Cow Milk doesn't Kill Baby Wildlife, Animals. Wives Tale. By Mary Cummins Animal Advocates

milk,cow milk,goat,esbilac,animal advocates,kmr,mary cummins,baby,formula,fox valley,los angeles,petag, cow,squirrels,wives tale,snopes,wildlife, @marycummins wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator, 

I posted this 20 years ago in 2001 but it disappeared. Here it is again. It's not just about baby squirrels but baby bunnies, squirrels, skunks, raccoons, opossums, bats....

Wives' tale busted - Cow milk does NOT kill baby squirrels. I've heard this ridiculous wives' tale for the past 20 years. People on the Internet will show you photos of dead baby squirrels. They will tell you that cow milk killed the babies. Cow milk did not kill the babies. The babies were fed improperly or died of some other illness or injury. 

The people telling you that cow milk kills squirrel babies will tell you to buy Petag's Esbilac puppy milk instead. Guess what the main ingredients are in Esbilac? You guessed it, cow milk. Below are the ingredients.

Esbilac Powder for Puppies Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Casein (milk), Whey Protein Concentrate (milk), Dried Skimmed Milk (milk), Butter Fat (milk), Monocalcium Phosphate, Egg Yolk, Calcium Carbonate, L-arginine , DL-methionine, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Lechithin, Monopotassium Phosphate, Magnesium Carbonate, Ferrous Sulfate, Salt, Dipotassium Phosphate, Calcium Pantothenate, Ascorbic Acid, Niacin Supplement, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Folic Acid, Vitamin E Supplement, Silicon Dioxide, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Citrate, Potassium Iodide, Biotin. 

The ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. Here oil is the main ingredient. Number two ingredient is "casein" which is from cow milk. Number three ingredient is "whey" which is from cow milk. Number four ingredient is "dried skimmed milk" which is from cow milk. Number five ingredient is "butter fat" which is the fat from cow milk. You can clearly see that cow milk is the main ingredient in animal and human baby formulas. (I just noticed they spelled "lecithin" wrong)

How did those babies in the  photos die? They did not die from cow milk, that's for sure. They most likely died because they were not warmed or hydrated before being fed. They were not fed enough formula or were fed too much. The formula was not introduced slowly which caused diarrhea which caused death. They were aspirated because they were fed improperly. The milk was not warmed, mixed properly or was rancid. Baby died from some other illness or injury. In one photo I could tell the babies died from squirrel pox which has nothing to do with formula. It's a virus.

People have been feeding orphaned baby wildlife and humans cow milk probably since they first started milking cows and goats around 9,000 - 7,000 BC. If cow milk killed babies, we'd have a ton of dead human and animal babies. In the UK they feed endangered orphan red squirrels cow or goat milk with honey and sometimes add an egg. They don't feed commercial formulas most likely because they don't care for the additives, preservatives, coloring agents, anti-clumping chemicals... 

Who is behind this wives' tale? I personally feel commercial formula producers are behind this ridiculous story. People who tell you that cow milk kills babies generally recommend Petag Esbilac or kitten formula KMR. Petag probably spread this rumor to sell more product and why not. Eight ounces of liquid Esbilac costs $2.78. A quart of cow milk (32 ounces) costs $2.60. Esbilac is four times as expensive as cow milk. They're making money telling this ridiculous story.

Two years ago I wrote this comparison chart of the various puppy, kitten formulas. As you can see Esbilac is the most expensive by far. They are the biggest selling puppy, kitten formula in the world. They seem to have a monopoly in the pet stores. http://www.animaladvocates.us/formulacomparison.pdf Make that had a monopoly. Things have changed.

Based on my years of experience I personally recommend Fox Valley. It is a much higher quality product, smells/tastes better and is cheaper. The only downfall is you have to order it online but it's well worth it. 

Composition of Petag Esbilac verses average cow milk. When I sent samples of Esbilac to the lab the amount of protein, fat, fiber and calories were way off what was written on the package. As you can see based on the labels Esbilac has a little more calories, fat and protein than regular cow milk. If you look at a breakdown of the ingredients, they have the same vitamins and minerals. 

Petag liquid Esbilac

protein 4.5% min

fat 6% min

water 85%

900 kcal/kg

 

Whole cow milk

protein 3.5% min

fat 3.4-4% min

water 87%

730 kcal/kg

 

I personally no longer use any Petag products because they do not recall their product when it's tainted or rancid. Legally FDA can't force them to recall their product. There have been at least three instances when their formula was killing babies and they refused to recall it. They kept selling the product even when they knew it was killing babies. I will never support a company that does that. More info on their tainted formula here http://www.animaladvocates.us/petagesbilac.htm

*Nowhere did I state that I feed cow milk to babies. I feed Fox Valley. I also have never told people to feed cow milk straight to babies. The point of the article was to show that cow milk does not kill babies. That is a myth. Most of the commercial formulas (Esbilac, KMR...) are made from cow milk. If you think cow milk kills babies, then you shouldn't use any commercial formulas as they are made out of cow milk.

Here's another wives tale. "Animal babies can't digest cow milk but they can digest goat milk. Cow milk has no nutrition."

The truth. Goat milk contain less lactose, 4.2% vs 5% for cow milk. All natural milk has lactose. Goat milk fat content is also much simpler for human, animal digestion than cow milk. The fat globules in goat milk are smaller and easier for our milk fat-dissolving enzyme — lipase— to break into smaller pieces as they pass through our gut. Goat milk may be easier for some humans and animals to digest.

Cow milk has similar nutrition as goat milk. "Nutritionally, goat milk and cow milk compare relatively well. Most vitamins and macronutrients are found in similar quantities. One cup of goat milk has 10 grams of fat compared to cow milk having eight grams of fat. This causes the goat milk to be higher in calories, about 19 more calories in that cup for a total of 168 calories. Being higher in fat, the goat milk is also higher in saturated fat, which we are cautioned to limit in our diets. In fact, that single cup of goat milk has one third of the saturated fat that you need in a day. However, goat milk has a little less sugar, 11 grams per cup versus cow milk having 12 grams per cup. Goat milk is higher in calcium, giving you 32 percent of your daily value in one cup while cow milk gives you 27 percent. Goat milk’s 9 grams of protein per cup is one gram higher than that of cow milk. Cow milk is higher in folate, selenium, and riboflavin as well as significantly higher in vitamin B12. Goat milk has more vitamin A, vitamin C (cow milk has none), vitamin B1, magnesium, and considerably more potassium. Both milks are roughly the same in their amount of vitamin D, cholesterol, and sodium. Overall, goat milk vs. cow milk are fairly equal nutritionally unless you are specifically looking for a higher or lower amount of any of these key nutrients. (Comparisons were made using whole cow milk via USDA nutritional values.)"

Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.

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P-22 Mountain Lion Will be Trapped and Assessed for Health, Behavior by Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates

P-22 mountain lion , Copyright Steve Winter photographer, fair use of copyright for non commercial education. Animal Advocates,Mary Cummins, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, griffith park

UPDATE: 03/06/23 P22 was buried in the Santa Monica mountains where he was born and raised. National Parks Service, California Department of Fish & Wildlife and local indigenous tribes were present for his burial. May he finally rest in peace. https://abc7.com/p-22-buried-santa-monica-mountains-mountain-lion/12920690

12/30/22 I've done more research into anticoagulant bait and wildlife organ failure. It's most likely a large part of the organ failure experienced by P22 was the result of chronic anticoagulant poison exposure. Even if the poison doesn't kill them directly, it kills them slowly indirectly. From Raptors Are The Solution https://www.raptorsarethesolution.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/RATS-fact-sheet-on-sublethal-impacts.pdf 100% of all mountain lions in the main collared mountain lion study had at least one type of poison in their system. https://whc.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/programs-projects/ca-conservation/mountain-lion-project  

P22's death makes one rethink the collared mountain lion study and wildlife crossings. So far the only thing the tracking study has shown us is that we're killing wildlife with our development, poison, cars and depredation permits. Maybe it'd be better if they died off from lack of genetic diversity in wild open spaces instead of luring them into the city to die by poison, cars, depredation permits... Wildlife crossings will only bring them, lure them in closer temporal and spatial proximity to their death and it won't be an easy or painless death. They'll be poisoned their entire life. I was accidentally poisoned by the same poison. It's painful. You feel sick all the time and are exhausted. We clearly will never stop using poison, driving cars, developing the land or shooting and killing mountain lions for eating a hobby farm chicken, goat or pet dog. 

12/22/22 Update about P22's remains returning to Los Angeles. They were going to go to the History Museum but now that's on pause while they consult with Native American tribes. FTR they were NEVER going to stuff, mount and display him. The remains are at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles county but they aren't doing anything but holding him.

"Miguel Ordeñana (wildlife biologist who first discovered P22 for the History Museum)

  · 

I would like to provide an update about the status of our beloved P22, in addition to some background in hopes to offer some clarity and accountability during this very difficult time. I first want to apologize that local Tribal communities, as well as other communities in L.A., were not proactively included in the permit application to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) to receive P-22’s remains, or contacted once the permit was secured. While the intent was to ensure that his remains would not be discarded, I realize the process was not clear or inclusive. The intention has always been to help preserve his cultural and conservation legacy, and gather input from communities for next steps once he was in LA, but I own my impact and am committed to learn from this. Conversations are currently happening with Chumash and Tongva tribal communities about what the next steps will be.

P-22's remains are currently with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where he was treated and compassionately euthanized. CDFW and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park veterinarians and staff performed a necropsy following his death to learn more about his condition as part of standard procedure. Resultant information can help conservation of imperiled mountain lion populations. His death and necropsy are painful to think about for myself and many people, especially for those who view him as a close friend or family member. Even as a scientist who appreciates the conservation value of these procedures, I have had a hard time processing it.

The CDFW has learned of the wishes some tribal members have to not use P-22’s remains for research. As a result, CDFW put a pause on releasing him to us or anyone while they reevaluate next steps.

NHM has offered to bring his remains back to LA so that he is kept safely until plans for next steps are finalized. We are talking with Tongva and Chumash tribal communities to determine immediate and next steps regarding the care and treatment of his remains. We would be honored and humbled with the opportunity to hold P-22’s remains during this process.

Thank you for your thoughts and efforts in making sure our goal of honoring his cultural and conservation legacy is done well for everyone who cares so deeply about P-22 and the future of mountain lions in Greater Los Angeles. I hope to be able to provide more concrete details soon."

From Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. 

  · 

"We are grateful for the tremendous amount of love and support for P-22 and want to acknowledge how deeply many people are feeling his loss. 

The Natural History Museum’s connection with P-22 began when one of our scientists saw his image on a trail camera that was set up to study wildlife. His time living in Griffith Park was incredibly meaningful because his story further connected L.A. with urban nature and inspired our community to take action for wildlife conservation. His death has affected all of us and we recognize and honor that people are impacted in different ways. 

This has been a particularly emotional and difficult time for our team members who have devoted the last decade to understanding and learning from P-22. Right now, we are in dialogue with Native communities, including multiple Chumash and Tongva Tribes, to help navigate this unprecedented situation. We want to ensure that multiple voices are heard around the respectful consideration of his remains, which includes the clear confirmation that the museum will NOT taxidermy or display his remains. 

We are committed to sharing his story and honoring his legacy and impact on our communities."

12/19/22 People have been asking me about my opinion of P22's euthanasia. I'll reply here.

When I first heard he'd attacked and killed a chihuahua being walked on a leash November 9, 2022 I suspected something was wrong. That is not normal behavior for P22 or any mountain lion. I spoke with big cat specialists. We thought he's probably suffering from rat poison again and maybe someone is feeding him or encouraging him to come closer to humans and pets. I thought maybe he could use some Vitamin K (antidote for poison) and hazing if he could be found.

December 8, 2022 P22 attacked another small dog then later approached a man with a large dog on video. That's when I knew something was very wrong and steps needed to be taken. I assumed he was maybe weak and suffering from the effects of anticoagulant rat poison again. By this time Fish & Wildlife had decided to tranquilize and capture P22 for assessment. Seth Riley and Jeff Sikich assisted because they had collared and been monitoring him for years. We later learned that P22 was probably hit by a car around this time. 

December 12, 2022 they tranq'd and captured P22 10:00 am or so close to the site of the car accident which was Dec 11, 2022 at 8:00 pm. Sarah Picchi stated they captured him at her home. She lives at 2319 St George St, Los Angeles, CA 90027 but the video showed 232* St George which may be an ADU behind the main house. The car accident was at about 4161 Los Feliz at Rowena map here about 2,600 sf away as the crow flies. 

