Penn to examine petting zoo policy

Following local media coverage of Kahn the camel’s presence and treatment at the Zeta Psi petting zoo during Spring Fling, the University may reexamine its policy on such events.

“With the kind of concerns that were raised this year, we need to take a closer look at any situation where something like this would be brought in — not just at fraternity parties,” Director of the Office of Student Affairs/Fraternity Sorority Life Scott Reikofski said. He added that another petting zoo visited the Quadrangle a few weeks before Fling.

Any policy change regarding petting zoos would apply to all student organizations.

Zeta Psi received permission from University officials to host the petting zoo at their chapter house and will not suffer any disciplinary action.

Still, some students hope similar events won’t be allowed in the future.

College junior Annie Porter, who hopes to practice animal law in the future, said having Kahn at a fraternity party was disrespectful.

“I wouldn’t endorse a petting zoo in any capacity, especially during Spring Fling,” Porter said. “These are animals, not spectacles.”

She added that the event has no educational component and that animals in captivity have shorter life spans than those who live in the wild.

Reikofski said he could understand both sides of the debate, adding that “we need to respect people’s opinions.”

“We’re concerned with the health and safety of both the students and the animals — or any visitors to our campus, for that matter,” he added.

Porter believes, however, that regulations for petting zoos are not conducive to maintaining the health and well-being of the animals.

“Regulations are woefully inadequate and should deter the University from having these events in the future,” she said.

Wharton junior and President of the Interfraternity Council Harris Heyer — who is also a Zeta Psi brother — wrote in an email that his fraternity members love “cuddly animals.”

“If petting a camel is abusive, then what is an 80-mile trek through the Sahara with luggage strapped to its back?” he asked.

Note: Information provided by a student was omitted after it was found to be fabricated.

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