There's a good reason as to why the animals have taken a backseat, so to speak, to the talented clowns, trapeze artists and physical feats of the trained performers who now occupy the most successful circuses that continue to entertain and inspire crowds around the world. While in transit, the animals are confined to trailers or trucks, where they may not have access to basic necessities, such as food, water, and veterinary care. Although bull fighting is extremely cruel, banning bull fighting would affect the bull fighting cultural tradition. The diet of animals is extremely poor compared to the natural diet in the wild. Keeping animals in captivity can prevent their extinction. In Vietnam, weve seen species which are protected by national and international lawperforming in circuses. We have existing laws to deal with individual cases of cruelty. Two opinions. Some of them are taken away from their families and everything they know, even if theyre born in captivity. He became a cavalry officer who created a modern amphitheater to show off horse riding tricks in Lambeth, London in April 1768. The final version of it could seat over 250,000 people. Times have changed. 4 Red discussing pros and cons of using circus animals. When the current licence expired, the ban was put into effect. Her full bio and clips can be seen at www.vegaswriter.com. 8/ No other profession is judged by the actions of individuals. Due to the increasing extinction rates among tigers and elephants, breeding these creatures in captivity may help preserve the species. There are plenty of circuses that can provide people with entertainment while providing the animals in their care a safe and healthy life. She was six years old, so she was almost 1,600 pounds off of her ideal weight. However, some circuses wont allow their animals to breed. Even when the handler walked by her after the incident, she would scream and veer away. Seeing how the circus is constantly on the road, it is only natural to see animals with severe sores and bruises all over their bodies from repeatedly rubbing against the bars of the cage. Unless government officials follow up inspections, nothing gets done to protect the animals from abusive situations. Additionally, alternatives to animal captivity, such as virtual reality and online resources should be considered and used whenever possible. travel 11 months per year in unspeakable conditions. This disadvantage is one of the primary reasons why circuses around the world have been responsible for over 100 injuries and several fatalities. 1. And children's eyes are brought in other ways sparkle than . This made sense to early entertainment entrepreneurs who saw a future in large establishments that could cater to the industrial revolutions penny-pinching lower class. Hermina believes that every day is a chance to learn something new about the obscure world around us. 2. Another benefit of using animals in shows (as circles see it) is the profit it brings to the table. This disadvantage is one of the primary reasons why the largest circus companies stopped using elephants and other animals in their shows ultimately forcing some of them to go out of business. The animals that you see performing in the circus were usually bred in captivity after the initial captures took place. For one, breeding tigers in captivity may decrease extinction rates. causes these poor animals to do just that. 8. Most importantly, Simon managed to shut down some circus companies and even protested against the Ringling Bros. to take. Defenders of animal circuses also argue that seeing animals perform is a form of education which raises awareness and appreciation of wild species. Animals in captivity refer to animals that are kept in controlled environments such as zoos, aquariums, circuses, and wildlife parks. suffered the disease after getting too close to an ill elephant. Bit ironic, isnt it? is relatively common. Global awareness of animal rights and wildlife conservation efforts are changing the sentimental feelings the circus once provoked. 2023 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Jodi earned an Associate of Arts in social and behavioral sciences from Merritt College and a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from San Francisco State University. Many animals in circuses carry diseases that can be transferred over to humans. Because animals must become broken before they can perform tricks or stunts for entertainment, the combination of uncomfortable positions, potential abuse, and small cages or enclosures can lead to abnormal behavior patterns. That means inspectors have found that they are failing to provide basic necessities to the animals, such as shelter from the elements, clean water, a minimum amount of space, and veterinary care. Most of them are highly educated people who are specifically trained to provide the best care possible. Exotic animals perform and are exhibited in the entertainment industry for human leisure in zoos, television, movies, and live performances. In line with the definition provided by Article 4(1) of the Services Directive, travelling circuses are classified as a service, which the EU legislators have the competence to regulate pursuant to Article 114 of . Arguments Against Zoos . For full information read our circus reporthere. Sometimes the beatings are so violent that they cause the animal to bleed. Also, during the off-season period, they are housed in tiny crates meant for traveling. The oldest still operating zoo in the world, Tiergarten Schnbrunn in Vienna, opened in 1752. A review of public records shows that most circuses have a history of using animals that tested positive for TB in their performances, which means there has been a persistent threat to public health. , specifically tigers, these animals have. Zoos stopped animal performances to distance themselves from circuses, but have