Elephants at the St. Louis Zoo are needlessly suffering and dying prematurely. The Zoo does not provide the space, climate or natural conditions that elephants need, nor do they have room to expand.

Cramped spaces and unnatural zoo conditions cause arthritis and often-fatal foot disorders. Earlier this year, Clara was euthanized after becoming crippled with severe arthritis, chronic foot infections and erosions of the soles of her feet. Another elephant, Carolyn, had suffered arthritis prior to her death in 2000.

Many of the surviving elephants have experienced foot disorders and other captivity-related problems. They all may share Clara’s and Carolyn’s painful fate unless something is done to help them.

"Take action" to write to Mayor Francis Slay and ask him to act to help the elephants at St. Louis Zoo (the Zoo is supported by city and county taxpayer funds). A sample letter is provided, but please personalize it as much as possible. Be sure to follow up with a polite phone call. Urge friends, family and co-workers to take action on this important issue as well.

Mayor Francis Slay
St Louis City Hall
Mayor's Office, Room 200
1200 Market Street
St. Louis, MO 63103
Tel: (314) 622-3201
Fax: (314) 622-4061
Email: slayf@stlouiscity.com