Vegan News 5.24.13

Scottish wildcat could be extinct ‘within two years.‘ “A scientist who has developed a genetic test to identify pure Scottish wildcats has warned that the species could be extinct within two years. Dr Paul O’Donoghue said cross breeding with feral and hybrid cats made extinction a certainty unless ‘urgent’ conservation activity took place. The University of Chester biologist said pure wildcats should be trapped. He also suggested that private individuals could be keeping the ‘very best’ wildcats as pets. Recent estimates suggest that fewer than 100 remain, making it one of the rarest animals in the world.”

Area Animal Rescue Groups In Oklahoma To Help Pets Displaced By Tornado. “The ASPCA and North Shore Animal League are in Oklahoma to help with the rescue of hundreds of lost pets that were displaced during Monday’s massive tornado. The Central Oklahoma Humane Society said they’ve received over 125 dogs and cats and have so far reunited 33 pets with their families. A lost and found pets website has also been set up for storm victims. It includes updates and information about how many pets have been found and where they are being sheltered as well as pictures and detailed descriptions of any animal that is found.”

Owner of traveling animal exhibit says he’s following the law. “People in Camden are complaining about a traveling zoo exhibit that stopped at a city shopping center. They say the exotic animals’ cages are too small, and the wild animals shouldn’t be in cages at all. But the owner of the exhibit says he’s operating within the law, and says the animals are well cared for. Robert Engesser’s Traveling Jungle Safari says  he and his animals have been all over the world. But of all his stops, he says he hasn’t gotten a welcome like he got in Camden where people came out and told him his animals needed bigger cages. ‘I think it’s despicable,’ said Sharon Jones. ‘I don’t like seeing wild animal in cages like that. They’re behind bars and it’s not a good situation for a wild animal.’ As for Engesser, he said his animals bring smiles to faces.”