Zoo Leaves Accrediting Organization Over Elephant Policy

PITTSBURGH (KDKA/AP) - The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium says it is dropping its membership in a major accrediting organization over a new safety policy limiting unrestricted contact with elephants.

The zoo said Tuesday that it had "a philosophical difference of opinion" over the Association of Zoos & Aquariums policy and will instead follow guidelines set by other zoo organizations.

The policy, scheduled to begin in June 2017, would limit unrestricted access between handlers and elephants to times of transport, research, calf management and medical treatment.

Zoo president Barbara Baker said such decisions should be made "by the professionals who are knowledgeable about the institution's programs and staff and specifically trained to handle our animals."

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals also weighed in on the matter. PETA has previously spoken out about the zoo's handling of elephants -- especially its use of dogs to herd the elephants.

"As long as the Pittsburgh Zoo is intent on scaring elephants and placing dogs and employees at risk, no kind or reasonable person should buy a ticket to support it," read part of PETA's statement.

The association said it was disappointed, and Pittsburgh is the only zoo to have left over the issue.

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