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Little Ponderosa Zoo announces plans to reopen, rebuild after fire

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CLINTON, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Little Ponderosa Zoo has announced plans to reopen Dec. 30 following a fire that completely destroyed the main barn and killed several animals.

James Cox, the zoo's founder, held a small meeting to update the community on the animals' needs and to promote the upcoming fundraisers.

"We have to honor the lives lost, but it is time to move forward..." Cox said. "We are going to build a new facility so that you and your family, and our community can continue to enjoy what we once had and what we will have again. I really believe that."

Cox says he is searching for an engineer or an architect who can help with the rebuilding process, such as creating temporary structures for the zoo's reopening.

As for the animals, Cox said they need propane to heat the tent that serving as the animals' temporary barn, as well as straw, hay, shavings, pet taxis, pet water bottles, birdseed, cat and dog food, rabbit food, monkey biscuits, buckets, food pans/bowls, silverware, office supplies, bird cages, small animal cages, garbage bags and cans, paper towels, toilet paper, halters and lead ropes, grain, towels, blankets, coolers for water storage, work benches, food crates, dish soap, shovels, rakes, hand tools, a deep freezer and refrigerator, heat lamps and tarps. Little Ponderosa is taking cash donations as well on its website.

The fire was reported Monday afternoon has been ruled accidental, caused by an electrical malfunction at the rear of the barn.