Please sign and share this petition in an effort to ask the judge in Ohio to reconsider his decision to return animals to a man that was in numerous violations of animal cruelty and improper housing of them. The Ohio Department of Agriculture is fearful that if the animals like the tigers, bear, cougar and leopard are returned to the original owner, the animals, neighbors and community are in danger. I don't know how this judge could believe returning them is the right thing to do but in the name of the animals involved, they need to be brought to a facility or sanctuary that is in their best interest.
An animal sanctuary in Toledo, Ohio was under investigation and up to 11 exotic, wild animals were removed from the facility. Investigators noted that the animals were in appropriate cages with easy exits. They could literally get out and stand on top of their cages. The Ohio Department of Agriculture stated in a letter that "This makes it alarmingly easy for the animals to escape should they become properly motivated."
Additionally, the inspectors noted that there were unsecured chains and padlocks on animal cages, along with insecure fencing that animals could get through. The owner of this dysfunctional sanctuary was refused the permit to keep these animals any longer and they have been removed. However, the Judge in the case agreed to return the animals to this guy, Kenny Hetrick of Toledo. He says that he has run this place for more than 30 years but never applied for a permit, which is currently a law.
Mr. Hetrick is very upset the animals were taken from him. He claimed that he made changes at his facility. However, the inspection showed otherwise with the poor housing, improper animal care, filthy water and even some meat for the animals that appeared spoiled. This guy clearly does not know how to care for animals and is in violation of exotic animal laws. The Judge needs to reconsider his decision to return the animals to him and we need your help to be a loud voice in this matter.
Toledo, Ohio Judicial System - You need to reconsider the decision to return any and all of the animals to Mr. Kenny Hetrick because of his abusive, inappropriate housing and care. He has run this sanctuary for so many years and never acquired a permit till now?? There has to be a reason for that and the investigation aired out the real truth about the facility. Do not return those animals to him and ban him from ever having, owning or caring for any other animals for life! He does not know how to really care for them as required.