Their initial observation was he looked okay though was missing some fur on his face. They took him in for assessment. At this point we're told P22 actually injured a woman while she protected her dog. She needed 30 stitches. If this were any mountain lion except P22, he would have been euthanized right then and there for this reason. Because he was a Hollywood celebrity the Department would not do that. They don't like being attacked. They've been attacked for many similar decisions in the past which is why they try to relocate or send to sanctuary. Oddly enough it's not legal to relocate healthy nuisance wildlife per Fish & Wildlife's own regulations yet they do it just so they won't be vilified, attacked and protested.

December 14, 2022 after the initial assessment they said he's not healthy enough to be released back to the wild. This is when talk of sanctuary or euthanasia started. As a Fish & Wildlife wildlife rehabilitator we are told the only options for unreleasable wildlife is euthanasia or education in a qualified sanctuary. They will only allow perfect looking specimens for education. At this point I thought the Department was inclined to euthanize based on their emphasis on "quality of life," "he's an old lion,"... At this point I was very skeptical of their assessment. 

December 17 they euthanized P22. This also happened to be my birthday so I'll definitely never forget the day of his death :-( At this point they stated he had chronic kidney, liver, heart disease, missing fur from mite induced mange, eye injury from a car collision and a "hernia." Most older animals will have "chronic" kidney, liver, heart disease. "Chronic" means "persisting over a long time." Our organs are never in peak condition as we age. I thought an eye injury is easily recoverable. I assumed the "hernia" was a genetic condition and probably an inguinal hernia in the lower abdomen. 

I assume all predators in Griffith Park have exposure to rat poison. Griffith Park poisons ground squirrels and gophers in the park and golf courses. So do the surrounding residences. We have treated MANY MANY MANY mammals suffering the effects of rat poison in Griffith Park. We have lobbied for the end of anticoagulant poison for years. I've written a ton of articles about this here. I almost died from accidentally exposure in 2003 while helping Fish & Wildlife cleanup dead poisoned ground squirrels and other animals in San Buenaventura. 

When an animal such as a coyote, bobcat or mountain lion eats an animal who ate rat poison, it suffers the same effects. They bleed to death internally and become infested with mites scratching off their skin leaving infected sores. We've taken in wildlife with mange in the park and all over Los Angeles for years. It causes their immune system to become depressed. This gives the naturally occurring parasites the ability to take over. This is why so many coyotes you see are missing fur. They end up scratching themselves causing wounds and infections. This causes their health to deteriorate. 

The poison also negatively affects the liver, kidneys and heart. The poison CAUSES liver, kidney and heart failure. When this happens wildlife becomes weak and searches for easy meals such as pets. This brings them closer to humans and cars. This is when they are most likely to be hit by a car. And it's not always a "reckless, speeding driver" that kills them. Wildlife don't follow the "look left, look right, look left again then cross the road" rule. They just cross the road. If you've ever almost run into a deer running across the road at night, you'll understand. If there are blind curves in the area such as where P22 lived, the chances of being hit are much higher.

Below is a before and after photo of P22 in 2014 from National Park Service when he was trapped to treat him for exposure to rodenticide. He'd lost 20% of his body weight at that time. He was treated with Vitamin K which is the antidote. They knew he'd be re-exposed when released.

This brings us back to P22's last diagnosis of a hernia. He did not have a regular hernia. He had a diaphragmatic hernia though they didn't state this specifically. A diaphragmatic hernia occurs in animals when they suffer blunt force trauma usually in a car accident. The force of the car hitting the animal forces the organs to burst through the diaphragm ending up in the cavity of the heart and lungs.  Generally the organs are damaged by the force of the impact and going through the diaphragm. It makes it more difficult for the lungs and heart to function. There is also damage to the point of impact which appears to be P22's right eye, head and side of the body. There was also evidence of skull fractures. 

The hernia diagnosis and the below CT scan changed everything for me. If this diagnosis and scan were legit, P22 had no real chance of survival based on his underlying condition, age and other issues. If he were a young healthy animal and his organs weren't damaged in the collision, he could have had surgery to repair the herniation. Dogs hit by car have had this surgery. Alas, that was not the case. He probably would have died within a week in the area where he was found if they didn't capture him. 

The most important take away from P22's death is that we humans caused all of his problems and his death. Our development caused him to be locked in by freeways in the park. Our poisons most likely caused his heart, liver and kidney failure. The poisons caused mites to take over his skin causing hair loss and skin issues. These things caused him to become ill and search for easier food to catch and eat. This put him in dangerous proximity to a vehicle which struck and ultimately would have killed him. We find bobcats, coyotes in this same condition after car strikes. 

We must learn from P22's death. We must be better guardians of our world and it's inhabitants. We must stop using anticoagulant poison. We must make sure development doesn't fracture and lock wildlife in or out of their territory. We must have safe wildlife crossings under, over or around major freeways. Most importantly we must care about the well being of others on this earth. We share this earth with other beings and need to start caring or they will all be gone eventually.

12/18/2022 Video of final Fish & Wildlife meeting about P22. Speakers: Director of Fish & Wildlife Chuck Bonham, Veterinarian Deanna Clifford, Dr Hendrick Nolan, San Diego Zoo, Dr Ed Hurt, Fish & Wildlife, Seth Riley, NPS. People were given ten minutes notice about the meeting. 

Chuck Bonham: (crying) P22 had a number of severe injuries and health problems. Dept approved to compassionately euthanize P22. I've felt entire weight of city of LA on my shoulders.We were making plans to place him in a sanctuary. Over this week we got more and more information. We relied on six vets at SD Zoo and four other specialty vets. Jeff Sikich on vacation. We spoke with elected officials. We put P22 in this environment. We can fix this so they can have freedom to roam.

Dr Deanna Clifford: (crying) We saw some trail cam images where he looked thin and coat was thin. Dec 12 we had reports of lion struck by vehicle. Sikich was able to locate by signal on collar. located near where hit by car. He was captured and we contacted LA Zoo. LA Zoo stabilized and we sent to SD Zoo for their CT scan on Monday. 

Dr. Hendrick Nollens: SD Zoo. We stabilized him to put under anesthesia and did full exam. We saw acute injuries from vehicle strike, fractured skull bone, right eye injury, skin injury, herniation of abdominal organs into chest (my comment:diaphragmatic hernia) . Here are some images.Herniation caused by impact from vehicle strike. This reduces lung volume, breathing.He had preexisting conditions, weight loss, stage 2 kidney failure, advanced liver disease, heart disease, failure, had mites. 

P22, Animal Advocates,Mary Cummins, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, griffith park

I put the photos side by side.

P22, Animal Advocates,Mary Cummins, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, griffith park
, ct scan, xray, hernia, organs, lungs, heart, diaphragm, liver, kidney, mountain lion

Seth Riley: (crying) P22 has an extraordinary legacy.

