, I was truly shocked. Especially with the lovebird ‘aviary’. I admit I have a soft spot for lovebirds, and the conditions Guzoo’s lovebirds are forced to live in alarmed me. I would never keep any creature in such deplorable conditions!

I am owned by six parrots, but in this letter I’ll just be talking about my two lovebirds. My lovebirds are my life. I would do literally anything for them, because, to me, they are my feathered children and nothing less.

Cages and Accessories: My lovebirds cage is 36”x21”x64” with ½” bar spacing and it is powder coated. This is a nice large, safe cage for a pair of lovebirds. In their cage they are provided with at least 10 perches (rope, concrete, dowel, boing, manzanita, platform, sisal, natural, net, and hamster wheel) and 10 toys (soft wood, shredders, beads, plastics, hard wood, natural fibers, rope, etc). That is my standard and I will go no less. Despite their small size, they are incredible intelligent, active, and playful. They need a lot of room and mental stimulation, such as foraging. My lovebirds are provided with foraging opportunities every day, their favorite being their foraging tray – a plastic Tupperware filled with toy parts, paper, etc, with treats mixed in. They spend hours in that tray every day! Foraging is necessary for all captive birds, as it increases mind stimulation and decreases boredom.

Care and Cleaning: Daily care in my house consists of feeding the birds, and making sure they have fresh, clean water in their water bottles. I clean the bottom cage tray every other day because I find that my birds aren’t messy enough to need cleaning every day. Many birds are messier than mine, however, and need their cage tray cleaned every day. The perches and toys get cleaned and scrubbed whenever need be, which usually means every day or two for certain perches, like my lovebirds platform perch. The grate also gets cleaned whenever it gets dirty. Monthly, I scrub down the whole cage and rotate toys and perches.

Diet: I think my birds have a fairly decent diet. Their main diet is high quality pellets – I use Roudybush, Harrisons, and Mazuri. My lovebirds eat a mix of Roudybush and Harrisons and I give them a few Mazuri Parrot pellets in their foraging tray. Additionally, ‘breakfast’ every morning consists of a Lafeber’s nutriberry, a small piece of walnut or pecan, and bits of whatever I am eating. I make the 7-Layer salad for my birds (greens, vegetables, carrots/broccoli, cooked dry beans, pasta, fruits, frozen veggies). All my birds love their salad. Also, I make my birds ‘birdie muffins’. This is homemade cornbread with pureed fruits/veggies added rather than milk. I add some pellets and chopped vegetables as well for variety. This way, picky birds, like my lovebirds, get their needed vitamins from produce, if they eat their muffins.

Seeds are not an adequate diet for any parrots. They are the main cause of liver disease in captive parrots. Seeds to not provide adequate nutrition, and pellets should be the preferred choice, as they are ‘balanced’ nutrition specifically designed for our feathers friends.

Attention: My lovebirds are out of their cage and playing with me for a minimum of two hours a day. Most days it is more than that. They love to snuggle with me while I watch television, and play in their toy baskets outside of the cage. They love to share meals with me and otherwise spend time with me.

Other: Many parrots live in humid, rainy climates. This means that captive parrots need frequent baths or showers to keep healthy. A parrot should be misted with lukewarm water once or twice a week. Aside from cutting down on the dust birds create (mainly in cockatoos, cockatiels, and African Greys), it keeps their skin soft and many bird enjoy showers.

There’s not much more I can say other than I hope something is done about the conditions Guzoo’s animals are kept in. No animal should be forced to live in those horrible situations.

ABOVE: Guzoo's Lovebirds.

"Goodluck" May 16th, 2007

2007-05-16T01:16:00.000-06:00

I hope there is a end to this animal cruelty soon. Goodluck on your stopping animal cruelty!!!! My hat is off to you.

"I am a regular visitor of the Guzoo..." May 16, 2007

2007-05-16T01:07:00.000-06:00

Thank you!!! I am a regular visitor of the guzoo and have been in direct contact with many of the animals there, I know at the entrance to the zoo they have a sign posted saying that they are subject to regular inspections. So really I thought if they are inspected everything must be ok!! Boy was I wrong!! Thank you for drawing my attention to the real conditions of the guzoo. I will no longer visit there!!
Melissa G.

Hi Melissa,

Thank you for your letter, I'm glad you found my site informative. I think that most visitors of Guzoo are like you...kind hearted individuals who trust that the Gustafson's are doing good. If only they new how these animals should be kept, and how deprived their lives are...I don't think Guzoo would have nearly as many supporters.

Devon McDonald

"My heart is full of sorrow looking at these pictures!" May 14, 2007

2007-05-14T01:57:00.000-06:00

My heart is full of sorrow looking at these pictures! Why doesn't anyone step in and stop this horrible horrible treatment of these animals. I think a petition should be started and a meeting set up with our Premier. -Karen

Karen,

There have been many petitions created in the past, however, with the new Zoo Standards now in place, I think now may be a good time to create a new one. I will contact a few people and see what I can do.

Devon

"The Guzoo is not perfect but come on." May 16th, 2007

2007-05-13T22:19:00.000-06:00

Your terrible. I know that animal neglect is a huge issue but if you want to see neglect go to reserves and places like that in and around calgary. The guzoo is not perfect but come on. Get a life. Make a differnce with animals that don't even have any food. Kahlan

Kahlan,

What kind of arguement is "come on"? Do you think you persuaded anybody to think differently about this place with that?

I'm not a one trick pony...

www.themcdonaldrescue.com

That's my families website. Without us, those animals wouldn't have any food.

And the reserve dogs?

http://www.themcdonaldrescue.com/the_reserve_dogs_plight.html

Way ahead of you.

Thanks!

Devon McDonald

The Gustafsons Respond to New Photos - May 13th, 2007

2007-05-13T02:14:00.000-06:00

Devon,

We were notified of your new photos you obtained during your last visit here. We checked our records and on that date, April 22, 2007 we do not find you listed on our registration form. If you were here, you didn’t register. I don’t think I need to inform you that a rather large sign at the entrance to our property reads that registration is mandatory. YOU WERE TRESSPASSING. We successfully charged two individuals last year with trespassing; do you think you are above the law?

However, we are not going to press charges against you. Reason being, we have learned a lot about you (reading your reports, your chat group profiles and other rambling of yours on the internet) we have concluded that instead of charging you with a criminal offense, we are going to pray for you. The bible speaks of many incidents of Jesus healing the mentally ill; the bible refers to those incidents as demon possession. Demon possession can happen to anyone through no fault of their own. For what ever reason, you suffer from what this modern age calls mental illness. But have hope, it is curable through Jesus Christ. And so we pray.

Now let’s talk about your report.

To read the rest of Irene Gustafsons email, as well as my response, please visit:

www.theguzoo.com/guzooresponse.html

It was too difficult to format on the blog, as it has footnotes.

"What can I do?" May 13th, 2007

2007-05-13T01:51:00.000-06:00

I have never been to this zoo , but i don't think i ever want to go from what i have heard and read and seen on websites. these are animals they have feelings too and they need to have a better environment than this!! its sickening and this needs to stop! what can i do?

The BEST thing you can do is write to the following individuals/departments:

The Honourable Ed Stelmach
Premier of Alberta

Office of the Premier
Room 307, Legislature Building
10800 - 97th Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5K 2B6

Phone: (780) 427 2251

Fax: (780) 427 1349

You can also email him using this online form: http://premier.alberta.ca/contact/

The Honourable Ted Morton
Minister, Alberta Sustainable Resource Department

Legislature Office
420 Legislature Building
10800 97 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T5K 2B6
Phone: (780) 415-4815
Fax: (780) 415-4818

Constituency Office
6, 160 Maclaurin Drive
Calgary, AB
Canada T3Z 3S4
Phone: (403) 216-2221
Toll-Free: 1-866-843-4314
Fax: (403) 216-2225

The Honourable George Groeneveld
Minister of Agriculture and Food

Legislature Office
424 Legislature Building
10800 97 Avenue
Edmonton, AB
Canada T5K 2B6
Phone: (780) 427-2137
Fax: (780) 422-6035
george.groeneveld@assembly.ab.ca

To complain to the Health Authorities regaurding Public Health and Safety Hazards at Guzoo, Please take the time to write to the following individuals:

David Thompson Regional Health Authority

(Responsible for Red Deer and surrounding region, including Three Hills)

602, 4920 - 51 Street

Red Deer, AB

T4N 6K8

Phone: 403-341-8622
Fax: 403-341-8632

The Minister of Alberta Health and Wellness
The Honourable Dave Hancock

#224 Legislature Building
10800 97 Ave
Edmonton, AB
Canada T5K 2B6
Phone: (780) 427-3665
Fax: (780) 415-0961

"I pray that they get shut down!" May 10, 2007

2007-05-10T01:42:00.000-06:00

Thank you for creating this site to educate the public about this disgusting hell-hole! I gotta say, I've never been to Guzoo, but your pictures speak for themselves. Each one is more heartbreaking than the last. I just found this site two nights ago and am trying my best to spread the word about Guzoo. I pray that they get shut down!

Thanks for all your hard work and dedication,
Megan G.

"...Joanna is just plain WRONG in that asinine statement." May 10, 2007

2007-05-10T01:05:00.000-06:00

Dear Devon,

I want to offer my kudos to you for exposing this center of animal cruelty, obvious neglect and deplorable conditions that seems to be masquerading as a "zoo". Here in the USA, we very opinionated, self-righteous and obnoxious Americans have a very different idea of what makes up a proper zoo. As I'm sure you have before, look up Busch Gardens, the San Diego zoo, Disney's Animal Kingdom and even the smaller Lowry Park zoo in Tampa, FL to educate the Gustafsons on what a zoo really looks like and the kind of work it involves to maintain a safe and healthy environment for the animals.

It doesn't involve acquiring and trafficking animals illegally, having an expanse of land that they decorate with industrial buildings and shelters, or owning a house on the same property that they "retire" to for meals during the day thereby leaving the animals unsupervised with the public. And allow me to clarify, the unknowledgable and trusting public. Most citizens that live in the same province as the "zoo" (to be read with a dubious tone while imagining my raised eyebrows), are likely to think that the "zoo" owners must be knowledgable about the animals' personalities and how they react to being in close contact with humans. The public has no other choice but to trust that since animal/human contact is allowed, that no animal attacks will occur during their visit. Of the many atrocities the Gustafsons commit daily with their "zoo", I would think that the blatant lies to the public and the daily irresponsibility of subjecting their patrons to dangerous situations should be number one on that list.

I come from a country (USA) where if a child falls at a friend's house and skins a knee, the friend's parents could be subjected to a lawsuit citing unsafe conditions at the home where children reside, there could be some technicality that would prevent homeowner's insurance from covering the incident and the family could stand to lose everything they ever had because of some power hungry lawyer throwing in technicalities and difficult- to-understand law jargon until the case rules in his favor. Yes, it's a great country I live in, we just love litigation here.

Anyway, after having said all that... I cannot believe that the Gustafsons don't receive a lawsuit every day from their negligence and cruelty to the animals, irresponsibility to the public, and the fact that they live, eat and breathe with other human beings and are from the same planet as other morally upstanding, law-abiding human beings. I am personally affronted by the fact that they would be considered in the same species as you or I.

As for the Alberta government, why have there been so many serious violations and threats to revoke Guzoo's license and then nothing but inaction? The Gustafsons have learned that these are nothing but empty threats that they don't have to react to or comply with. Is that the message the government wants to send to the public? What if they were as lax in their determination to uphold the laws against murder, rape and other injustices against humans? Would the public sit up and take notice that there is a problem with the enforcement of the basic laws? I think they might.

As someone who has seen the horrific pictures of the "zoo", why does Guzoo continue to be allowed to make conditions better for a short-term permit? I have no desire to see conditions improved in this modern-day concentration camp for animals, my only desire is to see every animal placed with reputable and accredited animal sanctuaries or actual zoos where they will receive only the best treatment and be apologized to on a daily basis for the horrid conditions they used to live in... and seeing Guzoo shut down of course, really they could burn it to the ground (sans animals) and I wouldn't bat an eyelash.

The e-mails that were sent by Joanna are laughable, does she think she has a defense after one sees the pictures of the "zoo"? The e-mail by the moronic lady who claimed to be some sort of an expert in something or another was also just as obtuse as the ones by Joanna. So playing with the cute, cuddly animals "'saved her life"... what did it do for the animal who has no choice but to submit to handling while being kept in way below substandard conditions? My guess is that the animals were all ecstatic to be fed and may even have regarded the woman herself as a tasty treat, it's a pity she wasn't mauled by a lion cub that was tired of being held as he "saved her life".

In response to one of the idiotic statements of one of Joanna's e-mails, it was news to me that animals defecate all over their food repeatedly and then ingest it. While I am no animal expert, I have taken college courses in zoology and I don't remember this bit of information being in any of the textbooks I perused. I have also shared my home with pets all of my life (29 years) and I am quite sure I would remember this if it ever happened as it would have surely disrupted our daily life.

The plain and simple facts are that the water dishes are beyond filthy as they are crusted over with excrement (which we are all hopefully aware is a breeding ground for disease) and are filled with what I can only discern as mud. I suppose that at one time during the year, the bowl could have contained actual water but I refuse to believe that the dishes in the picture had been cleaned within the last month and that fresh water had been put into the bowl a few times a day. More likely, the dishes stay filthy (who really wants to touch them?) and they are refilled with water on top of dirt and excrement, thereby making poop soup.

While I agree that many animals in the wild are not the cleanest creatures, I have trouble believing that wild animals everywhere will first defecate into their water source before drinking it. I can testify to the fact that my dog will never try to drink out of a mud puddle when she has a source of fresh water at her disposal, and as such she has never even shown the slightest inclination to defecate or urinate in her water dish. I agree that my dog could be "weird" in her fresh water ways and her aversion to her own excrement and dirt, but more likely she is normal and Joanna is just plain WRONG in that asinine statement. If she thinks that excrement is a great thing to have in the water, ask her to try it sometime and see how she enjoys it... maybe with a carafe of urine on the side?

