I am continuing to add to my list of things that I have either seen or done in Argentina that I never thought possible. Adding to that list is the Lujan Zoo. This is a zoo that is located about a hour and a half outside of the city of Buenos Aires. This is not your ordinary type of petting zoo because it actually allows you to enter into the cages with lions, tigers, and bears. I was very hesitant to do so at first, but after watching several people walk into the cages before me and come out alive, I figured that I would be ok. Clearly I survived my visit to the zoo, otherwise I would not be writing this post right now. My day consisted of petting tigers, lions and llamas. Don't forget the camel rides and feeding baby ducks. Another few of the highlights were the baby lions, the goat that was born hours before we arrived, and my all time favorite (and my mom's), the BABY PIG!!! It's quite possible that I have never seen something so cute in my entire life. While most of the tourists were fawning over the lions, you could find me playing with the little piglet.
As you might have come to realize, this is not your typical zoo. I read many articles before venturing to the Lujan Zoo about the treatment of the animals. To say the least, this is a very controversial zoo. The management of the zoo say that the animals are so tranquil because they are raised from birth with dogs so that they know how to be docile and interact with humans. Many of the articles that I have read say that it is impossible just for the animals to have been raised by dogs and behave so calmly. Therefore, many people believe that that animals are drugged so that they can be around humans. From my reading from the internet, it was difficult to see what case seemed more plausible. Even after my adventure to the zoo, I am still not sure what to believe. All I know is that these animals are not meant to be in a zoo and raised so that humans can take pictures with them everyday. Don't get me wrong, it was one of the coolest experiences to pet a lion, but obviously this is not the ideal life for these animals. The living conditions were also very unimpressive. All in all, it was definitely an experience I will never forget, but one time was enough for me!
Here are a few other snippets from my list of "never thought...in Argentina"
1. I never thought that I would be locked inside my own house. This morning I accidentally left my keys with a friend and no one was at the house to let me out. (you must unlock the door from the inside to get out) Good thing I discovered this problem 25 minutes before my class started...NOT. Did I mention I left my cell phone also with a friend. No communication. Locked in. Great start...
2. I never thought a dog walker would be such a popular job. One day I saw a man walking 20. Some of the dogs have mouth guards, which kinda scare me a little.
3. I never thought that I would be able to be underneath a waterfall. Iguazu was an indescribable experience.
4. I never thought that the black and white striped joker pants would be in here. News flash!! They very much are! Don't worry, I can take orders for anyone who wants them back home!
5. I never thought I would get a tattoo! VIVE ARGENTINA!!!
*just kidding about the last one mom and dad!
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