VANCOUVER - A B.C. animal advocacy group says petting zoos are breeding grounds for pathogens like E. coli and salmonella and should be banned or at least regulated.

Lifeforce says the pens where children play can be soaked with urine and feces and many children have become sick after visiting them.

Lifeforce director Peter Hamilton says the petting zoo business may be harbouring a silent epidemic because visitors aren't usually told about the health risks and preventive measures and illnesses are not often reported.

He also says animals are continuously harassed and even sick animals may be on display.

Hamilton says there are only guidelines, not regulations, for petting zoos, and they are often not enforced.

He says a ban or regulations are needed to deal with the health hazards posed by animals in such zoos and to reduce abuse of the animals.

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