Now for the people that actually have eyeballs and have seen the pictures posted of the "zoo", obviously that doesn't include Joanna who could, I suppose, be legally blind, have cataracts in both eyes, has had her eyes scratched out by one of her tiger cubs (one can dream), or simply keeps them closed at all hours of every day. (And being the irresponsible person she is, she probably even still drives on public roads with such impaired eyesight.)

The picture that was posted with the amazon parrot, perhaps Joanna thinks the colorful pile of excrement in the corner piled about 2 feet high is decoration? Some colorful streamers the silly parrot found to try and make his cage feel like home? Joanna, if that's how you decorate your house, don't invite me over! The picture with the pigeons and doves... once again, those lumps of excrement that almost look like extrusions of the wood perch are nothing but crap, literally. All of the pictures that show disrepair and crumbling structures... am I to believe that these are simply the figment of my imagination and that they don't exist? I remember something about "blatant lies" regarding this, but if you just look at the pictures, you'll see the same thing for yourself! And if you are blind, you have no business refuting any claims of what things look like at your "zoo", along with the fact that you will not be able to see the pictures I'm referring to. The postures of the animals and the obvious listlessness that is apparent even in a still photograph indicate that these animals are suffering from illness, malnutrition and/or most definitely boredom. I encourage you to try it out for yourself Joanna, go sit in the lions' "enclosure" or the wolves' "enclosure" for at least 8 hours or so (a normal working day) and we'll see if you can do anything but lie around with an expression of boredom on your face. Oh, did I mention there won't be food or water for you? That's right, the exact same conditions you subject your animals to... we'll see how long you can last for. Oh I forgot to mention, make sure you go into the cages with the animals present (lions and wolves) and see what their thoughts and feelings might be towards you, the one who hand-fed them as babies. That could be a bit of fun for an otherwise boring day.

All tongue-and-cheek comments aside, what those photographs show is heartwrenching, disgusting, deplorable, and any other negative adjective you'd like to place here. I viewed the pictures with tears streaming down my face due to the conditions the animals are forced to live in. How anyone can look at the pictures and say it looks clean to them is beyond me. How any visitor to the "zoo" can overlook the large piles of feces everywhere you look and still want to touch the animals, I'll never understand.

I realize that morons that can barely dress themselves in the mornings do walk among us, but I prefer not to dwell on them too much. Anybody that can visit this "zoo" and call it the best zoo in the world needs to travel more. I actually laughed out loud when I saw it compared to the San Diego zoo, were you upset that they wouldn't let you in to pet the tigers, perhaps? It's a good thing I'm not in charge of that, because I'd throw you in their enclosure wholeheartedly.

This horrid "zoo" that shows such disregard for all walks of life (animal and human) should be stopped, it's a tragedy that they've been in business for a decade and that they continue to have supporters (most likely paid ones). In my eyes, the Gustafsons are another embodiment of evil in our sometimes cruel world and if I ever visit their "zoo", I will bring along some bolt cutters, gasoline and a lighter.

I commend you again for not turning a blind eye to such horrible abuse and for doing what is right for the animals. If we don't fight for animals' rights, who else is going to? At the very least, I hope this e-mail has given you a laugh or even something else to put in your blog. Feel free to use any part of it or all of it in support for your cause. A similar but more serious letter has been sent to the government's office you listed on the Mytoos website. Don't lose hope, you have a great cause! If you'd like to respond to me, don't hesitate to contact my e-mail I've listed below.

Sincerely, Katrina F.
Clearwater, FL

"Thank you..." May 8, 2007

2007-05-08T01:03:00.000-06:00

Thank you for creating this webpage, lets try to do more to post this all over the world!!

-Anonymous

"I visited Guzoo....It's a hell hole" May 3, 2007

2007-05-03T03:08:00.001-06:00

I visited Guzoo; once in the summer and once in the winter. It's a hell hole. You don't have to have any degrees to see that, all you need is EYES. Gustafson is an idiot. I don't even know how he gets dressed in the morning. I can't believe they keep renewing his permit. I can't believe he has people defending him. WHAT THE F*CK IS THE MATTER WITH YOU PEOPLE? THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR THIS KIND OF FACILITY.

- S.B.

Couldn't have said it better.

"...the only way is letting the public know." April 26 2007

2007-05-03T02:57:00.000-06:00

A friend sent your site to us. I can't believe that they would allow this or the ISP server. We have 2 parrots rescues here in Ontario in worse conditions than you have shown with the zoo. Nothing is being done. The only way is letting the public know.

I think you are doing great, and would love to a link to our site. The government will do nothing till a disease effects the public and kills them. As long as they water and feed the animals nothing will be done.

So letting the public know for these rescues here seem to be the only way.

Dave

http://www.freedomflights.ca

Dave, thank you very much for writing. I'd be happy to post your link here, as well as on our rescues website. Your organization looks amazing, thank you so much for what you are doing for those birds. I wish everybody involved with animals saw them as sentient beings that deserve respect, rather then property to be bred and sold. Thank you for taking the time to check out this site, and I encourage you to pass it on to as many people as you can, and to encourage everyone to take the time to write to the Minister of Sustainable Resource Development.

-Devon

"...Its horrid to see these poor little mites in all that mess..." April 29 2007

2007-04-29T03:05:00.000-06:00

I CAN TELL YOU I AM VERY SHOCKED TO SEE THIS HAPPENING THEY NEED SHUTING DOWN NOW , ITS HORRID TO SEE THESE POOR LITTLE MITES IN ALL THAT MESS , NO PROPER FOOD OR WATER . THEY SHOULD BE BANNED FROM LOOKING AFTER ANY ANIMALS AGAIN . MY HEART GOSE OUT TO ALL OF THEM POOR BABYS THEY NEED HELP!!!!!!!

-Anonymous

Spread the word!

"...It is absolutely pathetic that the "zoo advocates" are using quotes from a personal blog such as nexopia to try and discredit you..." April 26 07

2007-04-26T02:45:00.000-06:00

It is absolutely pathetic that the "zoo advocates" are using quotes from a personal blog such as nexopia to try and discredit you.
This is not about your age,
personal eating habits,
favorite movies
or the number of hits you have received.
This is about the well being of the animals and safe keeping of the public.
The guzoo is no where near a rescue,
i mean, did all those lions, tigers and bears (oh my!)
have to get rescued from somewhere, like their home habitat perhaps?
these people are not doing a good thing for the animals,
or for society. These animals are not well taken care of, and I am quite surprised that they have survived at all. It is infuriating to see nothing becoming of all yours and all like minded individuals actions, why is this place not shut down!
thank you for helping bring awareness to this,
I strongly support your fight for the safety of these animals and wish you all the luck!

- Brad W

Thank you for your kind words, Brad. I don't understand it either, it's very frusturating. The Government has more then enough against them, to act...they just need to realize that the public WANTS them to act. Please take the time to write to the Minister of SRD to tell him what you think!

Take care,

Devon

"...what you do unto your brethren, you do unto God..." April 12, 2007

2007-04-12T02:42:00.000-06:00

You are running a prison for profit. Don't believe in hell? What you do unto your brethen, you do unto God, (and shall be done unto you!!!!!!)

-Anonymous

Amen!

"...Your fate is determined by your actions" April 12, 2007

2007-04-12T02:30:00.000-06:00

This news is already old. But if the animals you own still do not have proper shielding from the weather, are left unfeed w/o water, or feed unfit, unatural foods, cramped inside cages, YOU ARE DOING EVIL. Your fate is determined by your actions.

-Anonymous

This fight has been going on for a long time, but we must not look at this as "Old News". The Government needs constant pressure, not just surges brought on by publicity. Guzoo is still operating in the same manner as they have for over a decade. I encourage you to look at our new photographs, taken on April 22 2007.

http://www.theguzoo.com/samesadstory.html

-Devon

"...you guys are so far left as to lie" April 12 , 2007

2007-04-12T02:12:00.000-06:00

I am a vegetarian and have been my whole life. I have more respect for animals than I do humans. I say this to give you a base upon which to take criticism. First of all, no living creature should live in a cage. I have iguanas, free roaming and potty trained. However, for the sake of some lives, many animals are displaced adnd it is our responsiblility to take care of them. And yes, some will live in less than best circumstances; but always better off than what they were. However the betterment of their life should always of the best interest. I found about Guzoo and there are many wrongdoings, but the pictures have only led me to realize that you guys are so far left as to lie. There are only about 5 wrong doings that I saw. Just like PETA, when you go out left field like that, nobody takes yo seriously. Stick to whats important: clean water (algae free and clear), healthy (mold free and potentially disease free) food, ample space, and interaction and companionshipl ( and this does not mean humans).

-Anonymous

Your letter sounded reasonable up until this point "....And yes, some will live in less than best circumstances; but always better off than what they were" If you are implying that Guzoo is in fact a sanctuary for some of these animals, then you are sadly mistaken. Many of these animals have been bred into these conditions by the Gustafsons themselves, and going from a life of neglect and abuse to a life of solitary confinement, filth, disease, and lack of stimulation isn't considered "rescuing" an animal. It is merely moving an animal from one bad situation to another; these animals need to be rescued from their supposed rescuer.

After that point, your letter trails off into utter nonsense. This is not a 'Left' or 'Right' issue. This has nothing to do with politics. This comes down to whether or not you beleive that these animals deserve better. It comes down to whether or not you beleive that they are capable of suffering and that they are indeed in a state of suffering at this very moment. You either feel empathy for these animals, or you don't. Your political beleifs have nothing to do with it.

I find it difficult to understand how you could possibly have looked at those pictures and still have come away with the beleif that these animals are being provided with healthy food, clean water, ample space, and companionship. They are also being denied a clean environment, proper shelter from the elements, and appropriate enrichment and stimulation. The photos show the algae in the water, the filth in the cages, the moldy food in the freezers...the tiny enclosures, and lack of appropriate diets...and feel free to look at our most recent photos, showing more of the same, including the solitary confinement of multiple monkeys. Guzoo doesn't even live up to your basic standards.

The last relevant correspondance between Joanna and I, took place Originally in October of 2006.

2007-03-28T00:56:00.000-06:00

Finally, a reply from Joanna, or "Grannysmith" as she likes to call herself.

Well Hello again Devon. No, no, no, definitely not sick, just busy caring for my numerous animals and helping with Guzoo's annual fundraiser. You can laugh if you like, but it was a bit of a flop. No $10,000 this year.

I was talking to my friend Ruth, she says you never replied to her second email. Maybe you could indulge her too. We lead a boring life you know, us zoo advocates, and its hard to debate with each other when we are both on the same side.

I would think caring for your animals wouldn't take that much time, seeing as you don't see the need to provide them with clean cages, proper diet, and stimulation. I replied to Ruth but neglected to send the reply directly to her, it has been posted on my website for some time. I recently moved all mail onto a blog so it's easier to navigate.

So, you think my emails are predictable? Hmmm have to do something about that.

Sorry, but I'm going to pull your comments apart.

Very Unlikely...

The text on my website consists of completely true and proveable facts compiled by experts comissioned by WSPA and Zoocheck as well as experts from the organization themselves. The pictures are from 2003-2005, which is quite recent, especially since The Guzoo has barely changed since it opened...barely anything changed from year to year, when I visited.

The folks from WSPA and Zoocheck may well be experts in something, but they're not experts on zoo animals. Julie Woodyer is an accountant. Laidlaw used to be a dog catcher, Clio Smeeton, raises swift foxes, Sian Waters may have a small amount of knowledge, but she's not an expert, and Samantha Scott is a vet. All these people, and their cronies are SELF APPOINTED zoo critics. They do not like zoos and their aim is to close as many zoos as they can.

Your breif overview of the main members of WSPA and Zoocheck is pretty ridiculous....a person is capable of having acheived much more then one thing in their lifetime. You sure are making them sound like a bunch of losers.

Julie Woodyer is an accountant. Is that all? No, she she also used to work for the Ontario SPCA as a cruelty investigator...so she obviously has some knowledge in the area of recognizing neglect and innapropriate environments. To become a cruelty investigator you have to go through extensive training.

I don't know much about Rob Laidlaws background, but he didn't write any of the Guzoo Reports, he is a Project Manager...so his background with actual animal care isn't really relative to this. He has a large amount of knowledge on the requirements of zoo animals, however...which is obvious in this article he wrote: http://zoocheck.com/programs/zoocheck/evaluating.shtml

Clio Smeeton does indeed raise swift foxes. You make it sound as if that's the equivalent of breeding the domestic dog... She has the largest breeding collection (20 pairs) of endangered swift foxes in the world. She is the President of the Cochrane Ecological Institute started by her parents 35 years ago and has reintroduced hundreds of foxes back into Alberta's prairies. Not only that, the CEI is also a very busy wildlife rehabilitation facility, with facilities for animals on site. They sport a 3 1/2 treed bear enclosure and have rescued, raised, and released multiple bears. They have rescued, raised and released many deer, moose, skunks, otters, badgers, birds, waterfowl, martens, mink, weasels, coyote, elk, bison, owls, and more. They dedicate 160 fenced, completely natural and completely untouched acres to these animals. They have a 60'x40'x25' aviary and 14 Department of Agriculture approved quarantine pens. They are a world renowned facility, that has been open for longer then even Guzoo.

I'm not sure how you can say that Sian Waters only has a small amount of knowledge...she is most definitley an expert, especially when compared to Mr.Gustafson. What is his experience? Dairy farming, and running the worst rated zoo in Alberta. Sian Waters has years of experience.

-She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University College of North Wales and her Master of Philosphy from the Biological Department of the University College of Swansea.