Chuck Bonham: (crying)I know my decision is causing a lot of pain right now. I'm really sorry for the pain. I hope people can find hope. I felt the weight of the city on my shoulders this week. We must do better for these animals. 6:45-13:06 then 33:08-34:30.

Chuck Bonham, Director California Department of Fish & Wildlife

Questions:

(Not a speaker) Beth Pratt: (wanted to ask a question and was on mute but found a way to unmute herself. People wanting to ask questions were supposed to do so via writing in chat only). Let's make it right so it doesn't happen again. 

Dr D Clifford: Clotting times were normal, not clinically ill from rodenticide toxicity at that time. Post mortem tests more reliable.

P22 went to sleep at 9:00 am.

His body will be used for science. He will come back to LA and the LA History museum. 

 https://wildlife-ca-gov.zoom.us/rec/play/2PBf8B-Fm5FJco1OAWKnTnY8jB2MVYNjKuL2MY_xMDmptXdHn-9p2H00-SW498QqTClz9Ll5MYM8eTKp.5XSDcHJZJ980A-h2?continueMode=true&_x_zm_rtaid=PkNFfM4HQVCDJj_yTdMMpg.1671315875619.f6ea42088f259c24e67a31927a97428d&_x_zm_rhtaid=93

12/17/2022 As we sadly predicted P22 has been euthanized :-( He had injuries and illness. He was euthanized this morning at the San Diego Zoo. 

"The trauma to his internal organs would require invasive surgical repair," officials said.

Wildlife officials said P-22 also had several pre-existing illnesses, including irreversible kidney disease, chronic weight loss, extensive parasitic skin infection over his entire body and localized arthritis.

"P-22's advanced age, combined with chronic, debilitating, life-shortening conditions and the clear need for extensive long-term veterinary intervention left P-22 with no hope for a positive outcome," officials said. 

https://abc7.com/los-angeles-mountain-lion-euthanized-p-22-p-22-captured-p22-future/12583735/

12/15/2022 Seems when P22 attacked another dog December 8 he ended up injuring a woman who got 30 stitches. Below are the reports. Fish & Wildlife can't release "nuisance" wildlife legally. The main reason is legal liability. If they know an animal is causing personal injury or damage, they could be legally liable. Hopefully P22 can go to a sanctuary and happily live out his life. Still waiting for medical and behavior assessment results.

12/14/2022 Wildlife officials have stated that P22 will not be released back to the wild.Nuisance wildlife cannot legally be released back to the wild. He will either go to sanctuary or be euthanized if his condition is fatal.

Official update from Fish & Wildlife 30 minute Zoom video.

https://wildlife-ca-gov.zoom.us/rec/play/1kEZnqoQNPHqreWI56bUZ0fcWA7nNoVkt8NQsfQAqDY1ugswlovzl21MlmnvMCOVtz_JuoL0-kmt96z6.rEVWNzf8ZubiFsBO?autoplay=true

Worst moderator ever! She gave questions to the speakers which were previously answered. The moderator's job is to weed out repeat questions. Jordan Traverso jordan.traverso@ca.wildlife.gov Ashton Hooker is another media contact ashton_hooker@nps.gov

Ed Pert, Regional Manager, Fish Wildlife CDFW: Concerning behavior near humans and dogs on leash with people. One human was injured. He's recently been in Los Feliz, Silver Lake urban areas instead of deeper in the park. 

Deana Clifford DFW Veterinarian Biologist: Results of initial health examination. Underweight, thin fur coat consistent with anticoagulant bait poisoning, right eye injury consistent with hit by car. Gave fluids, anti-inflams, antibiotic, antiparasitic. Waiting for some lab results.

Jeff Sikich, NPS:  Seth Riley, NPS: History of P22.

Ed Pert: Outcome won't be released back into wild in his current condition. Trying to leave everything on the table. Will try to find good sanctuary. Wild adult male mountain lions don't do well in captivity.Will have to evaluate. If health assessment very poor, will consider euthanasia.

Deana Clifford: Follow up exam is next with CT scan for eye injury. Planned later this week. May take few weeks to fully understand all issues. Multiple labs pending 2-5 days. We're also monitoring his behavior. P22 is older especially for male in the wild. He's 12 years old.

Seth Riley: First time where we captured an animal and brought in for health assessment. We have treated some lions for mange in the past in the field, including P22. 

Deana Clifford: Kidney failure, cancer, more significant trauma, head trauma would cause us to euthanize him. That's why we're doing a CT scan. Old cats get old cat diseases. 

Ed Pert: A team of people will help us make the final decision, NPS, F&W, Director, Veterinarians, maybe outside people. Someone reported mountain lion hit by car at Los Feliz Blvd and Rowena car accident with mountain lion. P22 was very close to that area at the time but not positive it was him.(there are no other big cats in that area!)

Deana Clifford: Don't want to release where P22 is located today because don't want to be distracted. 

Seth Riley: P22 didn't run when we darted him. He stayed in the same place. 

https://ktla.com/news/local-news/p-22-faces-uncertain-future-will-not-return-to-the-wild-and-could-be-euthanized/

12/13/2022 So far we know he has mange which is common for predator mammals in this area.They use a lot of rodenticide to kill gophers and ground squirrels in Griffith Park. It works its way up the food chain. 

https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/all-options-for-declining-mountain-lion-p-22-are-pretty-bad-experts-say/3054500/

https://laist.com/news/climate-environment/whats-next-for-p-22-after-capture

https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2022-12-13/commentary-the-sad-plight-of-p-22-los-angeles-mountain-lion

12/12/2022 P22 has been tranquilized and captured. He will undergo a health and behavioral evaluation. So far he looks okay.

https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/health-evaluation-underway-for-mountain-lion-p-22

P22 captured in a Los Feliz backyard.

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-12-12/p-22-captured-in-backyard-of-los-feliz-home-resident-says

ORIGINAL: We were actually just talking with mountain lion experts about P-22's behavior after he killed the chihuahua. We were talking about trying to find out why he would attack a tiny dog. Is he hungry, sick, injured, have people been feeding him, should he be hazed? Wildlife Officials have decided to trap and assess P22. We will keep you updated on the status. 

If he is dying, they will euthanize him. Because he attacked a chihuahua near humans, he can't legally be released. It's illegal to released nuisance wildlife. If he's just getting older, he could legally go to a sanctuary if the powers that be believe it's in his best interest. We have many big cat sanctuaries in California. Some of them have very large enclosures that consist of many acres. 

