Re: Wolves need a name

LISA A. MITTEN (lmitten@vms.cis.pitt.edu)
Mon, 14 Nov 1994 09:39:45 -0400

We got a new zoo director here in Pittsburgh a couple of years ago.
All of the animals had names up to that point. The new director stated that
names would no longer be used (at least with the public), because they are
usually cute (i.e. your friend's suggstion of "Maggie"), and because these fine
creatures are NOT pets and should be treated with more respect for what they
are.
There was a mild flap when she announced this policy, but she has
stood firm. I think it is a good idea. SO many times you hear adults talking
to their kids a the zoo about the animals as if the animals were there solely
for their enjoyment. Using names for them just increases the tendency to
belittle them.

I guess that doesn't answer your question at all...just thought I'd
put in my two cents worth.

Lisa

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Lisa A. Mitten 207 Hillman Library
Social Sciences Bibliographer University of Pittsburgh
FAX: 412-648-1245 Pittsburgh, PA 15260
Internet: lmitten@vms.cis.pitt.edu 412-648-7723
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"Human beings were invented by water as a device for transporting itself
from one place to another."

(from EVEN COWGIRLS GET THE BLUES / Tom Robbins)
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