Yesterday, We spent the day at the Natural Bridge ...

Yesterday, We spent the day at the Natural Bridge Zoo with our son, daughter-in-law, our young grandchildren (a two year old and a baby), and their great-grandmother. It was so much fun. It is a small zoo, and so, don't expect elaborate, grand exhibits, but the animals are, for the most part in well spaced areas, with good toys and activities (when appropriate). The staff was very busy caring for the animals the whole time we were there, feeding, watering and cleaning, which was great to see, and a good way to help teach the children about responsibilities associated with keeping animals in captivity, including pets at home. The zoo was extremely interactive for the children, including an elephant ride where the staff was very friendly and helpful. I did feel bad that the elephant seems to be the only one there, since elephants are social animals, but she seemed to be cared for by the people who were working with her. The parakeet exhibit was awesome and most of the children and parents we saw loved it . even the 6 month old we had loved having the birds land on her hand.
This Zoo has a gotten a bad reputation, mostly because of people who clearly like to complain without providing a solution. Caring for animals is never easy, and the reality is that there are many animals in captivity who could not survive any place else, so instead of complaining HELP. Support local small zoo's. Volunteer, join the board, staff etc. Put your passions into action. stop sitting on the sidelines complaining and get out there and actually work in these places to help make them the best they can be.