Roadside Zoo Shuts Down After Lawsuit Over Animal Neglect

Residents’ concerns over animal mistreatment at Waccatee, a South Carolina roadside zoo, prompted legal action by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Foundation (PETA) in 2022. The zoo’s alleged failure to properly care for a coatimundi and potbellied pig, among other animals, led to a lawsuit accusing Waccatee of neglect, including providing inadequate shelter, poor nutrition, and filthy enclosures.

In a significant development this month, the San Diego-based sanctuary Lions Tigers & Bears, which holds accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, stepped in to rescue the neglected coatimundi and potbellied pig. PETA’s connection with various accredited sanctuaries nationwide enabled this successful relocation. “When we reached out [to Lions Tigers & Bears] about the coatimundi and potbellied pig, they were happy to help,” said Brittany Peet, general counsel for PETA’s Captive Animal Law Enforcement division.

The lawsuit also revealed that Waccatee secretly began transferring some animals to other roadside zoos when legal proceedings commenced. A cougar from Waccatee found a new home at Carolina Tiger Rescue, and overall, PETA’s efforts have saved twelve animals from this facility.

The lawsuit’s resolution forced Waccatee’s permanent closure and barred its operators—Kathleen, Jeff, and Austin Futrell—from future involvement in exhibiting, breeding, or profiting from wild animals. PETA’s Captive Animal Law Enforcement division continues to monitor captive wildlife facilities for violations and collaborates with law enforcement to initiate legal actions when necessary.

PETA remains committed to ensuring animals receive proper care and encourages the public to stay away from roadside zoos. According to Peet, the ultimate aim is to see rescued animals flourish in sanctuaries. “The goal and hope for the animals [PETA] rescues is that they finally get the care that they need and deserve,” Peet said, adding that places like Lions Tigers & Bears provide this crucial care.

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Related Content:

• Chimps Rescued From Roadside Zoo Share a Hug After Moving to New Sanctuary Home
• Two Neglected Tigers Saved From Abandoned Roadside Zoo in Oklahoma
• Oklahoma Roadside Zoo Under Fire for Animal Abuse
• Indiana Roadside Zoo Shut Down For Beating Animals to Death and Threatening Officials

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