-She is the former Scientific Officer of the Bristol Zoo Gardens ( http://www.bristolzoo.org.uk) where she was in charge of the care of the mammals, and managed 16 staff.

-She was Chair of the Primate Society of Great Britain. ( http://www.psgb.org/index.html) Started in 1967, the PSGB is dedicated to the research of primate conservation, biology, and captive management. They have set up the Captive Care Working Party, which exclusivley researches all aspects of captive care, including breeding and laboratory use.

-She was Chair of the of the European Tapir and Hippo Taxon Advisory Group, which is dedicated to restoring and conserving Tapir and Hippo populations.

-She was a Core member of the UK Zoo Research Group, as well as a consultant to zoos in Belize, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.

-Prior to her work at the Bristol Zoo Gardens, she was the mammal curator at the Bioparco S.P.A (formely the Rome Zoo) in Italy where she helped develop animal managment, enrichment and husbandry programs as well as workshops for Keepers.

-She is a consultant to the WWF regarding their project database for large carnivores.

You say "Samantha Scott is a vet" as if that means nothing and is not relevant. In order to become a vet, Samantha Scott had to obtain her B.V.Sc (Bachelor of Veterinary Science) which requires that the following be completed:

5.1 First Part

Anatomy I
Physiology I
Biochemistry
Animal Management

5.2 Second Part

Anatomy II
Physiology II
Integrated DSE
Animal Health & Husbandry
Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Parasitology & Environmental Science

5.3 Third Part

Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Microbiology
Pathology
Clinical Veterinary Science I (Farm Animal Science including Reproduction)
Basic Clinical Science
Veterinary Public Health
Clinical Veterinary Science II (Companion Animal Science)

5.4 Fourth Part

Pathology
Veterinary Public Health
Clinical Veterinary Science I (Farm Animal Science including Reproduction)
Clinical Veterinary Science II (Companion Animal Science)

5.5 Final Part

Veterinary Public Health
Clinical Veterinary Science I (Farm Animal Science including Reproduction)
Clinical Veterinary Science II (Companion Animal Science).

She is also a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons ( http://www.rcvs.org.uk) a regulatory body for veterinary surgeons in the UK. Their role, as stated on their website, is this:

To safeguard the health and welfare of animals committed to veterinary care through the regulation of the educational, ethical and clinical standards of the veterinary profession, thereby protecting the interests of those dependent on animals and assuring public health.
To act as an impartial source of informed opinion on animal health and welfare issues and their interaction with human health.

Dr. Samantha Scott is also an Honorary Fellow at the Edinburgh University and Honorary Clinical Lecturer at Glasgow University Veterinary School where she lectures in ethology and animal behaviour. She lectures and writes to veterinarians, nurses, and welfare organizations about behaviour, clinically related problems and the welfare of animals in captivity.

I'm not sure what more you could want as far as expertise goes. Many of those experts do not have the anti-zoo bias you speak of.

Actually, Guzoo has changed a lot over the last couple of years. Many of the animals have new enclosures, there is a new perimeter fence, landscaping, a new Canadian exhibits area is currently under construction and there are plans for a new lion pen.

It's still crappy enough that it didn't pass inspections in 2005, and still crappy enough to prompt complaints from the public to animal welfare groups. A permiter fence is great, but doesn't benefit the welfare of the animals much, nor does out of cage landscaping. Guzoo may be changing but there is no sign that it is for the better, and I have no idea what the "Canadian exhibits area" or the "new lion pen" are going to be like, so I cannot judge them.

Everyone that knows Guzoo is apparantly blind then. The pictures taken do not lie. I did not go into Guzoo, freeze and overturn water, strew garbage and feces, and take pictures. I took pictures of what I saw, and that cannot be refuted.

When you visited Guzoo it was winter. In winter in Alberta water freezes very quickly. Many animals will overturn their water dishes after they have had a drink, this is frustrating for the human carer, but the animal DOES NOT GIVE TWO HOOTS. No, he doesn't care a bit, he or she gets a great kick out of tipping the water dish over. As far as feces is concerned, don't you know how important feces is to animals? Many animals will pee and poop on their food. Unlike humans they don't consider this as disgusting but as a warning to others that "this is mine, get your own." Pee and poop also marks the animals territory. If a human interferes and keeps removing it, the poor critter just has to keep on pooping! The garbage I don't know about, maybe it had been a windy day and it had blown about.

First off, I have visited Guzoo in the Winter once, once in the fall, and once on a hot day in the summer.

Second, Dog owners in Edmonton and Calgary are required to provide a source of water during the winter that will not freeze, either by providing the water to the animal in a heated shelter or providing the animal with either a trough with a livestock trough heater, or a heated water dish. As a zoo, your main concern should be providing the basics for your animals, one of which is a constant source of fresh water. Yes, the Alberta winter freezes water very quickly but it is your responsibility to overcome that and problem and provide a solution. Dog owners have to do it....you would expect a zoo to do it too.

It is also your responsibility to provide the animals with a source of water that CANNOT be tipped, such as waterbottles, livestock troughs, stock tanks, or coming up with a way to otherwise secure the water sources. I have many animals, and have had to overcome problems like that myself. Gerbils tip water dishes, so I provided a water bottle. Dogs tip buckets, so we provide a large dish with "non-tip" sides. The iguana liked to whip his dish off of his shelf, so I secured it with Quick-Links used in bird toys. Just use your imagination!

Your excuse for the filth at Guzoo is hilarious and a poor attempt at justifying the conditions at the Zoo. The vast majority of animals that use urine or pheremones to mark their territory leave what are called "Scent Posts" at prominent areas on the perimeter of their territory. They do not defecate all over their territorys...in the wild, waste just decomposes before it can ever pile up. In small zoo enclosures, feces quickly pile up...they are not for marking territory, but the final stage of digestion! Most animals make an attempt to eat a distance away from where they urinate and defecate, and don't want to walk through and live in their own waste. This is exhibited in different ways depending on the animal.

As far as defecating and urinating on food, that is not a behaviour exhibited in the vast majority of animals. Mice do, voles and some groundsquirrels do, some other rodents do as well...but I cannot find any instance of any other animals displaying this behaviour.As you made the claim, you have the burden of proof, so I expect to see some proof of this occuring in other animals, from credible sources.

As I said, my facts were compiled from research and expert opinions from WSPA and Zoocheck. Every peice of information those groups publicly release is true and proveable.

Sorry, but every peice of information they release is biased because they want to find fault. They do not like zoos. It is their opinion that all zoos are bad.

If you read the reports on other zoos in Alberta, they mention many positive aspects of the zoos. The only reason Guzoo didn't get any compliments is because there were none to give. The expert they commissioned, as I said previously, were not biased. \

I am not an animal proffesional, nor am I an expert. Thanks for catching my mistake! I always get those breeds mixed up. Obviously that small mistake completely discredits everything else on my site.....or not.

I definitley didn't confuse a climbing structure with a shelter however. The "climbing structures" you speak of were often the only thing inside of the cage...no actual shelter to speak of! An example of that is the new guinea singing dog enclosure, with the log/board "climbing structure". That was the only thing they could hide under, therefore it was their only shelter.

Actually it was Clio Smeeton and Sian Waters that I was refering to here, not you. If you read the report of their visit (way back in 2001) you will see that in the very first paragraph they say, "Mr Gustafson was surrounded by dogs (beagles)". Now if I were claiming to be an expert on something I would make sure I got my facts straight before I released them publicly. It would have taken them two minutes to check either online or in a dog breed book, but instead they just assumed they were correct. This one small statement discredits the whole of their report, not, as you thought, your website.

It most definitley doesn't discredit the rest of their report. They are not experts in dog breeds, nor was that a vital peice of information. The mislabeling of a breed of dog is a silly mistake but does not make the rest of the report, citing horrendous neglect at Guzoo, untrue. They were there to inspect the condition of the zoo. The breed of dog that escorted them throughout the zoo is of little importance.

As far as the climbing structure in the mouflon sheep pen is concerned though, you are mistaken. You see, these are mouflon sheep, their natural habitat is a mountainside, where the only shelter they may get is the side of a rock if they're lucky. They actually do not need a shelter, they would not use one if it were provided. All they need is a windbreak, and that they have, on the north side of the paddock.

Good to know. If Guzoo did it's job as an educational facility and posted signs on the enclosures regarding the animals natural history and status in the wild. If these sheep naturally live on steep terrain, why is there no effort to recreate that within their enclosure?

I came home COVERED in fleas every time I went there. A friend in Calgary brought home some cats and ended up having all of them die, including her own, from distemper. Even if there wasn't any obvious diseases present, it should definitley still be practice for the public to either not touch their animals, or wash their hands between each. This is common sense, as diseases ARE easily passed through human contact. This is why at bird or reptile shows, you have to disinfect between tables, and at the Humane Society you have to disinfect between each animal as well.

Are you sure you were "covered" in fleas? I find this very hard to believe. I have been in the pens with the cats and dogs at Guzoo dozens of times and I have never found a flea on me. Animal fleas do not normally jump onto humans unless they are very, very, hungry and with the number of animals at Guzoo I can't see them ever getting hungry enough to jump on you. I have also handled the domestic pets at Guzoo then come home and handled my own pets. Over the last 10 years not a single one of my animals has ever got sick or got fleas from me doing this.

I realize that fleas don't often jump onto humans which is why I was surprised as well. I had been holding the basset hounds on my lap and afterwards we left, and had to stop to remove the fleas from the car. This is pointless to debate however as neither of us has any hard evidence to back up either of our statements.

I don't know how long ago your friend got the cats with distemper, but I do know that a while ago distemper was very virulent in this area. During the outbreak Guzoo did not take in any new cats. Did the cats look sick when your friend took them? If they didn't then they must have still been incubating the disease. If they did look sick then your friend was silly to take them.

There are signs all oiver Guzoo telling people to wash their hands after handling animals. If people ignore these signs that's their problem not Guzoo's

I do not know the details of the cats condition, however, cats if Guzoo gave their animals vaccinations, Distemper wouldn't be as much of an issue.

I would have loved to have hand sanitizer while I was there ,the place was flithy. It should be available at every singe cage where human/animal contact is allowed. Not having it present puts the animals at risk as well as the health of the humans involved. The Humane Society requires you to sanitize your hands between handling each cat and dog, and reptile and bird shows require you to sanitize your hands between each table. If there is hand sanitizer at the zoo now, then kudos. But there wasn't any there when I visited.

I'm not sure how long sanitizer has been available, but it is there now. I personally (this is my opinion here, nothing to do with Guzoo) think the hand sanitizer is a dumb idea because it gives people a false sense of protection. Hand sanitizers do not significantly reduce the number of bacteria on the hands and in some cases may potentially increase the amount of bacteria on the hands. Sanitizer is not as effective as hand washing with soap and water, but many visitors to Guzoo assume it is, so use it as a substitute for proper hand washing.

Hand sanitizers are effective enough that the SPCA requires to use them between each animal, the hospital requires you to use it before you visit patients with weak immune systems, and the reptile society requires you to disinfect your hands each time. The only sinks I saw at Guzoo with soap to wash your hands was in the bathroom, do you really think people are going to run back and forth from the bathroom to the animals?

People were walking in without paying. There were NO staff in the lion and tiger cub cage while I was there. Nobody had uniforms or name tags, so you can't tell who works there anyway, and half the time you have to go up to the house to find them. THis is extremely irresponsible. Anything could happen to those animals while they're in their house and not paying attention. They should hire a staff so that every part of the zoo is supervised, it only makes sense. If you look at the timeline, there are mutliple complaints regaurding the lack of staff presence and as I said, all statements by Zoocheck and WSPA are proveable.

If people walk in without paying who's problem is it? Yours? Zoocheck's? or Guzoo's? How are the animals affected if one or two people don't pay?

It proves my point that the supervision at Guzoo is inadequate.

The lion and tiger pens, as well as all the others are now kept padlocked. I don't know exactly when this policy was instigated, obviously some time since your visit.

Good Job, how long did that take? Since 1992?

I can't believe you are concerned about uniforms and name tags. How does this affect the animals? It doesn't. All the staff at Guzoo have sweatshirts with "Guzoo staff" emblazened across the back. When you visited it was winter, do you think maybe they were wearing coats over their sweatshirts?

As I have already said, I have been to Guzoo three times and have not seen any Guzoo Staff sweatshirts, even in the summer, or fall. They must be new, and I'll beleive it when I see it. Being able to identify staff is obviously a nessecity...what if someone is injured? What if an animal is injured or has escaped? How would a guest know who to turn to for assitance? If you were in a retail store and could not identify the staff, how would you know who to talk to?

I agree that the Gustafson family retreat to their house for lunch, supper, coffee, whatever. Surely, the average visitor can look after themselves for half an hour or so, can't they? Its called self responsibility. Anyone who is capable of getting into a vehicle and driving to Three Hills (navigating, negotiating traffic etc.) is capable of looking at a few animals without supervision. I wouldn't call it irresponsible, I'd call it economics.

Wow, how naive of you. Every single day we see incidents of people with NO self responsibility. Rapists, murderers, child abusers, ANIMAL ABUSERS, VANDALS, THEIFS, the latter three you ought to be VERY concerned about. Do you not watch the news? Read the paper? The vast majority of these people can drive cars too. People do sick things for no reason, and if you want me too, I can find you many instances in which zoo animals have been victimized by visitors at other facilities.

I did my own personal investigations into the conditions of Guzoo, and I still beleive what I beleive. All information I posted on that site IS fact and it IS proveable and it has already been released to the public elsewhere.

Well done for doing your own investigation, but as you admitted yourself you are not an expert. Just because something is published and released to the public does not make it fact.

I have done huge amounts of research into the care of exotic animals and even from that, and by referencing Albert Zoo Regulations, I can easily recognize flaws in the care of Guzoo's animals. It is not difficult for even a normal person with absolutley no knowledge of exotic animals to realize that dilapitated shelters, rotten food, filthy cages, and empty water dishes do not equal a good, credible zoo.