"The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and National Park Service (NPS) announced plans today to capture the world-famous mountain lion P-22 and bring him in for a health evaluation. Following that evaluation, CDFW veterinarians and NPS biologists will determine the best next steps for the animal while also prioritizing the safety of the surrounding communities.

P-22 has been reported near human dwellings close to his habitat in Griffith Park. Reports include sightings, video camera recordings and physical encounters with the lion. P-22 is a remarkably old cat in the wild and, after being deemed responsible for killing a leashed pet last month, may be exhibiting signs of distress.

This is an unprecedented situation in which a mountain lion has continued to survive in such an urban setting. As P-22 has aged, however, the challenges associated with living on an island of habitat seem to be increasing and scientists are noting a recent change in his behavior. This underscores the consequences of a lack of habitat connectivity for mountain lions and all wildlife.

CDFW and NPS do not require assistance to capture and evaluate P-22 and ask that members of the public refrain from any involvement in the effort.

CDFW and NPS have long partnered together on issues related to P-22 and have been involved with him most of his life. Both agencies are actively monitoring the situation and evaluating the most humane options available for a plan of action for the lion and the community in which he lives."

https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/california-department-of-fish-and-wildlife-and-national-park-service-team-up-to-evaluate-p-221

@AnimalAdvUSA

@NatlParkService

@CaliforniaDFW

Pics of me with P22 at the groundbreaking for the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing.

Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates, p22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, los angeles, california, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife, wildlife rescue, @animaladvusa @marycummins 

Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates, p22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, los angeles, california, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife, wildlife rescue, @animaladvusa @marycummins 

Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.

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Animal Advocates Report About Griffith Park Pony Rides and Petting Zoo by Mary Cummins

griffith park pony rides, petting zoo, animal advocates, mary cummins, los angeles, california, griffith park, pony rides, neglect, overgrown hooves, city, parks, recreation

UPDATE: 01/09/2023 "Historic Structures at Griffith Park may Hamper City Plans" https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2023/01/08/historic-structures-at-griffith-park-pony-ride-may-hamper-citys-plans

No, they won't. Whenever a historic structure was in the way of new development plans the city just moves the building. There's a historic building on USC campus that has been moved four times because of development. The city does the same. A structure doesn't have to stay on the land and be used for original purpose. Such idiots.

01/08/2023 The pony ride equipment is up for sale. The original post was removed but here's a screenshot. 

12/17/2022 There will be a protest for and against the pony rides tomorrow, Sunday, December 18, 2022 from 11-2:00 pm at the pony rides. It'll probably be the last big protest before they close 12/21. 

In the meantime Steve Weeks and some of his supporters have been lying to the press. Weeks said it is "the best run pony ride in the nation." :-D I inspected the pony ride. It most certainly is not. See my report below. One of his supporters said "the pony ride is for poor and disabled people." False. You have to pay for a short pony ride not to mention the cost of getting there. There are no facilities for disabled people to ride the ponies. "Mr Griffith donated the park with the express intent it be used for pony rides." Griffith J Griffith donated the park in 1896. No mention of pony rides. I could go on and on with more falsehoods but why.

12/11/22 "In a memo to the department on Dec. 6, 2022, Recreation and Parks General Manager Kim denied that animal rights protests at the pony ride location — and at the homes of L.A. city employees and the homes of the operator’s family  —  influenced the city to pull the plug."

Kim cited Sachar’s report, saying two ponies died in March, one in April and one in August but the city was not notified of their deaths until Sachar’s report in September. The delay in reporting the deaths to the city — in one case six months — was the main reason the city closed the pony rides, he said.

https://www.sgvtribune.com/2022/12/08/l-a-is-closing-griffith-parks-pony-rides-not-for-neglect-but-bad-paperwork/amp/

12/10/22 Steve Weeks stated he offered to give the pony ride concession, all animals, equipment to another operator for free. Parks & Rec declined his offer. This shows it's not this specific operator that is the problem but pony rides in general. 

Ponies being bought from Steve Weeks and rehomed already.

12/08/22 This article goes into the reason why the City ended the pony rides. Seems there was a new veterinarian inspection and report made to the City, see linked below. Interesting it was done right before the contract renewal date. Makes sense. 

https://www.yahoo.com/video/im-going-miss-place-customers-140005907.html

Below is the veterinary report.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ou4k0zXfkeLdjcvocUpNyqWjzaygIkka/view?usp=sharing

12/07/22 There will be a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting December 15, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. about the pony rides. No other information provided as yet. 

Four ponies allegedly died within the last year. City wasn't notified timely allegedly. There is some veterinarian report about it maybe but I haven't seen it as of yet. I'll post it when I find it. In the meantime here is a veterinarian report from Dr Rachel Sachars DVM CVA February 2021. Here is a summary, "Dr. Sachar’s report identified various issues requiring immediate attention as well as other areas for ongoing improvement. Most notably, some ponies were in need of veterinary care for saddle sores, farrier care, or dental care. Additionally, violations of California Health and Safety Codes were found associated with animal identification protocols and record keeping, as well as fence enclosure disrepair." 

https://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2021/21-1457_rpt_drp_2-18-22.pdf

12/06/22 Steve Weeks has already sold all the ponies allegedly to appropriate horse owning homes. Only three "green" ponies that are not meant to be ridden by children are left. You can still inquire about those ponies. I have no idea if they are Griffith Park Pony Ride ponies or not. I saw many experienced horse owners step forward to offer homes to the ponies on Facebook. They appear to all been spoken for within 24 hours. 

ORIGINAL: 12/04/22 The City of Los Angeles has finally decided not to renew Steve Weeks' contract for the Griffith Park Pony Rides. It terminates December 21, 2022. The city's decision was the result of many concerns beyond protests and complaints by animal rights activists. The City of Los Angeles has gotten away from cruel practices against animals on its properties and under its jurisdiction within the last 25 years. This is evidenced by changes at the animal shelters, zoos, circus permits, animals in entertainment permits, rodeo permits... 

2021 the City stated it had received years of complaints and wanted to get away from using ponies for entertainment. This was before the recent protests by animal activists. From a final October 2022 Motion,

"The concession agreement with the current operator of the Pony Rides is set to expire on

December 22, 2022, with the option of renewing for another year. While the decision to extend

this contract falls within the jurisdiction of the Department of Recreation and Parks and does not

need approval from the City Council, at this time, we do not believe the City of Los Angeles can

in good faith move forward with the extension of this contract without understanding the

implications this will have on the health and well-being of the ponies and without considering a

new path forward that does not include the continued use of these ponies for entertainment."

https://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2021/21-1457_misc_10-25-22.pdf

The City had wanted to entertain other opportunities at Griffith Park for the community. Many cities like Santa Monica got rid of their pony rides and petting zoos. Instead they offer family friendly educational entertainment that is available to everyone. The Griffith Park Pony Rides and Petting Zoo were not cheap. Parties also had to pay to have events on the property. 

