In a couple weeks, zoo management in Topeka will find out if they'll lose their accreditation over their latest report on allegations of mismanagement.
But another zoo in the area has never had a bad AZA inspection.
Sunset Zoo in Manhattan is one of the states smaller zoos, sitting on 26 acres and just under 300 animals. Director Scott Shoemaker says knowing what you can and cant do is key for this type of operation
"I think it's important to know what your limitations are and then work within those," said Shoemaker.
In 2008 and 2009 many businesses saw a decrease in profit, but surprisingly to some the bear market has been good to these bears.
"We've actually seen an increase especially with the economic downturn," Shoemaker said. "Our attendance went up over 7,000 people which is pretty significant."
Pulling in money from ticket sales and private donors, Shoemaker says all the money goes towards animal care and a staff of 25.
It also helps to be members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and have KSU's School of Veterinary Medicine close by.
"We also have access to a lot of expertise that we can't afford personally or wouldn't have access to otherwise for example we have access to nutritionists at other zoos that can help us with our diet," said Shoemaker.
They can acquire animals on loan which they normally wouldn't be able to afford, like the sloth bears.
While the zoo maintains they follow USDA regulations, Shoemaker says the AZA standards are more rigorous.
AZA says there are over 2000 zoos or wildlife exhibits but only 207 have accreditation and AZA's Scott Feldman says: "It's not about the size, it's about the quality and this zoo is just as good San Diego, Columbus and Disney's Animal Kingdom. It can be very proud that it meets those same high standards."
"It's that stamp of approval that says that animals in our care are getting the absolute best care anywhere in the country," said Shoemaker.
