Armenian businessman Tsarukyan’s predators may face repeat sedation

Predators at a zoo owned by Armenian businessman Gagik Tsarukyan may be sedated again as they are prepared for relocation to winter enclosures, raising concerns among animal welfare specialists, Prosperous Armenia party spokesperson Iveta Tonoyan said.

The animals, which were previously sedated along with tigers in July, are expected to be moved to other cages for the winter, Tonoyan told journalists.

She said the issue was discussed the previous day at a meeting of the Yerevan Zoo Council, where specialists reportedly expressed concerns over the animals’ health and the potential risks associated with repeated sedation.

“Specialists raised the alarm, noting that the animals have health problems and that repeated sedation could be dangerous for them. I want to appeal to all animal protection organizations and urge them to take action. Our lawyers will also address this issue,” Tonoyan said.

By Vafa Guliyeva