Seek Justice for Bear Allegedly Forced to Live Miserable Existence in Cramped Pen

Target: Basil Seggos, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Goal: Investigate and hold accountable all those reportedly responsible for severe neglect and mistreatment of animals at a licensed facility.

A 27-year-old black bear named Honey was reportedly forced to endure years of painful neglect in a taxpayer-funded facility before her death. According to advocates, Honey suffered from broken and rotted teeth, chronic urinary tract infections, and severe stress—evidenced by constant swaying. Allegedly, her cramped pen barely allowed her to turn around, and as she grew weaker, staff resorted to methods like yelling and even spraying her with water to force her movement. In the end, Honey’s health was so compromised that she was euthanized after what appears to have been extended and unnecessary suffering.

Honey’s tragic fate, however, is reportedly far from an isolated incident. Whistleblowers claim that many other animals at this facility have been denied proper veterinary care and subjected to neglect. Farm animals, rabbits, ducks, and deer have allegedly suffered due to lack of adequate treatment, sometimes dying or requiring euthanasia as a direct result. Some employees without veterinary training are said to have performed invasive procedures on animals, and repeated complaints and calls for intervention appear to have gone unanswered.

This alleged pattern of cruelty demands immediate and decisive action. No animal—whether a majestic bear or a humble barnyard resident—should endure torment and neglect, especially in a setting funded by taxpayers. It is time for a thorough investigation into the facility’s practices and for meaningful consequences to follow. The authority that licenses and oversees such establishments must ensure that animals are treated with compassion and respect. Demand that the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation fully investigate this situation and hold all responsible parties accountable.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Commissioner Seggos,

Reports of widespread neglect, inadequate care, and cruelty at a state-licensed facility—including the heartbreaking case of a 27-year-old black bear named Honey—are deeply disturbing. Honey reportedly suffered for years with painful injuries, infections, and stressful conditions before ultimately being euthanized. This tragic story is compounded by claims that numerous other animals at the facility have been deprived of proper medical care, with some even dying or requiring euthanasia due to neglect.

According to whistleblowers, animals were forced to live in unsanitary and cramped quarters, lacked appropriate veterinary intervention, and in some cases were subjected to invasive procedures by unqualified individuals. These allegations not only raise grave welfare concerns but also betray the trust that the public places in establishments approved and licensed by your department.

I respectfully urge you to launch a thorough and transparent investigation into these claims, and if verified, to take strong, decisive action against those responsible. By holding this facility and its operators fully accountable, you can send a clear message that cruelty and neglect have no place in any licensed institution and that all animals under their care deserve kindness, proper treatment, and dignity.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: ucumari photography