If you don't care much about animal welfare and prefer the opportunity to cuddle with animals and treat them like pets, then sure, Guzoo is awesome. But if you actually care about the animals in the situation, it is most definitley not the best....it's the worst in Alberta, according to experienced zoo experts and zoo reviews.

Yes Devon, I care very much about animal welfare, but animals are animals, they are not little people in fur coats. Making it look good for the visitors doesn't do a darn thing for the animals. The animals don't care. They don't give a shit. They do not have human emotions, reactions or reasoning skills. They don't care if the cage isn't pretty, they don't care whether or not there is a sign telling people what species they are or where they originate from. They don't care if they walk in their own excrement. They don't care if it rains. Their main concern is having enough food in their belly, and, I know you don't think the feeding regime is appropriate, but no animal at Guzoo ever goes hungry.

I feel that this paragraph very clearly represents why the animals at Guzoo are iin the state they are in now. You do not recognize them as intelligent, sentient beings. They obviously have emotions, which is clear to even those that just keep dogs and are not closeminded redneck hicks. They don't have reactions? No reasoning skills? Have you even interacted with an animal? I cannot beleive you can say that after being around all of those animals for so long. It is no wonder you can treat them so horribly, when you think of them as nothing more then moving, purely instinctual, non feeling lumps.

Also, the signage issue is for the public. With no effort to educate the public, Guzoo is merely a sideshow.

That's all I have to say for you to now. I don't think I'll take you up on the Vegan debate, I have much, much better things to do.

Devon.

"...how do you expect anyone to take you seriously?" March 25, 2007

2007-03-25T00:11:00.000-06:00

I was really hoping for some intelligent, debatable counter arguments from Joanna Carter (Granny Smith) at Guzoo. Unfortunately, she must have seen my last reply and was unable to neither defend nor debate it, so she decided to go on a desperate Googling spree in order to "dig up the dirt". Unfortunately for her, most of what she says is either untrue, or something I have never hidden and am in fact proud of! I refuse to follow along and allow her to divert the attention from herself and The Guzoo, so this is the only post I will be making in regards to this conversation. I will resurrect my last relevant email to Joanna, to give her yet another chance to reply.

Here we go!

Well hello again Devon, My sincerest apologies for making you wait for a reply. I'm really more than a little disappointed in you. Are you practicing to be the Canadian Ingrid Newkirk? You certainly seem to have a few of her traits.

Haha, wow, Joanna, you sure did some digging! I love how you took so much out of context, and dove deep into the world of teenage networking websites; it sure shows your desperation. Are you going to get a myspace and a livejournal now? Anyways, I am going to only respond to this once, as it is a diversion tactic you've turned to in desperation, unable to respond intelligently to my last email. If I keep this conversation going, I will only be contributing to your diversion, and will help take the attention off of YOU, the real problem here.

1) You are mentally unstable - "my brain exploded" "But even I am a serious mental f**k up"
If I was really so "mentally unstable", would I be capable of sitting here and writing cohesive sentences, with a relatively good vocabulary? Would I be able to conduct the research I have done, and the work I do on a day to day basis? You took those two word quotes from a paragraph and piece of writing that is full of sarcasm, exaggeration, and a very deliberate mood of frustration and anger. I really hope you don't take everything you read this literally! I have gone through some depression in my life, some anxiety problems, resulting in a break from school which I have now ended. But....if I had explained it like that, it wouldn't have provided you with such an entertaining read!

2) You own animals whilst denying that right to others on the grounds that other people cannot look after them as well as you do. - I counted 55 species on your latest list on Nexopia.

The animals we "own" are not Lions, Tigers, Bears, Monkeys, and other large wild animals...our animals include small rodents, 3-8 inch lizards, snakes, birds, tarantulas, guinea pigs...in other words...small animals that don't require large enclosures. They are all animals that are within the pet trade, and most of them are rescues or were given to us, unwanted by their owners. Our family operates a small rescue for small domestic and exotic animals. We also have 2 dogs and a cat. I'm sure that even you can see the difference between those animals and the likes of big cats, primates, and wolves, right? All of our animals are kept in very clean conditions and provided with high quality food, appropriate enrichment and stimulation, and appropriate habitats....unlike Guzoos.

3) You condemn another for violating the law whilst you yourself violate the law - "I just got three male rats" yet you live in Alberta where the keeping of pet rats is prohibited by law.

Where did you find that quote? We "just got three male rats" more then six years ago. We brought them home prior to our knowledge of the law, and have since been visited by Fish and Wildlife. Fortunately, they were three years to late, and our rats were long gone. It was an easy mistake to make, and it's been a non-issue now for a few years. Unlike you, we actually learn from our mistakes!

4) You condemn others for allowing animals to breed whilst doing the same yourself - "I have been breeding mongolian gerbils for more then six years." "I have bred many finches,"

Where are you pulling these from? My nexopia profile hasn't said that for a LONG time. I am 18, my opinions have changed, and I have grown over time. My parents started breeding gerbils to feed our snake when I was just a kid, and I continued to do so as well. Unlike dogs, cats, and rabbits, they are not overpopulated and filling the shelters. However, as my beliefs changed, I began to question myself and decided to stop breeding gerbils. As for finches? I have never purposely bred finches. My parents allowed our pet finches to hatch an egg when I was six or so, but are we really digging back so deep into the past, into a time when I didn't even choose my own clothes in the morning? We have had local pet store employees surrender finches with eggs to our rescue, and because we didn't know how far along in development they were, we allowed them to hatch. We currently have a flock of zebra finches that lays eggs, and we destroy them. We have had many pregnant animals surrendered to us, so I do have experience with raising baby animals…but, I’ve never bred animals for profit, and aside from the gerbils, I’ve never purposely bred an animal.

5) You dislike the human race - "During your childhood you are basically a parasite to the earth." "high school aged students are materialistic obnoxious stress inducing f**k ups"

Again, you are taking fragmented sentences out of context, a common tactic used by slanderers. The entire piece of writing you are taking this out of is about how I believe that people should try to give back to their community and to society because if all we do is consume, and do nothing to give back, then soon we will have nothing left. Every decision we make, the consequences have an impact on someone or something around us, even if it's not obvious to us immediately. My reference to humans being a parasite or disease is actually taken from The Matrix...

"I'd like to share a revelation that I've had during my time here. It came to me when I tried to classify your species, and I realized that humans are not actually mammals. Every mammal on this planet instinctively develops a natural equilibrium with the surrounding environment; but you humans do not. Instead you multiply, and multiply, until every resource is consumed. The only way for you to survive is to spread to another area. There is another organism on this planet that follows the same pattern... a virus. Human beings are a disease, a cancer on this planet, you are a plague, and we... are the cure.

So, don't blame me, blame Agent Smith.

And...I said that MOST high school students are “materialistic obnoxious stress inducing f*ck ups”...not All as your fragmented quote would apply. That would be absurd! But really, from the eyes of another high school aged student...it's true. I don't hate them, not in the least...for most, it's just a stage. But if you go to a city transit station while kids are one their way home from school, and witness the fights and taunting initiated by students for the pettiest of reasons, you would probably feel the same way.

Also, to say I hate humans is ridiculous. On the exact same page, I state that I am a human rights activist, and I talk about the plight of the African continent. I state that I am an activist for the oppressed people of the world and that I believe in community, helping others, and recognizing that everything you do has an impact on others.

I will take this opportunity to plug my favorite local band, the Eleutheros. Their lyrics from their song 'Poison Legacy of Mankind'

Don’t worry ‘bout a thing just kill your conscience with TV
The government will take care of you with their false sincerity
Keep consuming and decomposing with every breath you take
Forget that with everything you buy there’s someone’s life at stake
After your mind is dead make sure you kill your children’s future too
Our progressive society likes to rape the Earth with everything we do
And at the end of the day lay down for sleep on your nice big comfy bed
and dream of how you’re the walking grave of the murdered animals you’re fed

What makes your mind believe that it’s true?
What makes you live the way that you do?
What will it take until you change too?
And what is a life to you?

Don’t think to change Don’t think to grow
Just close your eyes and get in line
There are so many others just like you
Fearful of the pointless measurement of time
Focus on the little things that keep your intelligence at bay
And the ones who tell you there’s more to life
Just ignore what they say
Morality is just a word but cheese and money taste so good
Now go to church and go to school just like a good drone should
Stand up tall and sing your country’s national anthem loud with pride
Shed a tear for the fallen soldiers and for who and why they died

Now kiss this stolen land you love so much and that you help to kill
And drink the water and air we poison and make sure you get your fill
Because before you die you must teach your children the way in which we live
And they will see how fortunate they are when it is to them the Earth you give.- http://www.myspace.com/eleutheros

6) You dislike yourself, - "I'm a very angry person"

Since when does anger translate into self-hate? I do not hate myself. I am indeed an angry person. There is a lot to be angry about. Anger is energy and you need energy to get things done. I was raised to question authority, to make decisions for myself and to FIGHT when I see injustice. And that's what I intend to do.

7) You act on misinformation - "Buy products that are not harmful to this environment"

Huh? I really don't understand what your point is here.... What's wrong with pushing products that have been produced in an eco-friendly manner?

8) You support ALF.

They get things done, what can I say? You would be amazed at how many emails I get regarding Guzoo, and how many people want to go ALF on your ass....but, I don't post them, because I don't want to give you an opportunity to accuse me of plotting against you, encouraging "terrorism", etc. I don't support all of what ALF has done, nor do I partake in or donate money to such actions...however, when I hear of animal welfare violations being exposed to the public due to an ALF activity, a previously tortured animal being given a chance to live out it's life, or a company that makes its' money off of the torture of animals getting stuck with a bit of financial damage, I can't help but feel a bit victorious for the animals. However, everyone that knows me personally knows that I an able to discern between cruel practices involving captive animals and acceptable, and even beneficial situations involving captive animals.

While we are on the topic, lets get all of the other scandalous information out of the way:

-I don’t eat meat, and I don’t think others should either, unless circumstances require it.

-I support Greenpeace!

-I support Oxfam!

-I am….a left winger!

-I don’t love Alberta beef!

-I am agnostic.

-I am an animal rights activist.

-I am an environmentalist.

-I am a human rights activist.

9) You repeat the same old mantra and never update your material.

If I repeat the same thing over and over again, then why won't it sink in to your head, and the heads of your supporters? Obviously it needs a little more repeating! I “update my material” as information becomes available and ask more pictures and videos are submitted. Stay tuned for a high quality video, with sound!

10) You exaggerate - “I came home COVERED in fleas every time I went there."

Yes, that was a bit of an exaggeration…but considering the fact that I have been to dozens of zoos and petting zoos and have NEVER encountered fleas, especially not within Alberta where fleas aren’t very common. When I ran my hands backwards along the dogs at Guzoo, I could see fleas jumping. When I left, we had to stop the car to pull fleas from our hair and clothes. I guess the word “covered” makes it sound as if my skin was completely crawling with thousands of fleas, which is of course, untrue....but there were fleas in my clothes, hair, shoes…it definitely felt as if I was “covered”.

11)You lie - "We have never bred budgies, finches, or any other animal."

I suppose that does sound like a lie…I admit that I should have gone into more depth there…but, I assure you that I avoid lying at all costs. It only makes things more difficult, and really isn’t good for ones mental well being. See my Answer to question number four for more…

12)You claim to advocate on behalf of animals, claiming they should lead more natural lives instead of being held captive in zoos yet at the same time advocate to alter captive animals either chemically or surgically, the result of which will deny them the fulfilment of their most basic instinct, that being the drive to reproduce, to pass their genes on to the next generation.

Hey, now you sound like the insane animal rights activist! Not even Ingrid Newkirk is against spaying and neutering your pets.

If you are so adamant about allowing animals to live naturally and fulfill their basic instincts, then why do you deny them the ability to live a natural life and carry out all OTHER natural instincts and behaviors? The Guzoo does not provide sufficient enrichment, stimulation, cage sizes, social structures…all of which are critical to an animals well being in captivity. You claim to have a higher moral standard then I, graciously allowing animals to fulfill their reproduction desires…yet deny them most other natural desires. Allowing these animals to reproduce allows you to take them from their mothers (how natural is that?) then hand raise them, in order to sell them. You don’t allow your animals to breed because you feel morally wrong NOT allowing them too; you allow them to breed so that you can make a quick buck off of them.

Then they too are destined to live a life of monotony in captivity in completely unnatural conditions…accept of course, the ability to reproduce…

As for cats and dogs, in this day and age of extreme over population, to not spay or neuter your pet is EXTREMELY irresponsible. Over 8 million cats and dogs are euthanized in North America EVERY YEAR, merely due to the fact that there are NOT ENOUGH HOMES. You must weigh the pros and cons here, you can’t just close your eyes to the fact that there are to many cats and dogs and not enough homes. We can’t just keep sending them to the shelters to be euthanized, they are not disposable.

I recommend this video to you:

Part One: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-S-FeR0YwY

Part Two: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bpDE6Vx_QU

13)You want to control other people's lives, you think people should live by YOUR rules because you know what's good for them.

Um, No…in regards to Guzoo, I want:

· An immediate ban on breeding and acquiring animals.

· The zoo must abide by all permit and zoo regulations in the province of Alberta.

· The zoo must take the advice given by professionals that have more education and experience in the area of captive animal care, accepting that they have a lot to learn.

· Downsize the collection of animals drastically by re-homing them in accredited and respectable sanctuaries and zoos. Focus solely on perfecting the habitats and care of the remaining animals. A small well kept collection is much more impressive then a large neglected collection.

· Bring all remaining enclosures up to the highest of standards.

I don’t have “rules” for people to follow, I just ask people to consider the impact that their day to day decisions have upon others around them. I ask the Gustafsons to make an effort in improving their facility for the GOOD OF THE ANIMALS. And this isn’t just my opinion, as you very well know.

