Due to the heating up of the northern sector, dozens of animals were evacuated from the Kfar Giladi petting zoo to the monkey shelter in Ben Shemen forest and additional installations in the center who volunteered to hold onto and treat the animals until tension dies down and ensure their safety.
The Nature and Parks Authority explained that in light of the multiplying incidents in the north, it was decided at Kfar Giladi to prepare for any possibility and remove the animals already at this stage in order to ensure their well-being. Dozens of animals including ibexes, goats, donkeys, rabbits, and other small animals like hamsters and more were sent from Kfar Giladi to the monkey shelter in Ben Shemen forest and another installation (Gatenio Farm).
"It is a responsibility and an obligation to work towards rescuing animals on the Perimeter and in the north”
Uri Laniel, head of the field of trade in captive wild animals at the Nature and Parks Authority, explained: “As parties responsible for captive wild animals, along with our colleagues who provide a response for all animals including farm animals and in agriculture, we see these times as a responsibility and an organizational obligation, to work towards the rescue of animals held in petting zoos in the Gaza Perimeter and the north of the country when there is no possibility of providing them with proper treatment or there is a danger to their life.”
According to him, “in light of this, we transferred a variety of wild animals including reptiles, insects, birds, and mammals for devoted treatment in alternative places which agreed to absorb the animals, with complete coordination and at the request of the managers of the petting zoos. In light of a request we received from Kfar Giladi, we are preparing to act there, too, and remove the animals to a safe place, in addition to the aid we provide wounded wild animals in collecting the animals and finding alternative holding and raising solutions during this far from simple time.”
Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman addressed the transfer of animals: “In this complex time, the whole issue of concern for animals is particularly important, in the north and in the south. In light of the fighting, the need arose to evacuate dozens of animals who were left without supervision and care and deliver food and medical equipment.”
She added: “Particularly in this difficult hour, it’s important for us to continue and also help our good and faithful friends, the animals, with the aid of cooperation with many parties. We will continue to look after the animals, many of whom have remained homeless and without care.”
“Animals in the petting zoos need continuous care”
Gali Davidson, director of the protection of animals department at the Environmental Protection Ministry, explained: “Alongside the work for animals in the southern fighting sector, we are also preparing to prevent harm to animals in the northern sector, as well. Animals in the petting zoos need continuous treatment and when there is no ability to provide them with that, there is need to evacuate them. The animals will be held in installations where they will receive dedicated care until they can be returned.”
