THREE HILLS — The owner of a private zoo that has been ordered shut down in Central Alberta says he will reopen next week as an unlicensed facility.
Lynn Gustafson, who has operated GuZoo for 20 years near Three Hills, says he will only have domestic animals.
The Alberta government said Wednesday it would no longer issue the zoo a permit because an independent review found deficiencies “in all categories of its operations.”
GuZoo has been the focus of animal abuse concerns for years. The most recent outcry came in March when pictures that included one of a goat with its face covered in blood were posted on a Facebook page. Several complaints were made to the Alberta SPCA and the province. Gustafson said at the time he received death threats after the posting.
He says the zoo and its exotic animals brought many benefits to the area, including employment and an affordable place for families to visit.
“I’ve supplied the largest tourist attraction in Kneehill County,” Gustafson said Thursday. “I’ve provided an affordable, educational outing for thousands of Albertans. Where can you go for $30 or $40 for a family anymore?”
He also said the zoo’s 400 animals were all healthy — something he said the report acknowledged.
“Their report ... says from an overall perspective the collection appeared to be in good physical condition. To me that is the most important thing of the whole story,” Gustafson said.
“So some of the records weren’t quite right. Some of the pens had a pile of poop in the corner. The animals were healthy. That’s the main thing.”
Gustafson is particularly upset that he can’t challenge the decision not to renew his licence.
“When you’re ordered to do something, and there’s no chance to appeal it — even if you commit murder you’re allowed an appeal.”
Zoocheck Canada waged a long campaign to bring attention to what it said were substandard conditions at the zoo. The wildlife protection agency is pleased at the government’s decision.
“It’s long overdue, but better late than never,” said campaigns director Julie Woodyer. “After many years working on the Guzoo issue and hitting brick wall after brick wall, we’re so glad this sad situation may finally be brought to an end.”
Zoocheck released seven investigative reports into the animal farm, including one in 2007 that found more than 100 violations of provincial zoo standards, she said.
Gustafson has been given seven days to shut down the park.
It’s not known what will happen to the animals, but the Alberta government says it will work with Gustafson to remove them. Zoocheck has also offered to help.
The Calgary Zoo has indicated it may be able to take some of them.