reintroduced them because animals benefit from the stimulation. Bit ironic, isnt it? Proponents claim that there is evidence that animals enjoy performing and that they form bond with trainers. We should protect them in their own habitat and prevent their abuse elsewhere. Advantages of Zoos. The most common and cruel tactic for forcing animals to perform elaborate tricks is by terrifying them with different forms of physical (and mental) punishment. Most importantly, Simon managed to shut down some circus companies and even protested against the Ringling Bros. to take circus elephants off of shows. Even though Cholita has gained her freedom, she still carries the brutal scars of her time in the circus. In 2017, the Traveling Exotic Animal and Public Safety Protection Act was introduced, requiring 19 traveling American circuses with animals to swap to human performers or remain out of business. Many of the animals used in circuses are bred in captivity. Unfortunately, when the animals fight back, they are either shot or euthanized. Seeing animals abused on stage only teaches people that animals are here for human entertainment and that we can treat them in any way we please, regardless of their emotions and needs. 5/ Circus animals lead rewarding lives. These enraged elephants attacked pedestrians, destroyed buildings, and even severely injured some people. Even though all these animals are subjected to painful training methods, it seems that elephants have it worst. France: General ban on the use of wild animals as of 2028. That equates to animal cruelty. on this topic is by explaining the animals natural behavior and then contrasting it with the behavior in the circus. Global awareness of animal rights and wildlife conservation efforts are changing the sentimental feelings the circus once provoked. So, if a cruelty-free circus shows up in your town, check it out and show your support. 2. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Even though circuses in Cyprus, Greece, Bolivia, and Malta have banned the use of all animals (both wild and domestic), some countries still won't budge.\n\nThe US, France, and the UK are at the top of the list of countries that still use animals in shows. To be frank, the majestic performances are nothing more than a cruel display of unmitigated animal abuse accompanied by catchy music and cool lighting effects. Circuses, zoos, aquariums, dog fighting, hunting, fishing, horse racing, bullfighting all of these practices keep animals in captivity and use them against their will for human entertainment. Fortunately, there are plenty of petitions out there against animal cruelty in the circus. Next Pros And Cons Of Animal Cruelty They provide their animals with the best care and veterinary treatment and they make a profit from a career they love. 10/ The circus is a 250-year-old art form that Britain gave to the world. Required fields are marked *. Two of the most common animals involved in Pet Sports are dogs and horses. Well, in circuses, tigers are made to perform during the daytime, and they are forced to stay awake as long as the handler wants them to. While the circus created jobs for singers, dancers, entertainers, clowns and misfits who could levy their socially awkward physical appearance for a livelihood, it presented a challenge for the animals. Were you aware that tigers are actually semi-nocturnal creatures that are only active during the nighttime? It is illegal to euthanize endangered species for no reason. This includes elephants and moon bears. But the truth is very different. In his own words, Simon said that he wanted to see captured animals walk in grass for the very first time. A recent report commissioned by the Welsh Government concluded that "Life for wild animals in travelling circuses - doesn't appear to constitute either a 'good life' or a 'life worth living'". They were often overworked, beaten into submission and left to less-than-average food supplies on an irregular schedule. Jodi Strehlow has been a freelance writer since 1992 and has experience writing employee how-to handbooks. It is well documented that elephants are forced to perform these actions by being beaten with bullhooks, while young elephants are savagely constrained and beaten in a process known as the crush, which breaks their spirit and forces them to comply. Circuses train wild animals to perform unnatural acts for human amusement. The use of animals in captivity is a controversial issue, with arguments for and against the practice. When working with exotic animals people learn from them and they can learn life values such as compassion. 2/ An earlier study by animal behavourist Dr Marthe Kiley-Worthington found circus animals suffer no stress during performance, training or transportation. Not only did Bolivia manage to ban the use of wild animals in circus performances, but the ban also included domestic animals such as dogs and donkeys. The animals would often be overworked, beaten until they were willing to submit, and forced to live in confined conditions while trying to balance below average food supplies and irregular feeding schedules. Wild animals. Azizah binti Abbas (55559) 3. to such a great extent that they may start losing their hair, teeth, or both due to high levels of mental and physical stress. Circuses are just as capable as zoos for caring for animals. The Pros and Cons of Zoos for Wildlife Conservation As years have passed since the world's first scientific zoo was opened to the public in 1828 in London, a lot of things have changed for the better (Gray . The US, France, and the UK are at the top of the list of countries that still use animals in shows. and stop the exploitation of all animals, particularly white tigers. Hence, they are forced to eat, defecate, and sleep in the same confined space. Some cultural traditions are founded upon animal exploitation for entertainment purposes. Children have put together videos of reasons why animals should be included within the circus world as well as arguing their views for why animals should not be part of a circus act. Some zoos even put humans on display involuntarily, keeping them in cages well into the 20th century. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The most common and cruel tactic for forcing animals to perform elaborate tricks is by terrifying them with different forms of physical (and mental) punishment.\n\nThe animals are shocked, whipped, and beaten by their handlers, sometimes daily, and deprived of water and food.\n\nAlso, some trainers even drug the creatures or remove their claws and teeth to make them more tame."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What do circus animals eat? Numerous countries have based welfare acts that cover the treatment of animals, making their abuse a punishable crime that can lead to jail time. The average circus travels for 48 weeks of the year, and during this time, the animals are all confined to tiny cages, only just big enough . A lot of the time, when a circus animal is let out of the box, they are trained by whipping, hitting, poking, and shocking with electrical prods. Animals keep dying because zoo keepers and owners can not take good enough care of the animals, or have the time to feed the animals, or take the time to take good care of the animals. It can be defined as neglect or the infliction of pain or suffering towards animals. They are stripped of their natural habitats, and most may never see their families ever again. CONS The circus is another arena in which human beings abuse other animals. The Department of Agriculture will routinely inspect programs to ensure compliance with the current regulations as well. Finland: Ban on the use of apes, predators, elephants, hippopotami, marsupials, rhinoceroses, seals, crocodiles, predatory birds, ostriches, wild forms of ruminant or equine animals. Thankfully, on 1st January 2018, the use of wild animals in circuses was banned in Ireland. They also dine and use the restroom in the same little area. 1. And the list goes on. Sometimes they even harm themselves. Wild animals are kept captive for many reasons - find out about the difficulties of keeping wildlife. Your email address will not be published. Circuses Elephants, tigers, and other animals that circuses use to entertain audiences do not stand on their heads, jump through hoops, or balance on pedestals because they want to. Every aspect of the animal's life, diet and accommodation is governed by strict guidelines. Vicious training tactics are also used on mans best friend dogs. Big cats or other larger wild animals are confined to 'beast wagons' or chained in trucks. Among the reasons why animal zoos and circuses should be banned is that they confine the animals being trained to a specific place. Frequently, visitors feed large animals with iconic snacks such as peanuts and popcorn. 7. Finally, the future of orcas in captivity is discussed with both the pros and cons of housing these creatures. This paper discusses the pros and cons of banning zoos and circuses with two opposing philosophers. Sadly, circus animals are not treated like the stars they are. Tigers are semi-nocturnal creatures, but they are forced to stay awake during the day. that cannot take beatings anymore end up hurting humans and are eventually put down soon after. treatment is one of the most common ways trainers establish their dominance, often leading to dehydration and even starvation of the poor creature. Zoos, aquariums, water parks, and other facilities can help to maintain the viability of endangered species when humanity does not do a good enough job of protecting the animals in the wild. The conditions in which animals are kept in captivity can vary widely, with some facilities providing large naturalistic enclosures and proper care for the animals, while others may provide inadequate space and care. Circus animals are transported from location to location in cramped conditions. Animals should not be used in a circus. By being featured in a circus, an animal's plight or endangered position can be discussed and funds raised. , and encourage circuses featuring only human performers! So, please remember to spread the word and share this information with others! You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. The reason being that elephants are group animals that thrive in herds, typically composed of. Attending a circus event is a rite of passage for many youngsters. By the late 19th century, lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and other animals from overseas would travel the United States, performing shows on a large scale with zoological exhibits as a marketing point. In reality, many endure the worst conditions imaginable and receive horrific treatment from the circus to learn elaborate tricks and stunts for shows. We can see many different animals. Barnum in 1865. Over prolonged periods this can result in abnormal behaviours and health problems related to anxiety. The arguments for zoos. From an animal rights standpoint, humans do not have a right to breed, capture, and confine other animalseven if those species are endangered.Being a member of an . The behaviours they see are completely unnatural and give an entirely false impression of the lives and needs of animals. Fortunately, this article will attempt to expose the extreme horror that is the animal circus and what goes on behind closed doors (or, should I say cages). Animals should be banned in circuses. In reality,animal circuses teach our children nothing. suffered greatly at the hands of their handlers. When the circus is run ethically and animals can interact in positive ways with humans, then there is an educational benefit to consider. Of course, this fact applies only when animals (in captivity) receive proper treatment and care. Tigers, camels, lions, and other animals must endure the issues of training, transportation, and performances on a regular basis while being fearful of the natural instincts that drive them. Your freedom is heavier weight than economic interests or Keep the fun of the audience. China has banned animal circuses and Bolivia; Question: The Pros and Cons of the Circus Animals Attending a circus event is a rite of passage for many youngsters. Circus animals such as tigers and elephants are on the endangered species list. Now, do you remember Disneys animated movie Dumbo? 