ANYWAYS, this is all pretty ridiculous. You are trying to divert attention from the VERY REAL issues I brought up and confronted you with in my last email to you. I will not participate any further in this diversion tactic, though I will post your reply in the comments section of the blog entry. I am going to copy, paste, and repost my last relevant email to you, so that you can tackle that if you feel up to the challenge.

"...I've been appalled at the horrible conditions of the animals." March 21, 2007

2007-03-21T00:46:00.000-06:00

I have visited approximately 22 different zoos and aquariums, and have admired the quality facilities at the San Diego Zoo, Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, and some of the newer enclosures at Colorado's Denver Zoo. After seeing the terrible conditions at the roadside set of cages called "Guzoo" I've been appalled at the horrible conditions of the animals. Over the years I've read reports at zoocheck.com and have heard of this awful little Alberta zoo...but why on earth is it still operating? What's the latest scoop? How can public officials honestly decide to allow the Gustafsons an operating license? Thank you for your work.

-Scott R.

...they are refuting proven scientific facts: arrogant people." March 11th, 2007

2007-03-11T00:48:00.000-07:00

Here's a conversation I had with Irene Gustafson. I thought you might find it interesting. She gets very defensive and is quite snide in her remarks, even though I tried to keep my calm and be patient with her. Its obvious the Gustafsons know nothing about the biology of theiranimals, or even the basics about health and hygiene. I am a marinebiology student, so I know a bit about this stuff and her "I feel much more research needs to be done into disease transmission" and "my family and I should all have died of bird flu years ago" arguments show just how little they know. They are refuting proven scientific facts: arrogant people. Now I'm not saying you need to have a pHd in biology to do what they do, I just think one should educate themselves a bit when dealing with precious living creatures and how to PROPERLY care for them. Those people just make me sick.

-Sabrina

To read Sabrina's Correspondance with Irene Gustafson, please visit the following link:

DANGER! Public Health Concerns at Guzoo!

"I feel so saddened that this is allowed to continue..." Febuary 6, 2007

2007-02-06T23:01:00.000-07:00

I feel so saddened that this is allowed to continue. It makes me extremely mad and frustrated at our stupid government for allowing this to go on. Have they not seen enough pain and suffering over the last 10 years or so?! I would like to help in any way I can to close down the Guzoo Animal Farm. I also want you to know that I don't particularly like any zoo, even if it is a "good" one as I don't think any wild animal should be in any kind of captivity, unless it is to save the species and then reintroduce them to the wild. I don't like any circus as I have seen the hidden videos of the abuse those animals go through everyday, for the entertainment of people. I think so many people must think that animals are just things and not real, and can't feel sad or angry or hurt or lonely or in pain. It's just so sad. I know I am only one person, and in the eyes of the government, I am no one important, but I would like to help out in any way I can. For this cause or any other animal cause that needs attention and help. Please let me know!

-Tammy K.
Calgary, Alberta

"...I am just floored at what I am seeing..." December 17, 2006

2006-12-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

I was surfing the net and found your site on this so called zoo...I am just floored at what I am seeing. Is this place actually still running? if it is has anyone contacted the local media? I just gave up an animal control possition recently in which a dog collectors property was exposed by the local media....this forced the spca and our office to respond....it is always the best to shine the light of the media on these situations. Let me know what I can do to help...

-Jody

Hi Jody,

Unfortunatley, Guzoo has been in the media for years. Right now, it is completely up to the government to make a move and enforce and improve the current laws. Write your MP and tell him/her how you feel, and that you want to see something done about it.

"I apologize to you beautiful little lions cubs..." December 12, 2006

2006-12-12T22:31:00.000-07:00

This nauseating drivel is in reply to an update I made in response to Guzoo's addition of two lion cubs:

Guzoo has New Lions

As read on the Guzoo Blog...

"Wallace, our aging male has done it again. He proudly struts around his enclosure to announce the arrival of his three new babies. They were born a week ago, and we will leave them with their mother for another two weeks."

I just want to offer my sincere condolences to these baby lions. I'm sorry that you are going to grow up into lives of boredom, filth, and small prisons. I'm sorry that, after the fun of growing up and being a cub, you're going to realize that the ones you thought loved you, don't love you enough to give you everything you need. I'm sorry that you're going to be confined to small, barren cages, possibly alone, or with another species. I'm sorry that you might be auctioned off, or sold to another zoo, to a private owner, or to some guy who hauls you around the country in a moving truck for photo shoots in malls. I'm sorry that you three gorgeous, powerful animals are going to be reduced to mere sources of amusement, disgraced and exploited. I'm sorry that you'll never experience the life you were meant to.

I hope that one day, these animals end up somewhere where they can actually live and not merely exist.

Guzoo has New Lions

I apologize to you beautiful little lions cubs for the fact that your wild counterparts in Africa and Asia will not be as lucky as you are. I apologize that your distant relatives must fight everyday of their lives to survive. I apologize that they must roam hundreds of miles a week in search of food. I apologize that when wild lions find prey, they successfully make a kill only one out of ten tries. I apologize that while the adult cats try and fail to bring down dinner their cubs often starve to death.. You are fortunate, you have all your food and water provided to you daily, you will never know hunger or thirst. I apologize that your wild counterparts are dying of disease and parasite infestations. You are fortunate that you will be vaccinated against disease and have a veterinarian at hand to treat any parasites or illness should they occur. I can’t promise you will never get sick, but you will have a better chance than your wild cousins. I apologize to you, dear little cubs, that your wild cousins live with the ongoing threat of being attacked by hyenas and other lions. You are fortunate that you will live in a controlled environment where you will never experience the stress of predation. I apologize to you, dear little cubs, that it is a fact that your wild cousins will kill each other for pride dominance. You are fortunate that you will be kept in a controlled pride where you will never have to fight with each other. I apologize for the fact that your wild cousins are hunted for sport by humans. You are fortunate, little cubs to be born in captivity where you can look forward to living out a longer life than your cousins. When your time comes to enter that “savanna in the sky” it will be by the peaceful death of old age, and not by being ripped apart by a pack of hungry hyenas. I apologize to you little cubs that your wild cousins will never live as long as you will. Their average life span is four to eight years, ultimately dying of stress, disease, starvation, predation, territorial disputes or gun shot. You are fortunate to be born into a peaceful life of captivity where all your needs will met for all your days.

I was going to reply to this piece by piece, but it doesn't deserve it.

If you beleive, like Guzoo Supporters, that all animals are just furry, unsentient, emotionless, non-feeling, living machines, then yes, these lions have it pretty great. They are surrounded by bars, like an object in a museum, where they will be preserved to be enjoyed by humans, in a human environment.

They will linger in a "controlled environment" with no stimulation, natural social structure, change of scenery, problem solving opportunities, opportunities to make choices, make mistakes, and live freely. They will be kept alive (though whether or not they are always fed, provided with water, and health care is up to debate, Guzoo does it VERY substandardly) in a controlled environment like a prisoner or a hospital patient, until they die.

Such an attitude reminds me of the attitude of abusive parents , accused of keeping their child captive. They always take the same defense, that it was for the childs own good, that they were protecting it from the world, which is admittedly cruel...but life in sterile captivity is NOT humane, period. That's why Jail is a PUNISHMENT.

This?

Or this?

"You do your research, I will give you credit..." , December 9th, 2006

2006-12-09T22:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the delay in updates, everyone. We've been really busy lately with the animals, and life in general, so sitting down and tackling the stupidity and cruelty which is Guzoo was difficult to get around to. But I'm back! So, on with the letter:

"This pen contains both rabbits and hens. The rabbits have no where to hide, and the roost is to high for the chickens. Chickens and rabbits should NEVER be housed within the same enclosure, or even near one another. They both carry different strains of coccidia that the other species is very susceptible to and it often proves fatal." If this is such a prevelant problem, why then have we never had an out break of such disease at the GuZoo? You do your research, I will give you credit, but texts books are a far cry from actual reality...the fact is, in reality, the so called disease potential is neglegable.

How do you know you've never had an outbreak? Judging by the many cases of rotting corpses of various animals found within Guzoo, you don't practice proper corpse disposal, let alone have autopsies done on the bodies to find out what killed them.

To Those that were at the Taboo Sex Show...

2006-11-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Thank you for alerting me to Guzoos presence at the latest Taboo Sex Show in Calgary Alberta.

I agree that this is a completely innapropriate situation for these animals. It is loud, it is busy, and it is completely unnatural. These cubs are barely a month old, and I highly doubt they have received their shots, so exposure to that many people, especially with no hand sanitizer is extremely irresponsible. Credible sanctuaries do not put their animals into such terrifying, potentially dangerous situations due to their respect and love for their animals and desire to not exploit them. Guzoo supporters however, do not beleive that animals are sentient, as you can see by Joanna's latest letter...so I am not suprised that they give such little thought to their wellbeing, and only to the money they can make.

I am going to do a bit of research to find out who organized the show, who is responsible for booking vendors, etc. I will post the contact ASAP so those of us that feel that this is wrong can voice our opinions to the proper people.

Thanks again!

Devon

"They had their three lion cubs at the Taboo Sex Show" November 27th 2006

2006-11-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there.

I saw your website. Wow. I've never been to Guzoo. Disturbing.

They had their three lion cubs at the Taboo Sex Show in Calgary at the beginning of November.

They were fundraising to build a 2 acre lion enclosure - cost 20K for their lion pride. People got two professional photographs taken for $15 and then could order prints from London Drugs.

The lions were being kept in a outdoor dog pen and spent a lot of time sleeping or being socialized by one of the people there. They were rotated throughout the day so not just one lion did all the pictures. They were gone by 10:00 each night.

The lions were held by probably hundred of people. They did not provide hand sanitizer or anything, which I thought was odd in an environment where people would have been touching and handling sexual stuff like personal lubricants, massage lotions and other such things.

Jason Clevett, Calgary AB

"Coming across this site, I am now totally appalled" November 27th, 2006

2006-11-29T18:55:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

I was recently an exhibitor at a trade show and the Guzoo had a booth around the corner from mine where you could get your picture taken with a baby lion. I questioned how morally sound it was to have these poor cubs handled by so many people as they were making money hand over fist. I'm sure most people didn't even give it a thought - they were too busy going "oh that's so cute!" Coming across this site I am now totally apalled. I had given them the benefit of the doubt that they were professionals and must know better than I did what they were doing, and what was best for the animal. I now realize this was not necessarily the case. It's sad, the novelty of the opportunity of getting your photo taken with the lion cub was the reason why they were so successful. But the only reason why it's such a novelty is that they were willing to do what most Zoos won't, probably for the protection of their animals.

-Rob

"Do you know what $15 can get you at a sex show?"

2006-11-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

November 11, 2006 was a day I’ll never forget because it was a day that caused me to question the integrity of the human race.

On this Saturday, I visited Taboo: The Naughty But Nice Sex Show at the Stampede Round-Up centre and was quite excited to be attending. It was around 4:00 when we first stepped through the doors and were surprised by the volume of people at that time of day – to get to the point, it was very busy and very loud. I noticed that there were a lot of photography booths, all of which is fine and dandy because the talent in the photographs really showed but there was one set-up which really bothered me. Do you know what $15 can get you at a sex show? A picture with an african lion cub.

Curious, my boyfriend and I wandered closer only to be disturbed by what we saw. In a flimsy, temporary cage that could have at most been 4’x4’, could be found a dog kennel, a few towels covering the floor and three lion cubs. From my angle, I couldn’t see any supply of water for them. One of the cubs moved to hide in the kennel and was immediately taken back out and walked through a rambunctious crowd of ladies all reaching out their hands to touch this exotic animal. The woman holding the cub disappeared out of my sight and I was left to study the cubs that were left in the cage. Both were facing away from the crowd and fingers poked through the cage to try and touch the cubs, one woman even got hold of one the cubs’ tail. Sick of what I saw, I left the display.

We moved on to the next exhibit and in the back of my mind I noted that the booth with the lion cubs wasn’t that far from the performance stage (although the entire show was noisy, there were quieter places and where the lions were held was not one.) By the time we came around for a second pass at the show, I had worked myself into a fit and was determined to give the woman running the african lion photography a piece of my mind. As we approached, I noticed one of the cubs excreting wastes and the woman quickly held a towel underneath him and mopped him up, but left that towel in the cage with the lions still.

My boyfriend had known about my confrontational intentions and wanted to avoid making a scene, ended up distracting me and steering me away from the exhibit. I greatly regret not stating my disappointment and disgust for the flaunting those three lion cubs in a crowded environment where little rest was given to them from the noise and bustling of the show. With such a cheap price for a captured memory of holding an exotic animal I’m sure a fair amount of people leapt at the opportunity, and those african lion cubs were only there for the sheer profit of their owners.

Where are their rights? Why was this allowed? When will animals be recognized as sentient beings that should be respected rather than exploited?

-Michelle Sherwin, Calgary AB

"Good on you Devon for putting up with someone who appears to be so dense!" October 31, 2006

2006-11-29T18:46:00.000-07:00

"This is without a doubt the best zoo in Canada. It is certainly the best zoo I have ever visited, and I have been to many, in Europe, Asia and North America."

Hahah... i read all of that blog and found that quote the funniest part. Good on you Devon for putting up with someone who appears to be so dense!

- Melanie, Edmonton AB

Thank You Melanie! It is very difficult, I had to take a bit of a break there from replying to emails, I was concerned that the stupidity may rub off on me if I was exposed to it for extended periods of time...

"...made me think just how stupid some people are." October 30, 2006

2006-11-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Devon,

While reading some of the questions and views on your blog, I found one that made me think just how stupid some people are.

"Dear Devon, I have, as you suggested, read over your website. I have read every word and studied the photographs. Neither the photographs nor the text can convince me of any lack of animal care at Guzoo. What it does tell me is that your experiences with animals are limited to domestic species such as cats and dogs. It would seem that you have little, if any experience of farm animals or exotics."

