You are a kick, Kippen! Donuts --- ARRGH!! Everytime I lose a few pounds, my husband brings home a dozen of those donut sort of things that are stuffed with Bavarian cream. No wonder I relate to elephants! I don't agree with everything you said in this latest post, but I can see that you are sincere and your thoughts are not simply an emotional reaction. I am not going to try to talk you out of any of it. I am wary of scientific studies unless I know some background about the researcher, but I will read up on Dr. Poole and Ms. Moss. Since they are apparently widely recognized, I'll bet even I could find out about them on the internet. I appreciate your sending the links. Hope you have a great week!

This is a thoughtful, well researched reply, Kippen, and I appreciate your taking the considerable time it must have required to write it. You have given me a side of this subject I had not seen before. Regarding "animal rights" activists -- I have known many and they have been, without exception, angry and irrational. (You are obviously neither.) I have followed various attempts at animal rights legislation and, in general, I have found them to be written by people who knew nothing about the animal being "saved". Often they are actually harmful to that animal or to others that live in the same habitat. What you have stated, however, strikes me as a sensible and valid concern. The plan of moving all domestic elephants in America to a sanctuary in Tennessee still raises the hair on the back of my neck (that would be the most extreme extrapolation of this discussion), but you have convinced me that our own Seattle elephants have needs that are not being met -- and they need to be by whatever means necessary. Regarding my view of what an animal regards as freedom: I base that on observation of the behavior of various kinds of animals. In my experience, an animal that wants to be FREE in the sense of not being confined will struggle to escape, refuse to eat, or continually pace the enclosure looking for a way out. Whereas a happy, contented animal is at peace with his surroundings and has no interest in leaving. I can think of (and I'm sure you can, too) instances of wild, unconfined animals that happily stayed in one specific location because their needs for food, water, shelter, and companionship were met there. They clearly valued freedom from want over freedom to travel. As with humans, all animal individuals are different and I'm sure you could find exceptions to this, but it has been my general observation. My prevailing thought on animal welfare is that it should be based on an accurate observation of the needs and preferences of the animal rather than attributing human reactions reactions to the animal. An example of that would be the current, terribly fashionable "crates are cruel" campaign. People who push it like to shrill about "How would YOU like to be locked up in crate?!". Obviously, I wouldn't, but I am not a dog. My dogs regard their crates as their places of rest and refuge. They willingly, even eagerly run to them. No crate available? They will seek out a small, confined, crate-like place to sleep -- a place I wouldn't even think about resting in. I'm sure you can think of other examples of animals having a strong desire or need for something that would be repugnant to a human. Again, I appreciate your time and effort in writing this reply because I would not want to be in opposition to something that would bring about good. Meanwhile, I wish you well in fighting the good fight against those Twinkies. My own downfall is chocolate (in any form).

I had to come back and add a P.S.: All that being said, I would certainly be delighted to see the elephant enclosure at Woodland Park enlarged. Although I am certain the elephants are not being mistreated, there are always ways to improve their lives and I am 100% in favor of anything to achieve that.

That is what the advocates want you to think, Corky. My comment is the result of many, many years of observing so-called animal advocates. I have also studied the so-called animal rights movement extensively. Although there may be some exceptions, the average animal rights advocate does not love animals. What they love is controlling others and forcing them to conform to an agenda. The primary goal of "animal rights" people is to end all animal ownership. They do not want any species saved from extinction by keeping some members of that species in comfortable captivity in zoos. They do not want animals forming strong bonds with humans by partnering together in activities like dogs doing police work, horses working in cattle ranching, herding dogs keeping sheep from harm, etc. They do not want anyone to have the comfort and companionship of a beloved pet. Indeed, one of the goals of "animal rights" is the complete extinction of all companion animals. I have a hard time finding any love in that. On the other hand, for a while, my husband worked at Woodland Park Zoo (in a maintenance capacity, not as an animal keeper). I have known some of the people who keep the elephants. They are people who genuinely love the elephants and would do anything for their welfare. So, when I hear of "advocates" storming about how Woodland Park's elephants should be taken away because they are "mistreated", I know that I am hearing hogwash and my reaction is anger. As far as being "locked up", an animal has a different view of freedom than you or I . To us, freedom might mean being able to travel anywhere, anytime, unhindered. To an animal, freedom from hunger, thirst, loneliness, and fear is more important than freedom to move from one geographic area to another. Zoo elephants (unlike wild elephants) have that freedom.

I have been following Mr. Baumgartner's campaign on facebook. I have to say, I am impressed. He manifests an understanding of local issues and an eagerness to learn more about the lives and needs of Washington residents. Rather than reading my impressions, I encourage you to look at Michael Baumgartner's facebook page and see for yourself.

Did I miss something? Mr. Baumgartner stated that he is not affiliated with the Tea Party.

I agree with all the other posters who are cheering for this trooper and his kindness. I also agree that Sarvey Wildlife Rescue is a wonderful place that does excellent work. I know they are always in need of money. If you loved this story and you are happy that people like the folks at Sarvey are doing this kind of thing, consider sending them a donation. I'm sure they would put it to a good use that would make you glad you sent it.

Better idea --- send the "advocates" to a suitable enclosure where they will be unable to harass people who love elephants.

Are you in contact with any of the groups that help people get off to a good start with their service dogs? For example, I have heard nothing but good things about Summit Assistance Dogs.

I have disagreed with many of your posts, Local, but I have to give you loud applause for this one. In my opinion, you have stated the true situation clearly and accurately. I believe that it is important that the public be educated as to the actual work and value of service dogs. I think your post makes a great contribution to that effort. Good work! I hope you find the absolute perfect service dog!