Ailing, Lonely Elephant in Zoo Is the Focus of International Youth EffortFor Immediate Release:
For Immediate Release:
February 7, 2011
Contact:
Shakira Croce 757-622-7382
Edmonton, Alberta — Members of the Edmonton City Council will be receiving a deluge of Valentine's Day cards, but the message conveyed in the cards is anything but adoring of the city government. That's because members of peta2—the world's largest youth animal rights organization—have begun sending council members cards that read, "Have a ♥ for Lucy This Valentine's Day." The move is the latest action in peta2's campaign to have Lucy, the ailing and lonely elephant at Edmonton's Valley Zoo, moved to a warm-weather sanctuary. The cards go on to explain how the 35-year-old elephant is suffering in an inadequate facility that is located in a climate wholly unsuited to elephants. It is estimated that hundreds of cards will be sent.
"It's unconscionable for Edmonton city officials to stand by and watch as this highly intelligent and social animal wastes away in solitary confinement," says peta2 Director Dan Shannon. "We hope that our Valentine's Day cards will touch council members' hearts and motivate officials to relocate Lucy before it's too late."
Lucy suffers from arthritis and chronic foot problems—both of which are leading causes of death among captive elephants—as well as respiratory problems and behaviour that indicates severe psychological distress. She lives in pain and has suffered in solitary confinement for three years, spending long winters cooped up indoors in a tiny stall with no companionship and nothing to do. Edmonton's cold climate is detrimental to Lucy's health, and experts agree that she must be moved to a warm-weather sanctuary.
The campaign to move Lucy recently picked up some high-profile support. In December 2010, former Edmonton Oilers enforcer Georges Laraque sent a letter to Mayor Stephen Mandel offering $100,000 if the city relocates Lucy to a sanctuary.
Visitors to peta2's popular website can find celebrity interviews, contests, merchandise, games, and ideas for easy ways to help animals.
For more information, please visit peta2.com.