Notice from the city about the closure,

"PUBLIC NOTICE Re: Pony Rides at Griffith Park.

The Griffith Park Pony Ride concession contract will expire on December 21, 2022. After careful consideration, the Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP) has decided not to extend the contract.  Pony rides will therefore be closed to the public beginning December 22, 2022.  At the request of the City Council, the Department will undertake a community input process to re-imagine the recreational and educational activities offered at this location in Griffith Park to continue providing youth and families an affordable and enjoyable experience."

Steve Weeks statement about the closure: 

"NEWS FROM GRIFFITH PARK PONY RIDES

It is with much sadness that I announce that Griffith Park Pony Rides will be ceasing operations December 21, 2022. I have received a letter from Los Angeles Recreation and Parks stating that our contract will not be renewed. After 74 years serving the children and parents of Los Angeles, this iconic institution will be closed forever by order of the City. 

You have all followed our fight against these few radical animal rights activists. Despite our year long fight to answer the untrue statements of these individuals, our efforts were not heard. This was the city decision and not the pony rides choice. I will post more at a later date giving greater details. I just wanted you to hear the news from me. This group has been loyal friends of the pony rides and i thank you.  In the days ahead I will be attempting to find forever homes for our many ponies. I am determined to find homes for our ponies with qualified horsepeople who will care as much about our ponies as I do. If you are interested in provding a home please message me. More to come.

Steve Weeks" This is Steve Weeks' email if you are interested in one of the ponies saweeks2@gmail.com

Weeks buds are stating this has to do with money. They think someone bribed a council member so they could have the space for a wealthy person on the east coast to do "touristy" things. Other Weeks buds are saying two council members are vegans so that's why they are against pony rides. Still others said this was the work of PETA. Weeks buds think they are coming after all horse owners to make horse ownership, riding illegal. The real reason is exactly what the city stated. Even before protesters were involved the city wanted to get away from using animals for entertainment. That's why the city got rid of elephants in circuses, animal circus permits, rodeo permits...

FTR Steve Weeks is the more recent owner of the contract since 2016 I believe. There have been many problems at the pony rides over many years since it first opened in 1948. 

February 2022 assessment by third party horse veterinarian ordered by city found problems.

https://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2021/21-1457_rpt_drp_2-18-22.pdf

2016 City contract for the pony rides.

https://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2016/16-1005_rpt_MAYOR_09-06-2016.pdf

Below is a fair and privileged report by Animal Advocates about the Griffith Park Pony Rides and Petting Zoo made to government agency the City of Los Angeles and other government agencies. These are just a few of the concerns. None of them are the reason they closed the pony rides. City just doesn't want to be involved in animals as entertainment.

http://animaladvocates.us/Griffith%20Park%20Pony%20Rides%20and%20Petting%20Zoo%20report_by%20Mary%20Cummins%2005312022.pdf

Mary Cummins
Animal Advocates Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
645 W 9^th St #110140
Los Angeles, CA 90015
www.AnimalAdvocates.us

 

May 30, 2022

City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks
221 N Figueroa Street Suite 350
Los Angeles, CA 90012

RE: Griffith Park Pony Rides & Petting Zoo

I'm Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. I've been involved in animal issues for over 35 years in Los Angeles. I've gone through the Police Academy and Humane Academy to become a Humane Officer and investigate animal cruelty and violations. I've worked positively with the City of Los Angeles for over 20 years including on the Prop F Committee and getting the current Los Angeles Animal Services Wildlife Policy passed in 2004 (Ref. 1).

May 29, 2022 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. I visited the Griffith Park Pony Rides and Petting Zoo (GPPR). The following is a report of my visit and a summary of my research including attached/linked photos, videos and references.

1. Petting Zoo

a. Sheep

The sheep's hooves were overgrown and needed trimming (Photo 1, 2). This is link to overgrown (left) and properly trimmed (right) hooves https://cdn.outdoorhappens.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Diagram-of-Hoof-anatomy-tom-milner-1024x405.jpg . His coat needed to be cleaned because he had feces matted to his wool. His coat needed to be sheared. This is a photo of Larry the same sheep from the official website of the GPPR.  https://www.griffithparkponyride.com/petting-zoo You can see that Larry is clean, shorn and his hooves are properly trimmed. This shows that the owner knows how to care for sheep but has chosen not to give proper care. There are photos of children hugging animals with their faces touching the animals in GPPR’s which is why they must be clean. This is a violation of California Penal Code 597, not providing proper veterinary and other care (Ref. 2). Also a violation of the Animal Welfare Act because these are exhibit animals under USDA permit Cert # 93-C-1163 Cust #502682 (Ref. 3).

b. Goats

The goats' hooves were overgrown and needed to be trimmed (Photo 3). Violation of CA 597 and AWA.

c. Rabbits

The rabbits' water bottle was empty. I asked the staff to refill the water bottle. They removed the totally empty bottle and refilled it (Photo 4). As soon as they did all three rabbits quickly drank water which means they were dehydrated. Violation of CA 597 and AWA.

d. Lack of Zoonotic Disease Control, Handwashing Stations

The item of greatest concern in the petting zoo and pony rides was the lack of concern for zoonotic diseases. Zoonotic diseases are passed from animals to humans such as SARS-CoV-2, plague, West Nile and rabies. Every year children are sickened from touching animals in petting zoos, pony rides with some children dying (Ref. 4). Petting zoo animals can carry E. coli, Cryptosporodium, Salmonella, ring worm and more. Humans can contract the diseases by hand feeding animals, petting animals, touching the fence rails, sitting on something the animals touched, the ground...

The California Department of Food and Agriculture offers hand washing information and signs for places such as county fairs when one would encounter agricultural animals (Ref. 5).

There should be warning signs at the entrance and exit of the petting zoo along with handwashing instructions and stations. Everyone who enters the petting zoo or even just touches the fencing must wash their hands. Children were hugging the sheep with feces on its coat. They were feeding the animals out of their hands. They were given brushes to brush the animals. The animals were licking the children. These same children will walk a few feet away and eat food with their hands. Many states have Hand Sanitation Laws for animal contact for these reasons (Ref. 6).

