After more than a year of living in limbo, The GuZoo in Three Hills is now able to operate without encumbrances.
Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (ESRD) issued a short statement on their website indicating that GuZoo has a new permit to operate.
“Following an extensive period of legal discussion, a judicial review into the decommissioning order was terminated and the status of GuZoo was returned to operation through a permit under the authority of the Wildlife Act and following the Alberta Zoo Standards,” it reads.
The GuZoo had a tumultuous year and a half after images of the animal farm were posted in social media. The uproar that ensued eventually led to the GuZoo being closed for a short time and a Decommissioning Order was issued.
A line was drawn in the sand as discussion in the media and social media showed well-defined sides. While many cheered for the decommissioning, many also stepped up to support the GuZoo. The Friends of GuZoo was revived, support rallies were held, along with work bees, and fundraising drives. The GuZoo was issued a temporary permit to operate under strict conditions and a Judicial Review was ordered. The review continued to be postponed until this week when it was completely dropped.
In her blog, Irene Gustafson, one of the owners of the Three Hills institution was elated and grateful for supporters upon hearing the news.
“Thank you to all our supporters and friends who have fought with us this past year. Without your financial and emotional support things could have turned out differently. This is a win for all Albertans who love animals and want to continue to own them” she states “Today, the government took a stand for the rights of animal owners so you, me, and everyone can enjoy the animals they currently have in their care for a long time.”
According to The ESRD website, the GuZoo operated under the conditions of the court, and during this time, no animals were discovered to be under distress and there were no violations arising during the inspections.
Gustafson explains the battle was more than simply about operating their farm but about the rights of animal owners
“Animal Rightists who feel they are doing the right thing, for the love of animals, fail to see how the legislations they want to impose would affect the ownership of their very own beloved macaw or bearded dragon. If Animal Rightists win and succeed in instating legislation that restricts animal ownership, they are effectively legislating their own personal pet out of their house. I know that is what some Animal Rightists want, but I also know that the majority who call themselves Animal Rightists or Animal Welfare Advocates could never imagine a house void of pets,” she writes.
