We attended an Easter Event on the 7th April 2012 at the Palace Hotel (Dubai) and noticed a small petting section complete with baby rabbits and chicks at the venue. We were completely shocked and dismayed when we realised that these creatures were being handed out to families at the end of the event as party favours. Yes, these live animals were being placed into paper bags and handed over to naive children and parents, most of whom were unprepared to receive such a "gift". We would be very surprised from the shocking questions overheard, and the way some of the children threw the animals around, if any actually survived for more than the journey home! When we questioned the gent from the Hotel's Events team he responded that it was OK - the animals were safe as they had all been vaccinated! At the very least no-one was explaining care of these creatures to the recipient families. To: The Management Dubai Palace Hotel We the undersigned would like to convey our disgust and revulsion that you are using live creatures as party favours. Animals are not gifts, nor are they toys. Kindly show some respect and ban this practice within your establishment. Thank you.

Links