2. Not many of us know that circuses featuring animals are actually extremely cruel to those lovable creatures. So, lets say no to circus animal abuse and stop the exploitation of all animals, particularly white tigers. List of the Pros of Keeping Animals in Captivity 1. The use of animals in captivity should be minimized and done in a way that causes the least harm, and ensure that the animals are able to express their natural behaviours as much as possible. Bet you didnt know that most cages in which circus animals are kept while traveling are extremely small for the creature inside. According to circus cruelty facts, the secret to achieving this lies in something referred to as Operant Conditioning. Its a particular type of training method which relies on learning through rewards and punishments for specific behavior. There are very few chances for them to run around, play, or socialize with others of their species. The average life. , obesity is one of the leading health issues these creatures have to endure. It offers another avenue to consider for breeding programs. They are stripped of their natural habitats, and most may never see their families ever again. 5. Animals in zoos are trapped in cages, all day every day. The unique ability to observe and learn directly from live animals increases public . Seeing how animals are treated in the circus today, even if it is only as part of a zoological display, works to counteract that message. Once upon a time, a circus was a place where the most astonishing events, animals and entertainers could be seen by people who spent most of their time working to survive. What countries still use animals in circuses? Because the idea that wild animals belong to the circus is outdated. Hence, tigers in circuses live in a highly unnatural way. He used a 42-foot diameter ring for his tricks, and that has been the standard size used by the circus ever since. The same gene responsible for the white coat is also linked with the optic nerve, wiring it to the wrong side of the brain. This can arise more danger for zoo personnel, as well as visitors. Our US tax identification number is 31-1802788. Wild animals in circuses are now banned in England and Wales. Bet this one caught you completely off-guard! Banning circuses from using animals would decrease the number of species in captivity and increase the chance of extinction. Unfortunately, the lack of exercise does not only apply to when the circus is on the move but in general. Whether youre studying times tables or applying to college, Classroom has the answers. Unfortunately, these boxcars usually have no climate control. Constant travel exposes the animals to heat exhaustion. There are health risks to consider with some circus animals. Kids can now learn about them in early school programs, watch documentaries about them on Animal Planet, and interact with learning lessons online that make the experiences feel real. Then there was Benjamin, a 4-year-old elephant who drowned while attempting to swim in a pond after being tortured with a bullhook. whether wild or domesticated are poorly treated, and the practice should be eliminated altogether. Bull fighting practices are legal in Spain, Mexico and parts of France. Fish and Wildlife Service. Many of the circus animals that traditionally tour with the show are on the endangered species list. While it is possible that domesticated dogscouldenjoy the stimulation of certain types of circus training and performance, for wild species such as tigers, bears and macaques, performing on stage is deeply traumatic. Just think of Gus, a polar bear kept in Central Park Zoo, who, in the mid-1990s, worried spectators as he obsessively swam up and down his tiny pool, sometimes even for 12 hours a day. Yes, indeed, all white tigers are cross-eyed. So, even though the audience may believe that the trainer is petting the. List of Pros of Animals in Captivity. Unfortunately, after one of his performances in 1885, he was hit by a train and killed on the spot. Training techniques involve using whips and other devices to force animals to act. By placing them in shelters or zoos they will be able to recover from their injuries and be protected. In circuses, animals are made to perform unnatural tricks which no individual would willingly carry out. NerdySeal . 12. 6/ Children are enthralled by circus animals. 1,408 15. The whips, tight collars, muzzles, electric prods, bullhooks, and other tools used during circus acts are reminders that the animals are being forced to perform. Sheila Lehrke, the animal issues coordinator for the International Professional Rodeo Association, has a brochure full of rules and guidelines for handling livestock that govern all association. Part of HuffPost News. I dont know who you are but certainly youre going to a famous blogger if you Even then, any animal that is forced to do tricks as a way to generate applause is one that is being potentially abused for the sake of human income. The 18-month study, sponsored by the RSPCA and published as Animals in Circuses and Zoos: Chiron's World? Ever wondered why larger animals such as bears, tigers, and lions keep pacing back and forth in their cages? 7/ It's what the public want to see. Although this is a great step, domesticated animals such as horses, dogs, goats, llamas and birds are sadly still permitted to be used in Irish circuses. 