Travellers' Choice™ Best of the Best
In October 2022, Susie and Sallie found their long-awaited freedom when they were rescued from the Tri-State Zoological Park in Maryland. This facility had been a defunct roadside zoo that had faced
multiple animal welfare violations over the years, ultimately leading to its closure.
The path to this rescue was a lengthy and challenging one. PETA had filed lawsuits against the park in 2019 and then again in 2020, and it took an additional two years to set the rescue plan into motion. The relief was palpable when our team had the opportunity to help facilitate the rescue of 12 animals from the property.
Prior to their rescue, Susie and Sallie endured years in a small and unsanitary enclosure with no access to fresh water and fed a diet of donuts and junk food. The conditions led to them becoming grossly overweight, causing them great discomfort. Furthermore, both bears suffered from the loss of most of their teeth due to a substandard diet and a lack of proper veterinary care over their lifetime.
Since their rescue, our dedicated team has been diligently working to provide Susie and Sallie with the care they deserve. This includes a healthy diet, plenty of enrichment activities to stimulate their minds and bodies, and tailored veterinary care to make their lives as comfortable as possible, offering these
bears a much-needed chance at a brighter and more fulfilling future.
Years of Neglect at Tri-State Zoological Park (Pre-Rescue):
Like Susie, Sallie endured years of suffering in a small, dirty enclosure with no access to fresh water and a diet of junk food, leading to severe health problems, including obesity and the loss of most of her teeth.
Legal Actions Leading to Tri-State Zoo's Closure (2019–2022):
PETA’s lawsuits filed in 2019 and 2020 ultimately led to the closure of the zoo, creating an opportunity for Sallie and the other animals to be rescued from inhumane conditions.
Rescue and Relocation to Lions Tigers & Bears (October 2022):
Sallie’s rescue, along with Susie and 10 other animals, marked the beginning of a new chapter. She was transported to Lions Tigers & Bears, where she finally received the care and environment she deserved.
Healing and Recovery at Lions Tigers & Bears (Post-Rescue):
Since her arrival, Sallie has undergone a remarkable transformation, receiving veterinary care for her dental issues and obesity, a proper diet, and enrichment to improve her physical and mental well-being, giving her a second chance at a fulfilling life.
Ph: 619.659.8078
Fx: 619.659.8841
[email protected]
24402 Martin Way, Alpine, CA 91901
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