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Friday, April 16, 2004 Page: 7A
Thank you for your April 13, 2004, story, “Circus opens with protest by
animal rights activists.” Before readers rush out to buy tickets, they should
think about what happens to animal performers behind the scenes.
Current animal welfare laws set only the most minimal standards, such as
requiring that animals have enough room to stand up and turn around when
confined, but even these basic regulations are often ignored.
Shrine circuses escape the scrutiny of governing bodies like the USDA by
leasing the animals used in its shows from exhibitors.
Animals used in circuses live a dismal life of domination, confinement, and
violent training. The circus deprives animals of their basic needs to
exercise, roam, socialize, forage, and play. Stereotypic behaviors such as
swaying back-and-forth, head bobbing, pacing, bar biting, and self-mutilation
are common signs of mental distress.
Circuses that exploit animals have no place in a compassionate society.
It’s time for all of us to stop patronizing animal circuses and to demand that
the animal performers be sent to sanctuaries, where they can live out their
lives in dignity.
Kristie Phelps
Program Coordinator
In Defense of Animals
Mill Valley, Calif.