This person MUST be blind, because from what I've read on your website, I've noticed many things that could easily get the Guzoo Animal Farm shut down. He claims he studied the pictures you have taken and say that he found nothing wrong. The water that they were giving some animals was absolutely disgusting! Even if they do change the water, water should never be that dirty for their animals. Animals need water daily, and they need clean water. You may have "domestic" animals, and may or may not have looked after exotics, but it is obviously shown in your website that this zoo is something that should be scowled upon. You don't need to have experience with exotics to know when an animal is being treated unfairly. You can EASILY see from these pictures that these animals are being mistreated. They deserve MUCH better than what they are getting. Also, Guzoo also lets people feed their animals. This is something that I think should not be allowed. These are wild animals, and even if they ARE hand raised, they could still strike out and cause an injury. Only staff should be allowed to feed the animals. They are supposed to be trained to be in their position. I doubt that the Guzoo asks the visitors if they have diseases or whatnot. Visitors could easily be spreading disease to these animals. Devon, I adore you for making this website. It helps us see how animals can be treated and it helps us get others involved. You're a genious. Kandis W. Edmonton, AB

"This zoo should NOT be in business" October 30th, 2006

2006-11-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

Looking throughout this website, I found MANY things that absolutely disgusted me. This zoo should NOT be in business. It seems that they have no concern for their animals or for the safety of the visitors. "Zion, our baby lion born in Feb. 2006 is getting bigger. He was hand raised in our home. Lynn has been his primary care-giver (food source) and Zion follows him around the zoo everywhere... He has free run of the zoo right now, we don't have him on a leash. But unless Lynn is out side to follow, he never strays far from the house. " This made me laugh. Every animal has instincts. Even if this lion WAS hand raised, that absolutely does NOT mean that they may not injure another person. Being without a leash and letting it roam around the zoo is dangerous, and they should realize that. Someone could step on him, or do serious damage. I am ABSOLUTELY amazed that this zoo is still in business. It disgusts me how they treat their animals. They should be immedietly shut down, and these animals should be put in better homes than they are now.

-Kandis, Edmonton AB

Very true, many handraised animals have injured people, even in play. Just look at Roy Horn of Sigfried and Roy.

-Devon

"So you think my emails are predictable?" October 26, 2006 , Joanna

2006-11-29T18:40:00.001-07:00

Finally, a reply from Joanna, or "Grannysmith" as she likes to call herself.

So, you think my emails are predictable? Hmmm have to do something about that.

Sorry, but I'm going to pull your comments apart.

Very Unlikely...

5.1 First Part

Anatomy I
Physiology I
Biochemistry
Animal Management

5.2 Second Part

Anatomy II
Physiology II
Integrated DSE
Animal Health & Husbandry
Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Parasitology & Environmental Science

5.3 Third Part

5.4 Fourth Part

Pathology
Veterinary Public Health
Clinical Veterinary Science I (Farm Animal Science including Reproduction)
Clinical Veterinary Science II (Companion Animal Science)

5.5 Final Part

Veterinary Public Health
Clinical Veterinary Science I (Farm Animal Science including Reproduction)
Clinical Veterinary Science II (Companion Animal Science).

She is also a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons ( http://www.rcvs.org.uk) a regulatory body for veterinary surgeons in the UK. Their role, as stated on their website, is this:

To safeguard the health and welfare of animals committed to veterinary care through the regulation of the educational, ethical and clinical standards of the veterinary profession, thereby protecting the interests of those dependent on animals and assuring public health.
To act as an impartial source of informed opinion on animal health and welfare issues and their interaction with human health.

As I said, my facts were compiled from research and expert opinions from WSPA and Zoocheck. Every peice of information those groups publicly release is true and proveable.

There are signs all oiver Guzoo telling people to wash their hands after handling animals. If people ignore these signs that's their problem not Guzoo's

I do not know the details of the cats condition, however, cats if Guzoo gave their animals vaccinations, Distemper wouldn't be as much of an issue.

It proves my point that the supervision at Guzoo is inadequate.

The lion and tiger pens, as well as all the others are now kept padlocked. I don't know exactly when this policy was instigated, obviously some time since your visit.

Good Job, how long did that take? Since 1992?

Well done for doing your own investigation, but as you admitted yourself you are not an expert. Just because something is published and released to the public does not make it fact.

Also, the signage issue is for the public. With no effort to educate the public, Guzoo is merely a sideshow.

That's all I have to say for you to now. I don't think I'll take you up on the Vegan debate, I have much, much better things to do.

Devon.

Joanna C, and the Guzoo Support Team.

2006-10-22T02:50:00.000-06:00

Joanna, or Granny Smith as she calls herself, was all to eager to argue in the beginning, spouting off weak personal insults and was very impatient regaurding replys to her email....

"Maybe it is, but I notice it still hasn't been updated and you still haven't answered my (requested) email. I'm very disapointed in you. I thought you had more debating power, but obviously I was mistaken. Or maybe you are just bored and ready to go on to the next thing. Am I right or am I right?"

-Joanna C. (Granny Smith)

I indulged her with a reply, and it has been....exactly 15 days since I sent it! Perhaps she over estimated how much "debating power" she actually has. Or perhaps she under estimated mine.

"...remember, people are watching you..." Oct 7th, 2006.

2006-10-22T02:38:00.000-06:00

Dear Devon,

Thank you for having the courtesy to reply. I am sorry you aren't feeling too well. I thought veganism was supposed to be so healthy. I thought it was just us omnivores that got sick. I am disappointed you have given up so easily, I've had more fun than I've had for ages. Please, just do me one favour. You are obviously bright, articulate, talented, and have a good way with words. You care for animals with a fierce passion few can equal. Always fight for what you believe to be right, but get your facts straight before making public statements and don't waste your life on dead end causes. It was nice corresponding with you Devon, and remember, people are watching you and the next time you put your foot in your mouth we'll be here to defend OUR causes.

- Joanna C

Joanna,

Everytime I read one of your letters, I have to roll my eyes. You're so predictable. I don't even know why I'm bothering to reply.

First of all, please find me a vegan that claims they are immortal and completely immune to viruses and disease. Please find me an instance in which I have claimed to be superhuman and immune to illness. Your subtle insults are laughable.

Anyways, I must admit, as I read this email and saw you say I was giving up, I thought it strange as I couldn't remember our original correspondance. I looked back into my drafts and realized that I had neglected to send my reply to your original email. Seeing as you apparantly have no life, or atleast a life devoid of joy, as your correspondance with me was the funnest thing you've done in a while.....I'll indulge you:

MY ORIGINAL REPLY

There ya go. I hope replying to that will give you immense amounts of joy and excitement!

Now to quickly finish this off....

Thank you for the compliments. I have my facts straight though, sorry to say. The fact is is that the Alberta Zoo regulations are extremely easy to come by and extremely easy to interpret. One can print it off, go to the zoo, and use it as a checklist. That's what I did. I did my own personal investigations into the conditions of Guzoo, and I still beleive what I beleive. All information I posted on that site IS fact and it IS proveable and it has already been released to the public elsewhere.

Fortunatley, my life isn't focused around closing Guzoo. That website was the product of one sleepless night brought on by to much candy and slurpees earlier in the day, mixed with frustration at the lack of easily locatable information on Guzoo. I've made so many websites, it took me only a few hours to complete. That leaves me with...well, the rest of my life....to do other meaningful things, such as run our animal rescue and finishing school. This cause is obviously NOT dead end, with the new Zoo Regulations put in place in 2005, I'm hoping to see some big changes in either Guzoo or the way the Government is handling lisencing very soon...and as things progress, I'll update my website.

As for your subtle threat of how people are watching me, all I can say is....So? Watch me. The more hits I get, the higher up I get on Google. I'm SO TERRIFIED of you and your fellow senior citizens defending Guzoo and the Gustafsons, so terrified, I'm shaking. People are watching you too, visiting the zoo with the Alberta Zoo Regulations in hand, ready to file complaints with fish and wildlife...and I won't hesitate to post the next Guzoo related publication.

Happy Thanksgiving, Enjoy your bird.

Devon

"...such an awful facility..." Sept 26th, 2006

2006-10-20T18:18:00.000-06:00

Have you contacted media about this Guzoo animal farm? I sure Global News would do a great Troubleshooting piece on them. It just bothers be so much that someone would be cruel enough, that someone could be so unbelieveably heartless, that they would put animals in such an awful facility with next to no care or proper attention. I don't understand how someone can possibly lack that much of a conscience. I would like to do everything in my power to help, I intend on writing letters to the government, and try to raise awareness for this situation. Is there anything else I could possibly do?? -Sabrina K.

Hi Sabrina, I do beleive the media needs to get involved again. Guzoo has been profiled on W5 and mentioned numerous times on news networks following releases of damning reports. A newspaper in Calgary also did a very large story regaurding Guzoo. The new Alberta Zoo Regulations are now in place and I imagine another inspection will be done soon, afterwhich I'm sure more media attention will be attracted. However, I do plan on emailing Global News and asking for an update on the situation, it may prompt them into doing a story on them. Aside from writing letters and raising awareness of the situation, there isn't much one can do. If anything comes up, I'll be sure to email you! Thanks a bunch, Devon

"..best zoo in Canada..." Joanna C. Sep 23 2006

2006-10-20T14:31:00.000-06:00

I was horrified when I saw your website. The text consists almost exclusively of fabrication, gross exaggeration and downright lies. The photo's are outdated and the captions manipulative.

Everyone who knows Guzoo, knows that your claims are ludicrous.

Everyone that knows Guzoo is apparantly blind then. The pictures, and soon to be posted video clips, don't lie. Nor do the reports released by WSPA and Zoocheck, the complaints filed with Fish and Wildlife, etc.

By putting this site on the net without checking your facts you simply expose yourself to ridicule.

As I said, my facts were compiled from research and expert opinions from WSPA and Zoocheck. Every peice of information those groups publicly release are true and proveable.

What sort of "expert" or "animal professional" confuses a beagle with a basset? Or a climbing structure with a shelter.

Do you have evidence that this is a lie? I came home COVERED in fleas every time I went there. A friend in Calgary brought home some cats and ended up having all of them die, including her own, from distemper. Even if there wasn't any obvious diseases present, it should definitley still be practice for the public to either not touch their animals, or wash their hands between each. This is common sense, as diseases ARE easily passed through human contact. This is why at bird or reptile shows, you have to disinfect between tables, and at the Humane Society you have to disinfect between each animal as well.

"Hand Sanitizer is no where to be found in the zoo" This statement is a blatant lie.

Where is it? I would have loved to have hand sanitizer while I was there ,the place was flithy. It should be available at every singe cage where human/animal contact is allowed. Not having it present puts the animals at risk as well as the health of the humans involved. The Humane Society requires you to sanitize your hands between handling each cat and dog, and reptile and bird shows require you to sanitize your hands between each table. If there is hand sanitizer at the zoo now, then kudos. But there wasn't any there when I visited.

"there virtually no staff presence" This statement is a blatant lie.

No, it's not. People were walking in without paying. There were NO staff in the lion and tiger cub cage while I was there. Nobody had uniforms or name tags, so you can't tell who works there anyway, and half the time you have to go up to the house to find them. THis is extremely irresponsible. Anything could happen to those animals while they're in their house and not paying attention. They should hire a staff so that every part of the zoo is supervised, it only makes sense. If you look at the timeline, there are mutliple complaints regaurding the lack of staff presence and as I said, all statements by Zoocheck and WSPA are proveable.

Did you actually go in the wolf enclosure and smell the "Rotten Meat found in the wolf cage"? and why do you claim it is inappropriate? What do you suppose wolves eat in the wild? Canned wolf food that they buy from wolvamart?

No, I didn't even have to go into the enclosure, I could smell it from the bars of the cage.

I do not disagree with carcass feeding. However, there should be strict protocol...modern, respected, accreddited zoos that carcass feed have strict guidlines and food preparation protocol, and they don't leave it in the cage long enough for it to rot. For example, The Folsom Zoo in California:

"Our Carcass Feeding Protocol was developed to provide guidelines for the acquisition, handling,and feeding of whole carcasses, fowl, fish, and butchered meats for the carnivores, omnivores, and raptors at the Folsom City Zoo. We want to ensure that the feedings are conducted in an efficient, safe, and quality-controlled manner. The Protocol describes the following:

1) sources from which carcasses and butchered meat will be accepted;
2) how they will be acquired—when they should be delivered to the zoo and when the zoo will provide pick-up service;
3) how to screen donations and assess whether or not to accept a carcass;
4) what to do with an unacceptable carcass;
5) what P.R. steps to take if a carcass is rejected;
6) how to prepare an accepted carcass; and
7) how to encourage positive public reaction. Acceptable carcasses are processed by removing any bullets and tagging and freezing the carcass for 30 days to minimize disease or parasitism. Carcasses are not gutted. They are thawed before being fed to the animals."

The best laugh of all was the "Hot, listless lion cub, no water available" Did it ever occur to you that lions living in Africa may be hot and listless?

Of course! But they usually have access to water. And don't say "What about during a drought?" because Guzoos lions are captive, they're not experiencing a drought, they should ALWAYS have access to fresh, clean water. When we keep animals in captivity it is our responsibility to provide them with fresh water at all times.

This one is just asleep for heavens sake. How often do you drink while you're sleeping?

It was asleep ALL DAY even when people picked it up, it barely opened it's eyes. That lion didn't have a choice to drink, there was no water, he couldn't have drank even if he wanted to.

