Ban Animal Acts in Your Hometown
Animals in circuses are trained with abuse and intimidation, and they spend most of their lives in extreme confinement. They also pose a serious threat to public safety—elephants, tigers, bears, primates, and other animals have escaped and caused countless deaths and injuries to members of the public. Because federal laws are weak and poorly enforced, many state and local governments have enacted stricter laws to protect animals and the public.
The federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA), enforced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, establishes only minimal standards for the care of certain species used in circuses and other exhibitions. The AWA does not prohibit the use of bullhooks, whips, electric prods, and other devices that cause pain and injury. The AWA does not require that elephants with a history of deadly rampages be retired. Furthermore, no government agency monitors training sessions, where beatings occur behind the scenes.
Some localities have passed ordinances that ban the use of wild animals in circuses, often out of consideration for public safety. Others have prohibited the use of bullhooks and other tools that inflict pain and injury.
Here is a step-by-step guide to assist you in banning exotic animal acts in your town. We have also included several links to resources that you may find useful.
Good luck in your efforts, and please contact us if you need assistance. If you succeed in getting legislation introduced, we would be happy to alert PETA members in the area and urge them to support the ordinance.
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abused in the name of "entertainment." Click
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