This summer Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus setup shop in Coney Island. Since we usually head over to Coney during this weekend and the Circus is fitting with the overall attitude of the area Cathy and I decided to go see the show. We have been somewhat apprehensive about going to a circus due to allegations of animal abuse. Personally I have never doubted that abuse was common place years ago but I never believe that abuse was present today, especially with so many active animal rights groups around the nation. The truth of the the matter is we would be perfectly fine with a circus completely devoid of animals and replaced by unique human feats and abilities. Unfortunately animals such as Elephants and Tigers have become staples of the Circus are not likely to disappear anytime soon. The show itself was entertaining but we couldn’t help but notice how sad the Elephants and Tigers looked. We simply wrote it off as a their being unhappy about leading a caged life and the fact that it was such a hot weekend.

Today PETA released hidden camera footage which uncovers active abuse within the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. In the footage Elephants are repeatedly hit and beaten with bull hooks for no reason. The actions clearly hurt the animals because they cower each time a trainer brandishes the weapon. We are both extremely sorry we attended the circus, and thus indirectly supported such abuse. We sincerely hope that the abusive practices are eliminated and/or these animals, especially those who were subject to abuse, are set free to live the remainder of their lives on an animal preserve or a zoo where they will be properly cared for. We also encourage people NOT TO ATTEND A CIRCUS THAT EXPLOITS ANIMALS.You can catch the video below. Be warned as the video graphically displays animal abuse.

Feature image credit: http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9Gsu_hMGnVk/ScM-yESs3AI/AAAAAAAAFY8/wyZnZ8EJrD0/s400/no+ringling+sitt.JPG