We have previously discussed how thoughtless people can be in the treatment of animals. The latest such controversy comes from La Palmyre zoo in Royan, France. The zoo allows visitors to actually touch animals like a rhinoceros. At least two people used the access to scratch their names on to the back of the animal. “Camille” and “Julien” can now live in infamy.
It is amazing to think of two people given the opportunity to touch a rare 35-year-old female rhino who immediately wanted to scratch graffiti on its back. It takes not just unparalleled vanity but depravity to treat animals in this way.
Obviously, the animal was not harmed and does not appreciate the indignity of such conduct. Most animal abuse rules refer to serious physical pain or injury. However, it is still a form of abuse that should be subject to some sanction. I am not suggesting jail time, it seems to me that a fine would be useful as a deterrent. If you agree, what should it be?