Zoo Asks People to Donate Pets to Feed Large Predators

A zoo in Denmark is under fire after issuing a public request for 🐾Pet donations — including chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even horses — to feed their carnivorous animals.

The controversial appeal came from Aalborg Zoo, which defended the move by citing its responsibility to promote natural behaviors and ethical animal care, according to ABC News.

“In zoos we have a responsibility to imitate the natural food chain of the animals — in terms of both animal welfare and professional integrity,” the zoo said in a statement last Thursday.

The backlash online was swift, with critics calling the practice “disturbing” and “morally wrong.” But the zoo doubled down, saying the donation program ensures “nothing goes to waste — and ensure natural behavior, nutrition and well-being of our predators,” according to the zoo’s website.

As part of the program, Aalborg Zoo accepts small pets like chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs on weekdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. — but no more than four at a time.

The zoo also accepts horses, which are euthanized and butchered for meat, though the site notes that supply needs vary by season and there may be a waiting list.

For horse owners, the zoo says the value of the horse donation may be tax-deductible, per Danish regulations.

ABC News has reached out to Aalborg Zoo for comment