Animal cafes are getting pretty commonplace around the world, especially in Asia. As an animal lover, I’m always torn between the desire to get up close and personal with animals and my understanding that wild animals are meant to be free in the wild. Where do we draw the line for education, experience and ethical concerns for the animals? While I was in Bangkok, I visited Little Zoo cafe to experience an animal cafe.
The Experience
While I was there, the animals seemed to be treated gently and were not forced to take photos with customers. All the photos you see here are candid and the animal had a choice to jump all over me (without my consent, actually).
As you can see, the Fennec fox made himself really comfortable, using my head as a pillow. The racoon was busy chasing a dog, and the meerkat just wanted to get into my bag. Of course, there are also very adorable dogs, cats and a variety of birds that love jumping into your lap to get your attention. It’s truly a mini petting zoo of sorts except you have to order a minimum amount of drinks and food for the experience.
The staff told me that the animals have a rotation so they don’t see customers all the time. They are also only out for a few hours before being sent to a private room for most of the day. While every detail seemed to be taken care of with love by the staff there, I still wonder if they came from the wild or were bred in captivity and if they are truly happy. I’ve not been to the other animal cafes in Bangkok even though a friend told me that I should also visit the husky cafe. Do share your thoughts if you’ve been there.
Little Zoo Cafe has two outlets
Outlet nearer to the City: 424/7-8 ถนน พระราม 1 ซอย สยามสแควร์ 11 Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krun, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Contact: +66 95 057 1010
Outlet nearer to the Airport: 55/613 หมู่9 Bond St, ตำบลบ้านใหม่ Amphoe Pak Kret, Chang Wat Nonthaburi 11120, Thailand
Contact: +66 92 448 1116
For other posts that I’ve written about Bangkok, Thailand,
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