The owner of Sloth Encounters pleaded not guilty to four town code violations on Wednesday.

The move comes as the Town of Islip takes legal action to shut down the controversial Hauppauge petting zoo owned by Larry Wallach.

The town attorney filed for a permanent injunction to close the exotic animal facility for violations of town code.

Animal activists say the sloths should be in sanctuaries and not used for photo ops.

The owner of the business says the animals are treated well and that he has proper permits.

A Supreme Court judge will hear arguments Thursday for a temporary restraining order. If granted, it could temporarily close down the establishment.