I have visited Guzoo over 50 times. I have NEVER been there and found the place lacking staff. All members of Guzoo staff are members of the Gustafson family. They live on site. They are there 24 hours a day 365 days a year. They are VERY knowledgeable. They know the animals individually - afterall they raised most of them from being babies.
You're right, they are all part of the Gustafson family, and they do live on site. A lot of the time, such as during dinner, they are all inside. There have been multiple complaints about no staff presence at Guzoo. Cages are left unlocked with no supervision. The fact that they raise most of their animals from babies also shows that they are not a rescue as they claim to be...they purchase baby animals and raise them solely for the purpose of exploitation.

I visited Guzoo this week. The animals were healthy and well fed. The cages were clean and the water dishes were full.
People have been claiming that Guzoo is clean and the dishes are full since day one. They have their supporters. So what...do they mess it up when they sense enemy's are coming? Throw garbage around, dump water, and mess up the joint? And how could you possibly know if they were healthy? Did you do a full vet exam? Also, the water and food dishes have to be filled up at some point...that doesn't mean that they stay like that.
This is without a doubt the best zoo in Canada. It is certainly the best zoo I have ever visited, and I have been to many, in Europe, Asia and North America.
Wow. I guess it depends on how you're juding your zoos. If you don't care much about animal welfare and prefer the opportunity to cuddle with animals and treat them like pets, then sure, Guzoo is awesome. But if you actually care about the animals in the situation, it is most definitley not the best....it's the worst in Alberta, according to experienced zoo experts and zoo reviews.

"...you just don't think... Sep 26 2006

2006-10-19T20:53:00.000-06:00

I have been looking forward so much to corresponding with you again. I found your reply to my email most interesting, and I was really pleased to see it on your website. I hope this one makes it there too.

You've got your wish.
As I stated in my previous email, you have no experience with either farm livestock or large exotic animals. Someone who keeps amphibians, reptiles, small mammals and a few birds in their home cannot by any stretch of the imagination be considered an expert in anything.

You are putting words in my mouth.

I am not an expert, nor have I ever claimed to be- but I do have experience with keeping high maintenance animals and have researched the care of others extensively. My experience, however, doesn't really have much to do with this. I had researched zoo standards and the state of Guzoo prior to visiting, and knew which violations to look for. I have a good idea for obvious neglectful situations, such as lack of water, lack of proper shelter, dilapidated fencing and barriers, rusty/sharp/etc pieces exposed to the animals, rotten food, lack of space, etc. Though I am not an expert, and have never claimed to be an expert, I pretty much knew what I was looking for in a lot of cases, and knew what regulations Guzoo was supposed to be following. In addition to that, I have researched the proper care of Big Cats, Primates, and Ungulates in captivity so had a bit of knowledge on the subject when visiting Guzoo. As I said, I am not an expert, but I was able to recognize obvious flaws.

"The Second time I went to Guzoo, it was with a WSPA representative as well as a Voice For Animals representative. I was invited to come along again, due to my abilities stated above."

What abilities? Did you miss out a sentence in your haste to reply? You don't state any abilities, above, below, or anywhere else in your email, nor do you list your qualifications, or the name of the establishment at which you gained them. How many years did you attend university? Do you have a Masters or a Bachelors degree? and in what related field?

If Voice for Animals and WSPA invited you to critique Guzoo they must be desperately short of members qualified in this field.

No, you missed out on a few sentences in your haste to reply:

"True, I do not have any extremely large exotics such as tigers or lions, but we do keep and appreciate the amount of work involved keeping high maintenance exotics. We have high standards of care, and we are very capable of recognizing animal neglect when we see it."

"We went because of our experience with animal welfare and care, and our ability to spot neglectful situations. Though we do not have hands on experience with many of the animals at Guzoo, we have researched their care extensively."

We had been corresponding with WSPA for sometime prior to the visit to Guzoo, and wished to become more involved in the campaign to close the zoo. A few months after our first correspondence, the group sent a qualified representative to visit Guzoo and take notes. We were invited due to our prior involvement, as another pair of eyes is obviously better at spotting flaws then one. The group is not short of qualified staff, as the saying goes, "two heads are better then one."

As I said previously, my experience is nothing more then hundreds of hours of research, and the appreciation for basic animal welfare, as well as years of hands on experience dealing with abuse and neglect cases as well as high maintenance small exotics. Never did I claim to have a degree in anything. My site is merely a compilation of provable facts gathered and made public by Zoocheck and WSPA. It is not a difficult thing to do, to research and gather already available information and put it into one convenient source. I have stated my limited experience, and do not claim to be anything I am not.

"We took note of the fact that no staff were present. This is a violation of Alberta Zoo Regulations, and we were there to investigate such violations.".

So, you were investigating violations of the Alberta Zoo Act. Maybe you have a degree in Law! It is odd that you say no staff were present because in an email you sent to an associate of mine you state;

"Lynn Gustafson happily answered any questions I had and gave us a tour. We were there when they took 2 week old lions away from their mom, they passed them over the fence to us."

One of these statements would appear to be a lie. Which is it? Where there staff there or not? Maybe you don't consider Mr Gustafson as staff. Take Note. He owns the place.

I do not have a degree in law, but I am a pretty damn good reader. The zoo regulations have been typed out, believe it or not, by people with degrees in law, and provided to the public in a handy new invention they like to call the internet:

Alberta Zoo Regulations

Therefore, one looking to find zoo standard violations merely has to look at the document provided by the Alberta Zoo Standard Committee, and look for contradictions of the stated standards.

Neither statement is a lie. As I said, I have visited Guzoo multiple times. Each time, staff presence was minimal, and at times, such as when the Gustafson's were having dinner, completely absent. The first visit, Gustafson gave us a tour and then left, after 45 minutes. After that, we were unable to find any staff. With over 400 animals, Guzoo should have a much larger body of staff. Much of the zoo was left unstaffed for long periods of time while we visited. We did occasionally see staff, and talked to them if they were open to it, but there weren't enough people there to consider it acceptable staff presence. The times we saw them were rare, and brief. If there were an emergency with a zoo visitor, or an animal, it may not be noticed for hours. Anytime, no matter how brief, that the zoo is left unattended is a violation of Alberta Zoo Standards.

I did like your recommendation about how the lions should be kept.

"A natural pride setup with a naturallistic enclosure in which the lions are encouraged to be wild animals is in the animals best interest, which they obviously do not see as a priority."

I take it you have researched this subject and understand what it would involve. First Mr Gustafson would have to buy up the whole of Three Hills, the current population would have to be re-housed in another town unless they wished to become lion fodder. Next, herds of zebra, wildebeest and antelope would be moved in to provide prey that the lionesses would hunt and kill. Of course, there would be indiscriminate breeding of multiple females As the young male lions reached adulthood the dominant male lion would fight with them resulting in the death of one or the other. If the upstart were to win he would then kill and eat all the cubs sired by his predecessor before breeding with the lionesses.

If I could roll my eyes on the internet, I would be doing it now.

I said "Natural pride setup with a naturalistic enclosure" not "A replica of an African safari."

Take special note of the word "Enclosure" verses "Safari". One obviously implies containment, such as you would find in a zoo. The word "Naturalistic" is defined by the Dictionary as such:

"Imitating or producing the effect or appearance of nature."

Obviously, I took into account the amount of space Guzoo has for its enclosures. It could easily double or triple the size of it's current main lion enclosure, and then landscape and furnish it in as natural of fashion possible while still following Zoo Standards and common sense, such as modern, respectable zoos strive to do. For example:

These lions enjoy a large naturalistic enclosure at the Calgary Zoo:

Calgary Lions

I really don't think I have to provide any more of an explanation to clarify what I meant by a naturalistic enclosure.

As far as indiscriminate breeding, I'd like to remind you of the wonders of 'birth control'. Yes, it is available to animals as well, believe it or not! There are chemical therapies available, but the most common method of birth control is either neutering or vasectomies for the males. There are also implants for the females, or the standard spaying procedure. You can still house lions in a family group, without having them breed.

"As far as I know, there are holes in the goats shelter due to sheer laziness. I cannot think of any other reason."

Or is it that you just don't think? Goats, as well as many other breeds of livestock will chew wood no matter how well fed they are. What's more, the goats don't care what their shelter looks like, maybe they like the holes, it allows them a better view of approaching predators.

They may like the holes when it's warm and sunny, but as goats abhor getting wet, I doubt they like them when it rains or snows. It's true that goats can withstand cold weather, but getting wet leaves them susceptible to illness and moisture buildup can cause respiratory problems.

I am fully aware of the fact that goats chew wood. However, providing enrichment to the goats, such as barrels, jolly-balls, climbing structures, trees, bushes, and branches can also minimizes the shelter chewing behaviour, as well as adequate space and a varied terrain. I have yet to find a goat breeder or keeper with such serious problems with keeping their goat's shelters adequate. I imagine that it's because these people's goats have access to acres of grassy terrain, climbing structures, trees and logs, large rocks, toys and salt licks at all times. They're not bored enough to chew up their barns.

Seeing as Guzoo is famous for not providing enrichment, however, they could take the little bit of trouble to perhaps construct a brick, cinderblock, or corrugated tin shelter that is well ventilated, yet keeps out wind, rain and snow. With bedding and straw, this is perfectly fine and indestructible.

"(Did you happen to ask about what was going to happen to those adorable little piglets? We asked about the one pictured on our website, they were raising him for slaughter.)"

Only a person with a lack of knowledge of the livestock industry would imagine they were raising them for any other purpose.

Guzoo does not portray themselves as part of the livestock industry. They portray themselves as a zoo-many zoos exhibit wild boars.

"I have an animal rescue and this would NEVER happen. All animals are spayed and neutered here, quarantined. We want to help REDUCE the pet population."

Is this true? What about your gerbils? What about budgies and finches? Have you ever bred these? How then, can you condemn another person for doing what you do yourself?

We breed gerbils occasionally to feed the snakes at our rescue; however, we are in the process of stopping, as we have found an affordable source of frozen rodents. We only have three of our own gerbils. We have never bred budgies, finches, or any other animal. Dogs and cats are always fixed, and genders are kept separated when it comes to other species, to prevent accidental pregnancies.

"I do not have prejudices, I have opinions based on fact and observation. The only thing that could put my mind at rest is the closure of Guzoo. "

Wrong. You have beliefs based on biased, partial, and slanted evidence and you refuse to seriously investigate contrary evidence, on the grounds that you already know the truth, namely your prejudice against Guzoo. How would the closure of Guzoo benefit anything? It certainly would not benefit the animals, the Gustafson family, the town of Three Hills or yourself.

I have already investigated the alleged "biased, partial and slanted evidence" myself by visiting Guzoo and having a few discussions with Guzoo supporters at my visits. Through my own investigations, study of animal welfare and husbandry, my limited hands on experience with exotics, and careful study of the Alberta Zoo Standards I made a conclusion after visiting Guzoo that it was substandard, and that I agreed with the evidence provided by WSPA and Zoocheck. As I have previously stated, all information published by WSPA and Zoocheck is provable and true. And if that wasn't the case, Guzoo would have sued them already.

The Gustafson family has had many long years to downsize their operation and improve conditions. If they improved the standard of animal welfare to coincide with the Alberta Zoo Standards, they would not suffer much and would be able to remain open. However, they've refused to follow regulations and violate them continuously-the next step, if the system works, is the refusal to renew Guzoo's license. In this case, the majority of the animals would likely be placed in accredited zoos and sanctuaries throughout North America. If this were to happen, it would be through Guzoo's own doing through their refusal to follow Alberta zoo regulations. Any effect the zoo's closure has on the town of Three Hills or on the Gustafson family is of their own doing, is their own fault, for not following Alberta law. They could go back to operating a dairy farm, with little sympathy from me.

"People often put their own needs ahead of other sentient beings, which is apparant it the vast majority of industries involving animals."

Is it not true that you yourself put your own needs and wants ahead of other sentient beings? Does your website benefit animals or does it feed your craving for attention, your need to assert yourself over others, and your desire to show off your talents?

I do my best to think of the effect an action may have on another sentient being prior to acting. I try to live my life without harming other sentient beings, and try hard to minimize my impact on the environment. However, I am human, and I am not perfect. As for what my website benefits? It benefits the movement to have Guzoo improved or shut down. It helps concerned citizens find information on the zoo, and how they can help shut it down. In the long term, I hope it is one of the many things contributing to the closure of Guzoo.

"There are plenty of alternatives you could have turned to, such as volunteering for an accreddited rescue or sanctuary doing jobs as varied as just hanging out with the animals, to helping run the facility. You could even consider rescuing an animal yourself. There are many alternatives that allow humane animal/human interaction without the animal having to suffer."

You didn't bother to read my email properly did you? I couldn't possible have done what you suggest. I was ill. I could barely drag myself around, far from rescuing an animal, I was in need of rescue myself.

I assumed you could use the same method of travel you used to get to Guzoo-did you even bother to read MY email properly? I recommended volunteering at an accredited facility-and mentioned "just hanging out with the animals". Most SPCA's and rescues have an animal visiting program for animal enrichment. I assume they would let you sit in a chair.

"I think I have a much clearer outlook on the situation then you do and have much more credible sources then you do."

Do you? If by "credible sources" you are referring to Voice for Animals, WSPA and Zoocheck, these are self appointed critics whose main aim is to indoctrinate little girls like you into believing that animals have the same values as humans. My source of information is my own five senses and my background knowledge of animals, zoos and the livestock industry, which, it would seem, is far superior to yours.

Not until I became the tofu eating, animal loving, hippy that I am, did I discover Zoocheck, V4A or WSPA. Zoocheck and WSPA's information was gathered by qualified professionals commissioned by the groups:

Marilyn Cole, Zoo Professional (20 Years Experience at Toronto Zoo)

Dr. Samantha Scott, Vet and Animal behaviorist.

J.Long, Zoo Professional

Richard Farinato, former Captive Wildlife Expert for the Humane Society of the United States.