6 - An exhibit could be brought near you. 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. So what are Herminas favorite topics to cover? Is it any wonder why some of them eventually lash out at people? Elephants in this situation would sometimes be hit with batons with a sharp metal hook until they bleed to force them to do dangerous stunts for their body size, like standing on their heads or perching on small pedestals. According to facts on circus animal abuse, the first circus elephant was sold to the notorious P.T. Animals in circuses develop abnormal behaviors. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. A. lthough the UKs Government pledged to ban them in 2012, the individual Conservative MPs still repeatedly block the bills. Wild animals have naturally evolved to be comfortable with certain environments, habitats, and climates. RSPCA 2023. Many people believe that, even with the best conditions and intentions of zoos, these establishments cannot provide the perfect environment for every animal. People take part, considering them to be fun, entertaining, artistic or cultural . Finding suitable homes for former circus animals is difficult. The key to a successful experience is to provide the animals with enough space to live comfortably while traveling, and then providing an enclosure that simulates their natural habitat with as much space as possible. Not only do these powerless animals travel with the circus for extended periods each year, but they also travel long distances in tiny boxcars. The Pros and Cons of the Circus Animals Attending a circus event is a rite of passage for many youngsters. Using trained animals in the circus. The living conditions at circuses consistently fail to meet the animals most basic needs. Circuses are much older than that, with the Circus Maximum a critical staple of Rome during the Roman Empire. Often, they are confined to small spaces where they are forced to either stay sedentary or pace up and down for hours upon hours. Most circus trainers act ethically and responsibly with their animals. Natural animal behaviors are changed. Animals such as camels will spend their time in animal tents, in fenced-off areas or tethered to graze. 8. There are plenty of horror stories about the abuse of circus animals if you go looking for them. . Its a particular type of training method which relies on learning through rewards and punishments for specific behavior. Animals in the wild are endangered by human predators and shrinking habitats, and live short, dangerous lives. For example, you can transport wild animals: for veterinary treatment or for re-homing. We also know that no bear bile farmers in Vietnam were able to successfully breed captive bears so where are the circus animals coming from? According to law enforcement documents from Canadian and American officials, a single tusk African elephant, also of the same name, was beaten in public to the point where she was screaming and bending down on three legs to avoid being hit. Captive animals can't behave, socialise or get enough exercise as they would in the wild. Bible Commentary Bible Verses Devotionals Faith Prayers Coloring Pages Pros and Cons, John 14:27 Meaning of Peace I Leave with You My Peace I Give to You, 50 Biblically Accurate Facts About Angels in the Bible, 50 Most Profitable Youth Group Fundraising Ideas for Your Church, 250 Ice Breaker Questions for Teen Youth Groups, 25 Important Examples of Pride in the Bible, Why Jesus Wept and 11 Lessons from His Tears, 25 Different Ways to Worship God and Praise the Lord. Zoos can raise awareness on our environmental problems. One of his most notable performances included him leading a parade of elephants over the famous Brooklyn Bridge. From my observations at ringside, it's the only form of entertainment where the under-fives are guaranteed to enjoy themselves as much as their grandparents, making it a cheap day out for all the family. Not to mention that this process goes on for generations on end. Circuses: Pros: -Entertainment/amusement -Education -Animals are kept safe/ healthy with regimented food and medication that they wouldn't get in the wild. Circuses, aquariums, and zoos have . Since 2000, there have been over 35 serious cases of elephants escaping circuses and running wild through city streets. There were two other incidents that involved an elephant named Tyke that were attributed to her in 1993 as well. They provide a safe refuge for endangered or injured animals, but these parks can be abusive in their treatment of creatures as well. But when Stanley Johnson and a group of politicians delivered a petition to 10 Downing Street on Wednesday, calling for a ban on wild animals in the big top, I wondered how many of them had first-hand experience of how circuses care for their animals. 96 percent of circus animals are kept in cages for 11 months of the year. The best way to educate kids on this topic is by explaining the animals natural behavior and then contrasting it with the behavior in the circus. Fortunately, there are plenty of petitions out there against. Siti Ferhana binti Albidu (57884) 4. Now, they have to ensure that the animals are not being abused by them. of elephants held in captivity is lameness and foot issues. In conclusion, animals used for entertainment whether wild or domesticated are poorly treated, and the practice should be eliminated altogether. In addition to that, her toes were cut off, and she also suffers from alopecia. Zoos provide opportunities for nice family trips. Animals Asia Foundation, LimitedAnimals Asia Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Circuses with wild animals are strictly regulated by a licensing scheme, introduced in 2012, that sees them inspected by vets six times a year (twice unannounced) with the results available online.