Here is a PM I received, with the responses following:
Quote:
"Can you please tell me if there is any connection between Forever Wild and animal trainer who was killed?
I am all for the rescue of wild animals, but cannot in any way support an activity that uses wild animals for entertainment or profit.
If there is any connection between the facilities or people, I will have to decline the opportunity to visit Forever Wild.
Thank you."
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Here's my response:
"Very glad you are concerned about this, we feel the same way. Randy is a friend and I think your characterization is one-sided. So please hear the other side - it's been quite a week.
Forever Wild is a rescue sanctuary just like Randy's place. We help each other out quite a bit in locating and saving animals that are about to be euthanized by Fish and Game from illegal ownership or neglect.
In no case do these animals come from the wild. That's totally illegal and unethical. There is very strict federal protection and oversight over animal sanctuaries and operations.
Federal protection, yes, but no funding. No grants, no nothing. At FW we have about a $12K per month food bill. We have no source of funding other than donations, and are always looking for help.
Randy has to do film work to pay the bills - and just barely. The animals love it - just like your dog getting to go for a trip. He loves the animals more than anybody else, and sleeps in a mobile home in order to take care of them."
Quote:
I have no idea who Randy is, and I'm not characterizing anything...just seeking information.
I understand that the people involved are friends of your's and I'm sure they are good and caring people...I'm sorry for them and for you.
But the fact remains...I do not like to see wild animals (even if they are well-cared for and loved) used for entertainment or profit.
I am not passing judgment. I just don't want to make a two hour drive to find something I would not agree with. I would rather someone take my place if that is likely to be the case.
Again, I am sorry for your loss.
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My response was a little crusty:
"...you are indeed making a characterization, and a very unfair one. I will try not to get angry here.
You choose to believe that something is being done here that you are against. You have zero facts about the circumstances.
If you cared about these animals, you would come and help us feed and take care of them, like our other 20 volunteers. You can come to Randy's place and help us feed and clean stalls - we need the help.
Randy has sacrificed a lot more than you or I for these animals that would otherwise be dead without him. He makes very little money; just barely enough to feed and maintain them.
I suggest you stick with your elite principles, and we will stick with getting these animals taken care of, OK?"
Quote:
Yes, I have principles, and I'm sure you do as well.
It is impossible to characterize something I know nothing about. I have admittied my ignorance and have asked for information. For whatever reason, you seem defensive and reluctant to address my question.
What is it think you know about me? About my motivations, my causes, my passions, and my missions? What is it you think you know about how I contribute time and money? You sir, are the one with assumptions and characterizations.
I'm not trying to pick a fight and I don't want to add to your burdens so I will simply withdraw my name from the list.
Thank you for the invitation.
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"...we're really talking about two different things here. Actually 3 different things, because Forever Wild doesn't do Randy's film stuff. However I still want to correct what I think are misconceptions.
I agree with your principle that animals should not be exploited for money. An example would be some gypsy guy making a bear dance all day, or an organ grinder's monkey. Everyone involved with animals agrees with you there.
My only disagreement with you is that you are categorizing people who train animals for movie work the same way.
I agree that it appears to be the same thing. I would draw the same conclusion that you are, in fact. I applaud your sensitivity to this, and I wish more people felt the way you do.
Zoos charge admission. You know why. Forever Wild survives on donations. You know why. Randy and the several other trainers in LA have rescued big animals with big appetites, and as I said he makes barely enough to keep going. He only gets film gigs every month or so. The animals LOVE the chance to get out and interact with people and have some fun. You wouldn't want to be cooped up in the enclosure for months, would you?
Let us blame the circumstances behind this instead. The animals were rescued from illegal ownership and have nowhere else to go. It's not like they're being tortured for God's sake. When the trailer rolls up they go crazy and run to jump in... been there dozens of times."
Quote:
Your reasoned response is simply too little, too late. I did or said nothing that justified your ill-tempered response to my initial posts.
You take pride in what you do. Fine, but that is no reason to criticize and dismiss those who MIGHT have a different perspective...that is being an elitist.
If you have not done so already, please remove my name from the list.
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