Those four highly qualified individuals have, I'm sure, knowledge far superior to yours when it comes to Zoo Animal Care. I visited Guzoo myself and didn't like what I saw. I was not indoctrinated, I've been interested in animal rights and welfare since I was 13 due to my own experiences and research. As far as your involvement in the livestock industry-.

I doubt a lot of people would take animal care advice from someone involved in a livestock industry that tends to house it's animals like this these days...

"...Guzoo has been a lifesaver..." Sept 17, 2006

2006-10-19T17:31:00.000-06:00

Dear Devon,

I have, as you suggested, read over your website. I have read every word and studied the photographs. Neither the photographs nor the text can convince me of any lack of animal care at Guzoo. What it does tell me is that your experiences with animals are limited to domestic species such as cats and dogs. It would seem that you have little, if any experience of farm animals or exotics.

Then your animal care standards must be much lower then mine, as well as respected zoo and wild animal experts. As far as experience with animals go, I actually have quite a bit more then the average person. My family has an animal rescue for Small Domestic and Exotic Animals as well as cats and dogs. At the moment, I have:

-Bare Eyed Cockatoo
-Budgies
-Canarys
-Guinea Pigs
-Rabbits
-4 Species of Tarantula
-Gerbils
-Hamster
-Chinese Water Dragon
-Bearded Dragon
-Tree frogs
-Boa Constrictors
-Ball Pythons
-Kingsnakes
-Cornsnakes
-multiple species of fish
-degus
-turtles
-Lovebirds
-Mountain Horned Dragon
-Mice
-Green Anoles
-Crested Geckos
-Leopard Geckos
-Golden Geckos
-Dogs
-Cats
-Veiled Chameleon

We have had in the past Chickens, ducks, magpies, crows, skinks, senegals,finches, cockatiels, Australian Water Dragons, Vietnamese Calotes, hedgehogs, chinchillas, Red Eyed Tree Frogs, Cuban Tree Frogs, and many more. True, I do not have any extremely large exotics such as tigers or lions, but we do keep and appreciate the amount of work involved keeping high maintanence exotics. We have high standards of care, and we are very capable of recognizing animal neglect when we see it.

You say you have been to Guzoo three times, I have to ask this, but why, if it is so awful, did you go back after your first visit?

The first time I went to Guzoo, it was with Voice For Animals society of Edmonton after receiving multiple complaints from the public. We went because of our experience with animal welfare and care, and our ability to spot neglectful situations. Though we do not have hands on experience with many of the animals at Guzoo,we have researched their care extensivley. The Second time I went to Guzoo, it was with a WSPA representative as well as a Voice For Animals representative. I was invited to come along again, due to my abilities stated above. The Third time I went to Guzoo, it was also with a WSPA representative. All three trips were made with the intent to take pictures,take notes, and investigate claims for ourselves.

You say no staff were present, yet your concern for the animals welfare was not sufficient to prompt you to look for someone to whom you could air your concerns.

We took note of the fact that no staff were present. This is a violation of Alberta Zoo Regulations, and we were there to investigate such violations. Concerns were aired to US. We later aired our concerns, of course, with government officials and Fish and Wildlife.

Did it not occur to you to go to the Gustafson's house, knock, and ask where a member of staff could be found? All staff members at Guzoo are members of the Gustafson family; their knowledge, with regard to the Guzoo animals is extensive, they could easily have answered your questions truthfully and accurately. This small act would have gone a long way to putting your mind at rest.

I didn't wish to speak to the Gustafsons. Of course they are going to have excuses as to why the animal care at their facility is substandard. The fact that a visitor has to knock on the door of the house is irresponsible and a violation of zoo regulations, to not have a sufficient number of staff on site, supervising, at all times. Someone could have been wreaking havoc within the zoo at that very moment and they would never have noticed.

I would like to suggest that you make a fourth visit to Guzoo, but this time, introduce yourself to Mr Gustafson. Maybe even make an appointment in advance to ensure your trip isn't wasted. Ask him why the dog is in with the lion, why the goat shelter has large holes in the side, why the water fowl's water is muddy. Ask him why there are so many cats and kittens, so many dogs. Before you walk through the gate, clear your mind of all the prejudices you currently hold. Don't go looking to find fault, but to learn and understand.

I have spoken to Mr.Gustafson in the past. He informed us that the dog was in with the lion in an attempt to keep it tamed down like the dog, and that lion cubs are introduced to dogs and humans at a young age as it makes them easier to rehome afterwards. There are babies being born there all the time! Do you never wonder where they end up later? Keeping a dog in with a lion is not natural. The needs and behaviours of a domestic dog and a lion are extremely different...though, it's not as though there is any care taken towards proper environmental setup and stimulation for individual species at Guzoo. The cage is barren, and the dogs and lions pace. The only reason they keep them together is for their own gain, not the lions. A natural pride setup with a naturallistic enclosure in which the lions are encouraged to be wild animals is in the animals best interest, which they obviously do not see as a priority.

As far as I know, there are holes in the goats shelter due to sheer laziness. I cannot think of any other reason. I know of many people that keep goats, and their shelters are not filled with holes. A few peices of wood isn't that expensive. If it's lack of funding they're having a problem with, then maybe they should put a limit on how many animals they take in so that they have enough money to properly care for them all.

Cats, Kittens, dogs and puppies, I can understand, but there still is no excuse. There were multiple litters of kittens each time I visited Guzoo, unneutered male cats with unspayed female cats caged together, allowed to roam together. I have an animal rescue and this would NEVER happen. All animals are spayed and neutered here, quarantined. We want to help REDUCE the pet population. I realize people surrender dogs and cats to guzoo all the time, but they do nothing to prevent their reproduction!

I do not have prejudices, I have opinions based on fact and observation. The only thing that could put my mind at rest is the closure of Guzoo.

Before I finish I would like to tell you a story about my very first visit to Guzoo. As I said before I have lived and worked with animals my whole life, but ten years ago, due to a long distance move, I hadn't owned an animal for a year.

I was recovering from a serious illness that resulted in a six week hospital stay. After my release from hospital, I was weak and very, very unhappy. I arrived at Guzoo and paid my admission fee. Beside the office was a pen with three wild boar piglets.

(Did you happen to ask about what was going to happen to those adorable little piglets? We asked about the one pictured on our website, they were raising him for slaughter.)

Without saying a word, Mr Gustafson reached into the cage and handed me one of the piglets, from his pocket he then produced a bottle of milk that he put in my other hand. Immediately my spirits began to lift. By the end of that day I had fed a cougar cub, a young raccoon and a fawn. I had been introduced to each animal and told some of its history, and I had met a thoughtful, caring and insightful human being. I went home that evening elated. I had had the best day for a very long time. That was the day I began my recovery.

Over the last ten years I have visited Guzoo many times and talked to many other visitors. I have heard stories similar to mine over and over again. Guzoo has been a lifesaver, not only for me, but for many other people too.

I congratulate you on your recovery, however, it does not change my outlook on Guzoo whatsoever. Yes, animals have a therapeutic effect, it is a fact that has been known for decades. However, keeping animals in conditions so bad that they rival third world zoos, where they live, suffer, and die, so that a human can gain from it is a typical attitude of our society, and an attitude which I reject. People often put their own needs ahead of other sentient beings, which is apparant it the vast majority of industries involving animals. There are plenty of alternatives you could have turned to, such as volunteering for an accreddited rescue or sanctuary doing jobs as varied as just hanging out with the animals, to helping run the facility. You could even consider rescuing an animal yourself. There are many alternatives that allow humane animal/human interaction without the animal having to suffer.

Well Devon, I do hope you take my advice and visit Guzoo soon, but if you choose not to, at least get yourself better informed about the world around you before you condemn those who are more knowledgeable and experienced than you are.

If you are speaking about Gustafson when you say "those who are more knowledgeable and experienced than you are", then I beg to differ. I think I have a much clearer outlook on the situation then you do and have much more credible sources then you do...Gustafson is a former Dairy farmer and the owner of a zoo that has been called an embarassment to our province; I wouldn't count on him or his family as a reliable source of information, unless I had a cow to milk. Thanks!

Click Here to Read the Response!

"...wonderful genius." Sept 17th, 2006

2006-10-19T17:28:00.000-06:00

"Devon, I love you.

I just went to your Guzoo website.
I actually think you're a wonderful genius."

-Alex, Edmonton AB

My Reply: Haha, I just had to include this one, I've never been called a wonderful genius before!

"...poor animals have seen nothing but BAD press." Sept 16, 2006

2006-10-19T17:18:00.000-06:00

"WSPA/Zoocheck were offered the Guzoo Animals at a reasonable rate over 6 years ago to be dispersed and properly tended to as they saw fit and these two wanimal welfare gropups replied that that was not part of their function. Funding was also requested from their millions of revenue to help these animals that they continue to raise money from in their propaganda, again their response was that it wasn't part of their agenda. Explain to me why then they continue to point out inadequacies of this particular location but continue to take in revenue in the name of helping these poor animals."

First off, seeing as I had never heard of the supposed offer to sell the animals to WSPA/Zoocheck I decided to check in with Zoocheck to hear the other side of the story. This is the reply I received:

"It is true that we got letters from someone at Guzoo a few years ago asking us to fund the improvements at the zoo, we were never offered to purchase the animals. We responded by letting them know that there are dozens of roadside zoos in Canada (90% of Canada's zoos are small privately owned collections), it is not possible for us to fund zoo upgrades nor is that our job, we did not place those animals in captivity or in anyway precipitate their suffering and therefore it is not our job to take over the horrific situations that were created by others. Furthermore, we work on numerous issues including circuses, exotic pets and other wildlife issues. Our role is defined by our supporters. From time to time we have facilitated the move of specific animals where we could afford to and wherein that animal's life would be significantly improved."

She also noted that Zoochecks annual budget is a very small fraction of the millions you suggest. She then states,

" Our role is to educate the public about the suffering of captive animals and work towards stopping that suffering through education and advocacy."

The poor animals have seen nothing but BAD press.

It isn't the animals receiving bad press, it is the Guzoo, the Gustafsons and the way that they are keeping these animals that is drawing media. All that we are doing is in the best interest for the animals involved. If the zoo was shut down, the animals would be dispersed to credible facilities where they would be able to live their life a little more like they were meant to.

The $ collected on their behalf would clean alot of cages and implement a lot of enrichment for these animals if were actually finding its way to them. If you believe in these animal welfare groups then you petition them for funding to adequately upgrade the lives of these Guzoo animals.

The Guzoo has been open for more then a decade. Mr.Gustafson has had a lot of time to improve the conditions at the zoo. I know they have an annual fundraised called 'Cut the Bull' that can raise up to $10,000 dollars. Why then, haven't there been any significant changes at Guzoo? Even the cheapest problems that need to be addressed are left neglected. The money is obviously not being spent wisely, as in, not being spent on improving the lives of the animals they hold captive. They have had plenty of warnings and far to many temporary permits to get them to do what it takes to improve the lives of their animals. They HAVE the power already to improve the zoo. If they were to rehome some animals and stop acquiring new ones, then maybe they would be able to provide for the remaining animals better. Doesn't that make sense? They buy and breed animals DESPITE their financial situation! They've gotten themselves into this mess.
Please do let me read the respose letters that you receive on the animals behalf. I shall watch your site for the upgrades that your ralllying has funded for these animals since you care so much. Perhaps your internet time would be better spent with a pitch fork and a waste disposal bucket @ Guzoo helping the animals and enriching their lives with your knowledge rather than your back stabbing criticism."

Working at Guzoo only supports the Gustafsons, and does nothing for the long term care of the animals. Nothing I could do would improve those animals' lives enough so that their care would be up to Zoo Regulation standards.

Thanks for your somewhat well written, but not very well thought out letter. Feel free to mail me again!

"...glad there are people like you..." Sept 12th, 2006

2006-10-19T17:15:00.000-06:00

"I am glad there are people like you who will further expose the horrendous conditions in which some animals are forced to live. These zoo owners are no better than the crazy cat ladies on the news, the only difference is the cat ladies have the excuse of a mental illness."

- Lisa W, Edmonton AB

My Reply: My thoughts exactly. I've always described Guzoo as something like a cat house gone wild. They just seem to keep acquiring animals that they obviously don't have the means to keep correctly. I don't understand how the government can continue to ignore this problem. Thanks for writing!

"LAW SUITS..." Sept 10th, 2006

2006-10-19T17:05:00.000-06:00

"LAW SUITS in the making for sure for you. There are some blatant lies on this website. It is against the law to make false statements against a person's business or livelyhood. You have crossed the line on here for sure"

-Anonymous, Redneck AB

My Reply: Have I? All I've done is compile the scattered Guzoo information into one convenient website. The information itself are from reports done by experts commisioned by WSPA and Zoocheck. They released this information to the public, I am merely repeating it. Don't shoot the messenger! If you would mind pointing out the apparant lies, I'd be happy to to link you to the source of the information so you can take your guzoo loving anger elsewhere. I await your email!

"Thank you..." Sep 4th, 2006

2006-10-19T15:04:00.000-06:00

Thank you so much for posting this site. I had no idea..... I am going to write an email and I will send it to people that I know and get them to send a letter too.

-Anonymous

My Reply: No problem!Thanks for spreading the word!

"You better watch out..." Sept 9th, 2006

2006-09-09T16:40:00.000-06:00

"You better watch out and check your sources for stating that Lynn Gustafson was convicted (of anything). Your sources are wrong and advertising false information on the internet that endangers a persons livelihood is procecutable by law under the defamation act. This is warning number one that you remove this site from the internet. The you will be from our lawyers."

-Anonymous, Hicksville AB

My Reply: Oh no, I'm so scared! Again, I say...the information was released by another group. Not me. If my sources are wrong, which they aren't, then why didn't you send your lawyers after them, when they very publically released the information? You didn't have a case then, and you don't have a case now...because slander doesn't include things that are TRUE.

_____WWW.THEGUZOO.COM_____ "I've Got Mail!"