10/13/26 - CWI Calls for Jackson Zoo Closure and Responsible Animal Relocation

CompassionWorks International has submitted comments to Jackson, Mississippi Mayor John Horhn and City Council President Vernon Hartley urging immediate protection for animals at Jackson Zoo, an independent welfare assessment, and funded relocation planning. Our October 9 letter presses for accountability as officials consider the zoo’s future. CWI’s goal is clear: close the zoo and responsibly relocate its animals, preferably to accredited sanctuaries.

The USDA’s August 25 inspection documented violations of 16 regulatory provisions. Findings included moldy lettuce and spoiled meat being fed to animals, expired medications available for use, rodent contamination on feed bags, and deteriorating enclosures. Inspectors also described standing water and a strong mold odor in the veterinary hospital, along with damaged primate perches that put animals at risk of injury.

In its October 2 response, the city said expired medications had been removed, animals moved, and repairs and pest-control measures undertaken, with other work continuing. On October 6, Horhn described plans to seek development proposals for the zoo. CWI is calling for independently verifiable progress and a future determined by the animals’ needs—not simply a new operating arrangement.

An independent assessment should examine each animal’s health, housing, nutrition, behavior and social needs. Adequate staffing, veterinary care and maintenance must be funded throughout any transition. Relocation planning should identify qualified receiving facilities, preferably sanctuaries accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries where suitable placements are available, and address transport, quarantine, compatible social groups and lifelong care.

Correcting violations is an immediate obligation. For CWI, it is not a substitute for ending these animals’ confinement for public display. Responsible closure means securing appropriate homes and the resources to move and care for every animal safely.

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