Should circuses be banned for their treatment of animals?

Yes

1 of 2

by Jacinda

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The cute, furry images cross our TV screens during commercial breaks: abused and abandoned cats and dogs that have been rescued and need loving homes. It pulls the heartstrings of all animal lovers, convincing adoptions and donations. News of a malnourished pup in the neighborhood being kept on a short chain night and day infuriates us. We phone animal control to come to the rescue, and curse the terrible person responsible for the abuse.

We find the mistreatment of our domesticated species horrible and unbearable, yet many unknowingly find amusement in the abuse of their more wild and exotic counterparts. Not only do people find amusement in it, but they pay for this cruel entertainment. Parents are eager to buy tickets and cart their excited little children off to this event known as the Circus.

Picture this: laughter and squeals of delight, little hands sticky from cotton candy, peanut shells hitting the floor, balloons floating and glow sticks waving wildly as the enormous elephants prance in circles and perform their lengthy routine. Big cats jumping through rings of fire as the audience gasps and applauds.

What many of us fail to realize is the torture that these beautiful animals endure in order to gain that applause. The routines, tricks and feats that these animals are taught are all unnatural. Bears do not ride unicycles through the forest, nor do elephants tote dancing performers on their backs. Being completely unnatural acts, they are not easily learned by the animals. They are beaten, mistreated and tortured for our entertainment. They are kept in small cages in inhumane conditions for the majority of their life. They can never truly live the happy and free life that was meant for them.

Animal rights activists and organizations have been aiming to end circuses for years. How can we help? Start simple: do not buy tickets and do not attend. Inform others on the cruel truth. Many people simply do not think about it or realize the truth behind the glamour of the big show. Educate yourself by finding more information online, including horrible training videos if you can handle watching. If you feel strongly, join an organization or animal rights group.

These poor, beautiful animals spend their entire lives being forced to perform. Some endure beatings, torture, and a lack of love. Out of fear they entertain their human audiences, spending the rest of their time in small cages that prohibit healthy exercise and movement. The end of circuses would mean allowing these deserving creatures to live free in their natural habitats, as God intended.

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