Going to the zoo was probably one of my favorite things to do as a kid. I got to see all of the animals right before my eyes, touch the starfish and eels, feed some giraffes here and there. The best part back then was when I'd get some Dippin' Dots and go watch the dolphin show. We always went to the bigger zoos because my dad didn't agree with the constricted and unsanitary** living environment of the animals at the Como Zoo, and didn't want to support that type of treatment. But as I've grown up, I've come to realize the harsh reality of all zoos.

Animals need exercise just like we do. But when you're stuck in a cage or small enclosure, there's only so much that these animals can do to stay active. And how does that saying go? "Free as a bird?" "Go where the wind takes you?" Most birds you see at the zoo have their wings clipped and can barely fly, if at all.

Have you ever noticed an animal at the zoo repetitively chewing or moving their jaw, pacing back and forth, overgrooming or showing other forms of self-mutilaton?

These are all signs of depression, anger, or frustration, and often happen because the animal is lacking an environmental, nutritional, social, or other natural necessity. Zoos greatly affect the mental health of the animals they hold captive and I refuse to support them.

Zoos constantly advertise themselves with the idea that they put a lot of effort into helping conserve endangered species. Many AZA-accredited zoos are also a part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which tries to promote breeding and help protect endangered species. They get funding through organizations like the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden that is intended to go toward keeping these animals from going extinct. Zoos, like the San Diego Zoo who offers "giving opportunities" on their site, also get money from animal-lovers by making them feel like they're doing a good thing and that their donation is going toward a noble cause. The pictures with cute animals really suck you in, don't they?

We'd like to think that our contribution to these zoos' efforts is making a difference. But David Hancocks, a former zoo director with 30 years' experience, estimates that not even 3 percent of the budget for each of the 212 AZA-accredited zoos actually goes toward conservation efforts. Instead, most of their money goes toward getting people to come for the zoo for the "cute animals."

There are plenty of zoos that do put in a lot of effort to maintain proper care and treatment of their animals; but in reality, there's no way to truly replicate nature in captivity.

Visiting the zoo is a fun activity for you and your family; trust me, I remember. But don't let your entertainment be at the expense of these animals' happiness.

There's no place like home, and a zoo is no home for an animal.