The Taizhou Zoo in China has been making headlines recently for a controversial exhibit featuring dogs disguised as baby pandas. The exhibit, which features Chow Chow dogs dyed black and white to resemble pandas, has gained viral attention on social media.
The zoo has admitted that they do not have actual pandas to showcase, but maintain that visitors are not being misled about the animals. A spokesperson for the zoo has stated that the dogs are not being harmed and non-toxic dye is used in the process.
Despite the zoo’s assurances, animal experts have raised concerns about potential health risks to the dogs. Ron Magill from Zoo Miami has criticized the practice as unsettling, noting that a similar incident involving a sun bear at a Chinese zoo went viral in the past.
However, it seems that the popularity of pandas cannot be denied. The San Diego Zoo recently added two giant pandas this summer, further highlighting the draw of these beloved animals. Pandas, no matter how they are disguised, are good for business and tourism.
Despite the controversy, the Taizhou Zoo reports that the panda dogs exhibit is still attracting visitors at a normal level. It seems that the allure of pandas, even in dog form, is still going strong. Whether or not this trend will continue remains to be seen.
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