citation_inspection: 33434

***According to the licensee, the diet for the cougar includes deer carcasses, hamburger, whole store bought turkeys, and chicken leg quarters. The diet for the bobcat consists of consists of raw chicken, turkey and deer meat with some bones. Neither felid is receiving whole carcasses on a regular basis and the licensee stated that the meat is not supplemented. The diet as stated may result in nutritional issues including, but not limited to amino acid deficiencies, calcium deficiencies, calcium/phosphorus imbalances, and vitamin deficiencies. The diet should be evaluated by the attending veterinarian, preferably with consultation from a nutritionist. Correct by November 15, 2016 On the second day of the inspection we observed the cougar being fed chicken parts. The animal rapidly ate the food and when it was finished it licked the concrete flooring where the food had been. An associate veterinarian of the Attending Veterinarian’s clinic observed the animal and recommended feeding to satiety. Food must be offered in appropriate quantities as per the veterinarian’s recommendation. Correct by November 15, 2016 ***The diet for the bear includes dog food, fruit, and corn. The bear appeared very agitated and hungry when the licensee offered food, and inspectors observed the bear finishing all the scattered dog kibble within a few minutes. Bears require a large variety of foods, and in the winter they should have a seasonally appropriate diet and be allowed to feed to satiety, as per their normal seasonal metabolic requirements. Consult with the attending veterinarian on an appropriate weight reduction program that takes into account the bears seasonal nutritional needs. The licensee informed the inspectors that the animal will be transferred to another facility in the near future. The animal must have its diet evaluated by the attending veterinarian (preferably in consultation with a nutritionist) or safely transferred before the correction date for diet evaluation. Correct by November 15, 2016 ***According to the licensee, the diet for the Patagonian cavies is approximately 90% rabbit pellets, with about 10 to 15% orchard grass/clover mix hay. Fresh fruits and vegetables are provided only sporadically. Caviids require vitamin C in their diet, and insufficient amounts may result in deficiency and disease. In lieu of a vitamin C supplemented pelleted diet, these animals require appropriate types and amounts of fresh fruits, vegetables or another effective method of supplementation to meet this nutritional need. The animal must have its diet evaluated by the Attending Veterinarian. Correct by November 15, 2016 ***The potbellied pig was fed chow directly on the enclosure floor, which was contaminated with damp straw mixed with feces and urine. Contaminated food may compromise health and lead to disease. Provided food must be clean, wholesome and palatable. Correct by October 14, 2016