Food, drink, baby pacifiers, baby bottles, strollers, wagons should not be allowed in the petting zoo area. They were allowed in that area. Here is a sign from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (Ref. 7).

The City is exposing itself to lawsuits from sick and dying children besides harming its public image. Violation of the Health & Safety Code.

e. Animals in and Near the Food Preparation, Dining Areas

A staff member had two goats on leashes in the food preparation and dining areas, https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/86411826_3496341357073569_330790903599857664_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=9267fe&_nc_ohc=lIqmN3sHNfwAX85Osm0&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&oh=00_AT9OMY0A5JrIO-XDKRaZB0P1RXXtfK94WNACX1kfetDF-A&oe=62B992B3    . This photo came from the GPPR website. These people even had a non-service dog. I witnessed the exact same. The three pony corrals are too close to the multiple food prep and dining areas. Animals can't be within at least 20 feet at the minimum of food prep or dining areas per California Food Safety and Health Codes.

Violation of California Retail Food Code, Sections: 114259, 114259.1, 114259.4, 114259.5 no animals are allowed in food preparation or dining areas except some service dogs, patrol dogs and pet dogs in certain situations (Ref. 8). California Civil Service Code, Section 54.1, 54.25 covers these exceptions (Ref. 9). Weeks has no experience operating a business which preps and serves food.

The issue is again zoonotic diseases. Children pet a goat, pony then eat food with their hands which could transfer disease. It's very possible that many children have already been sickened but their parents assumed it came from the food and not the animals. In cases where many people were sickened investigations revealed the exact cause of the infections and knew it was the petting zoo and not the food.

2. Pony Rides

a. Algae, Scum in Water Troughs

Algae were visible in all of the horse water troughs, (Photo 5). Violation of 597 for not providing proper care, not providing potable water.

b. Loud Noises Used to Scare Ponies to Run

The staff members told the children not to yell or scream at the ponies. Then the staff members ran behind the ponies and made loud clapping sounds that sounded like a whip being cracked in order to get the ponies to run. They also yelled and made other loud noises at the animals. The staff did this every time they wanted the ponies to run. This is harassment and cruel treatment which is a violation of CA 597. I have many more videos and photos. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2CA15u9cXI&feature=youtu.be

c. Ponies too Close to Food Preparation, Dining Areas

There are four pony corrals, one large one which is the main track, one small carousel and two smaller ones called Party Corrals which are generally rented out for birthday parties, see GPPR website. https://www.griffithparkponyride.com/birthday-parties They offer the Party Corrals with cooking area, picnic tables and ponies. Again, animals can't be within 20 feet of food prep or dining. The animals are directly next to the food prep and dining areas (Photo 6).

The main corral is within 20 feet of the food prep, dining area of a Party Corral. People were seen eating and drinking right next to the small carousel. There are two small corrals in the two Party Corrals which have food prep and dining. I witnessed ponies in the two Party Corrals. The goats are defecating in the food prep, dining area. The ponies defecate in the Party Corrals. Violation of Health & Safety Codes.

3. Stephen "Steve" Allen Weeks, Los Angeles Pony Rides Inc, Traditional Equitation School, The Loan Consultants Inc.

Per the 2016 Request for Proposals For the Operation and Maintenance of the GRIFFITH PARK PONY RIDE CONCESSION "Mr. Stephen Weeks, owner of Los Angeles Pony Rides, Inc., has twenty-two (22) years of experience in the horse and pony business. For the past six (6) years (since 2010), he has owned the Traditional Equitation School (TES) and developed a pony ride and lesson program serving children as young as four (4)." This statement does not appear to be true.

Stephen Allen Weeks controls Los Angeles Pony Rides Inc. an active California corporation # 3867428 (Ref. 10). Weeks is the CEO, CFO, Secretary and Director.

Traditional Equitation School was a California corporation # 1302280 which was terminated in 2012. Weeks is not the current owner. He owned it 2010-2017. http://www.traditionaleq.com/home https://www.ridetes.com/ The business claims "TES is the oldest and largest continually operating horseback riding school in Los Angeles." TES was established in 1979 at Bell Canyon Equestrian Center in Canoga Park, California, by Patricia Kinnaman and the late Lilian Van Dahn. TES moved to the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in 1986. The TES programs did not change from the ownership by Kinnaman to Weeks. They offered horses and no ponies to children. The minimum age was six not four. http://web.archive.org/web/20140315000000*/traditionaleq.com In 2017 it was sold to Tori English a movie editor. In a 2020 lawsuit an employee claimed the horses were unfit and unsafe to ride. Weeks history appears to include owning and breeding race horses.

Stephen Weeks owns The Loan Consultants Inc https://loanconsultants.com/ California corporation 1163479 which was suspended by FTB. The business claims to be "The Oldest and Largest Loan Affiliate Program in the World." They offer a two day class to become a loan broker for about $13,800. They don't bother to tell students you actually need a license. Based on the complaints I personally believe the school is akin to Trump University.

Weeks stated he was the founder of Sterling Bank of Beverly Hills. That does not match up with records. Earlier when he ran for political office he stated he was merely a shareholder. Weeks stated he ran two other “successful” finance corporations, Weeks & Associates, Century Capital Corp. Century is suspended. I can find no Department of Real Estate licenses for Weeks or his businesses. You need a license to be a loan agent.

Issues of greatest concern are the multiple personal injury lawsuits against Los Angeles Pony Rides, Griffith Park Pony Rides (under Weeks) and Traditional Equitation School. It appears children were injured and sued the companies. The Defendants appear to have settled then the Plaintiffs dismissed the cases which is normal protocol in PI cases. The Loan Consultants and Stephen Weeks were also sued. There is a restraining order granted against a Stephen A. Weeks which I believe is Weeks. I will be going to the courthouse to get the full record to be certain as it’s not available online unlike the others. Below are a few of those cases taken from Los Angeles County Superior Court http://lacourt.org .

WEEKS STEPHEN A.         Civil Harassment (Unlimited)      06/20/2012         Michael D. Antonovich Antelope Valley Courthouse                Case Number:  MS008721 SAMUEL NAVARRO VS STEPHEN A. WEEKS
Plaintiff Navarro got a restraining order on a Stephen A Weeks.

WEEKS STEPHEN Case Number:  BC406289 STEWART PRITIKIN VS THE LOAN CONSULTANTS INC ET AL 2009 Wrongful Termination.

