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Saturday, December 08, 2001

By Gene Collier, Post-Gazette Staff Writer

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium will donate $2,000 to the zoo in Kabul, Afghanistan, as part of an effort by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association to respond to worsening conditions for animals and keepers in the war zone.

"As experts in caring for animals, we have the resources to help the zoo and the animal keepers in this war-torn area," said Barbara Baker, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo. "For this reason, we have joined the AZA, the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria to send aid to the Kabul Zoo."

The zoo in Kabul was reportedly being used as a refuge for Taliban fighters. One animal, a male lion blinded by a grenade, has attracted international attention amid reports that other animals have been shot or taken for food.

Coordinating the emergency effort in this country is Dr. David Jones, director of the North Carolina Zoo and chairman of the board of the Brooke Hospital, the largest animal welfare organization in Pakistan.

"Because of the work we do in Pakistan, we have a network of people who can assist in getting the funds, food and veterinary items to the Kabul Zoo," Jones said. "As urgent as the need is for humanitarian aid, there also is the need to help animals that have been suffering during these times."