Cedar Point petting zoo operator cited

SANDUSKY — A federal agency has cited a Kentucky-based "petting zoo" operator employed at Cedar Point for failing to monitor animals properly. The citations relate to the escape of two camels on June 11 and 15 goats on June 15 inside the park, according to a press release from the animal advocacy group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, which links to a United States Department of Agriculture, or USDA, inspection report dated June 17. The report states that: • The animal areas did not have adequate barriers to block members of the public from entering. • The facility did not have enough staff present during times when guests could interact with the animals. • A section of woven wire fencing in an area housing goats, llamas and alpacas, was broken and had "sharp points and an unintended open area in the fence that is approximately one foot tall and 3 feet wide." The report notes that additional security measures were added to the animal areas following the escapes. The federal inspectors demanded that the animal handler make these fixes by July 1: • Ensure a minimal risk of harm to animals and the public during times when guests can view the animals. • Make sure a "responsible, knowledgeable and readily identifiable employee" is always present. • Ensure that animal housing facilities are in good repair.