Indoor Petting Zoo and Owner Under Fire for Gross Mistreatment of Animals in Tacoma, Washington

Recent revelations from the Tacoma News Tribune shed light on a disturbing series of events at Debbie Dolittle’s Indoor Petting Zoo in Tacoma, Washington. The former owner, Donald Miller, has come under intense scrutiny following reports of animal deaths and cruelty under his watch.

PETA‘s investigation, prompted by the death of a 1-year-old sloth named Malia, uncovered a pattern of neglect and mistreatment. Documents obtained by PETA and reviewed by the Tacoma News Tribune revealed shocking details, including the deaths of 17 animals and instances of apparent cruelty.

Despite recommendations from animal control officials, charges against Miller and his associates have yet to be pursued by the prosecuting attorney’s office. The failure to act on these recommendations is deeply concerning, especially considering the severity of the allegations.

The investigation uncovered a litany of horrors:

• Malia and other animals were improperly cared for.
• Two otters died due to neglect shortly after being transported to the facility.
• A camel was euthanized under suspicious circumstances.
• Miller allegedly sought flesh-eating beetles for an art project involving a sick tortoise.

Furthermore, it was alleged that Miller tampered with evidence to conceal misconduct, and two former veterinarians left the facility due to concerns over animal care.

The investigation into Debbie Dolittle’s began in October 2019 after Malia died from blunt-force trauma to the head. Subsequent necropsy results revealed additional signs of neglect and chronic stress. Following PETA‘s tip, animal control officials raided the facility and seized several animals.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) fined Debbie Dolittle’s $7,500 for various violations, including the deaths of Malia and another animal, as well as injuries sustained by visitors. Despite these penalties, Miller continued to operate the facility, accumulating further citations for violations of the Animal Welfare Act.

Miller’s troubling history extends beyond Debbie Dolittle’s. In 2011, authorities discovered dozens of dead animals on a property where he operated a “goat for hire” business. Additionally, his association with other dubious animal exhibitors, such as Jason Clay, raises further concerns about his treatment of animals.

Following PETA’s pressure, the USDA revoked Miller’s license in April 2024. However, the fate of the remaining animals and the pursuit of justice for those lost under Miller’s care remain uncertain. Both PETA and Pierce County Animal Control have called for charges against Miller, but time is running out. With the statute of limitations expiring on many recommended charges, there is an urgent need for swift action to hold those responsible for animal cruelty to account.

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