WEEKS STEPHEN A.         Other Compl-not Tort or Complex (Unlimited)   03/07/1996         Stanley Mosk Courthouse Case Number:  BC145770 ENRICO P. TUVERA, ET AL VS THE LOAN CONSULTANTS, INC., ET AL

LOS ANGELES PONY RIDES INC., GRIFFITH PARK PONY RIDES       Civil (Limited)     08/12/2019         Spring Street Courthouse Case Number:  19STLC07449 KOURTNEY HOLMES, ET AL. VS LOS ANGELES PONY RIDES, INC. Case Type:  Other Personal Injury/Property Damage/Wrongful Death (Limited Jurisdiction) Case Number:  20STCV13934. A seven year old girl who’d never ridden a pony or horse previously was riding a fast pony in the Griffith Park corral on her birthday. The corral fence collapsed which startled the pony causing the pony to rear up and the girl fell off. Her foot was stuck in the stirrup so she was dragged upside down around the track on the ground while the pony continued to run. The staff had to chase down the pony then they took a while to get her untangled from the pony while she screamed. Witnesses were also screaming. Case was settled. I can provide a copy of the complaint, answer and settlement order.

TRADITIONAL EQUITATION SCHOOL        Other Employment Complaint Case (Unlimited)                04/09/2020         Stanley Mosk Courthouse            26 Case #20STCV13934 TES is allegedly the DBA for Tori’s Equitation School who is Victoria English. They board horses, give riding lessons. Employee Kelly Fielding sued for multiple labor law violations. I can provide a copy of the complaint and answer.

TRADITIONAL EQUITATION SCHOOL        Other Personal Injury/Property Damage/Wrongful Death (Unlimited)    07/19/2006                Burbank Courthouse     

TRADITIONAL EQUITATION SCHOOL        Other PI/PD/WD (Unlimited)      07/19/2006         Glendale Courthouse    

TRADITIONAL EQUITATION SCHOOL        Other Personal Injury/Property Damage/Wrongful Death (Unlimited)    02/17/2004                Stanley Mosk Courthouse           

TRADITIONAL EQUITATION SCHOOL        Other PI/PD/WD (Unlimited)      02/17/2004         Burbank Courthouse     

TRADITIONAL EQUITATION SCHOOL        PI Other -DO NOT USE (Unlimited)           04/28/1995         Burbank Courthouse     

TRADITIONAL EQUITATION SCHOOL        Other PI/PD/WD (Unlimited)      05/15/1991         Burbank Courthouse

Some of the lawsuits against TES may be from before or after Stephen Weeks owned the business.

Weeks has a history in Los Angeles. He ran for City Controller in 1981 against James Hahn and lost by a wide margin. He ran for County Tax Assessor in 1982 and again lost. During those campaigns he made false accusations against his opponents. Recently Steve Weeks posted on Facebook “These militant animal rights protesters are lying to the public about the welfare of our ponies to promote their own agenda of eliminating horse ownership.” “These are militant protesters, many of which are being paid to picket us.” “The Park Rangers and LAPD often cite and arrest these people.” “ALL HORSE OWNERS in Los Angeles County face an imminent threat. A small group of the most radical animal rights activists are picketing and protesting weekly at the pony rides. They belive that to own or ride a horse is slavery. That no horse should be owned or ridden.” “The pony rides are  just the protesters first step. They could soon be at any training barn or boarding facility trying to ban even private horse ownership and riding.”

The protesters are not being paid. They aren’t trying to eliminate horse ownership or horse riding. Weeks is clearly trying to incite horse owners against protesters for his own business agenda of making money.

Based on my inspection and research I don't believe that Stephen Weeks is the best candidate to run the Griffith Park Pony Rides and Petting Zoo. He has not been honest with the Commission. I feel there are other activities that could be offered in the park which would not be cruel to animals, would not be a danger to public health and safety, would not harm the City’s public image, would be more beneficial to children and the citizens of Los Angeles while still providing income to the City.

Sincerely,

Mary Cummins
Mary at AnimalAdvocates.us
Animal Advocates Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
www.facebook.com/AnimalAdvocatesUSA

cc: County of Los Angeles Public Health
USDA Inspector for Petting Zoo permit
California Department of Food and Agriculture
michael.a.shull@lacity.org, matthew.rudnick@lacity.org, rachel.ramos@lacity.org, paul.koretz@lacity.org, contactcd4@lacity.org, councilmember.blumenfield@lacity.org, councilmember.krekorian@lacity.org, councilmember.buscaino@lacity.org, councilmember.kevindeleon@lacity.org, councilmember.lee@lacity.org, councilmember.bonin@lacity.org, councilmember.harris-dawson@lacity.org, rap.commissioners@lacity.org

References

1.       Curriculum Vitae Mary Cummins http://animaladvocates.us/Mary%20Cummins%20Animal%20Advocates%20resume%20curriculum%20vitae.pdf

 

2.        CA Penal Code 597 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&sectionNum=597

 

3.       Animal Welfare Act
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalwelfare/sa_awa

 

4.       Articles: Children and Diseases from Petting Zoos
2019 Child Dies from San Diego County Fair Animal https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/news/tn-dpt-me-oc-fair-hand-washing-safety-20190701-story.html
Food Safety News, The Petting Zoo Problem https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2012/11/the-petting-zoo-problem/
CDC: Stay Healthy at Animal Exhibits https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/specific-groups/stay-healthy-animal-exhibits.html
Can People Get Sick from Going to Petting Zoos? Yes. https://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/files/2008/04/JSW-MA2-Pet-Zoo1.pdf
WebMD: Kids & Petting Zoos https://www.webmd.com/baby/features/kids-petting-zoos

 

5.       California Department of Food & Agriculture, Animals and Human Safety
https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/FairsAndExpositions/Information/Animal_Exhibit_Signage.asp

 

6.       Center for Disease Control, Animal Sanitation
https://www.cdc.gov/phlp/docs/menu-animalsanition.pdf   https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/specific-groups/stay-healthy-animal-exhibits.html

7.       California Department of Food & Agriculture, Animal Fairs, Handwashing Signs
https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/FairsAndExpositions/Documents/Animal_Exhibit_Signage/Entry_transition_area_signage_DHS.pdf

8.       California Retail Food Code, Sections: 114259
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&division=104.&title=&part=7.&chapter=8.&article=6.

9.       California Civil Service Code, Section 54.1
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&sectionNum=54.1.

 

10.   California Corporation Search
https://bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov/search/business

hthttp://www.newspapers.com

Photos

See pdf above

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Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.

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