All About Animals in Entertainment
Rodeos
Rodeos are made up of four major events - bull riding, bronc riding, steer wrestling, and calf roping. These spectator “sports” are terrifying for the animals and can lead to severe stress, injury, and even death. After the animals have served their assigned purpose, they will be sent to slaughter and replaced by new animals.
Being prey animals, bulls, calves, steers, and horses feel safest when with their herd. For these events, the animals are separated, and feel like they are being chased or attacked by a “predator”. On top of this, bulls are tormented to provoke them into being “aggressive”. Whilst in the chute, the bulls are shocked with electric prodders, jabbed with spurs, kicked and hit, have their tails twisted and pulled, and fingers shoved up their nose [1].
In NSW, it is not required to have a veterinarian on-site, meaning that some bulls have been forced to walk out of the arena and are loaded onto a truck, to be transported elsewhere to be euthanised [2].
Dr C.G. Haber, a veterinarian who spent 30 years as a federal meat inspector, worked in slaughterhouses in the United States and saw many animals discarded from rodeos and sold for slaughter. He described the animals as being “so extensively bruised that the only areas in which the skin was attached (to the flesh) were the head, neck, leg, and belly. “I have seen animals with six to eight ribs broken from the spine and at times, puncturing the lungs. I have seen as much as two to three gallons of free blood accumulated under the detached skin.”
Circuses
According to the Australian standards, circus animals can be given just 45 minutes exercise, 4 days of every week, and it can be in the form of training sessions and/or public performance – meaning no time to exercise as they please. This standard does not apply when the circus is travelling or when the animals are in a layover period. Additionally, all animals must have access to a display cage for a minimum of six hours each day during daylight hours – meaning they can spend 18 hours in smaller enclosures [3 PDF].
The captive life, travelling, and training methods can cause the circus animals to develop stereotypic behaviour – defined as a repetitive, invariant behaviour pattern with no obvious goal or function – such as pacing, bar biting, and swaying, as a result of frustration, boredom and depression [4, 5, 6].
Australian animal welfare standards state that only positive reinforcement training is allowed, however, it is unclear what goes on behind the scenes [7]. Exposés of animals around the globe have shown that animals are trained by negative reinforcement, such as being beaten, prodded with electric prods, controlled with choke ropes, and deprived of food and water [8].
Zoos
A zoo or aquarium is a facility that confines animals in enclosures, to be put on display for humans. Across the globe, species of all kinds are held captive in enclosures that are a fraction of the size of the animal’s natural environment and are often not protected by any welfare laws. Although zoos go to great lengths to mimic the natural habitats of animals, they remain artificial environments and provide significantly less room than the animal would have in the wild. For example, sharks and polar bears can travel up to 80km a day, but in their tanks and enclosures, are forced to swim and walk in circles, never experiencing life as they were intended to [9, 10].
Captivity brings with it issues of creating and maintaining the perfect temperature for the animal’s enclosure, feeding animals unnatural or inefficient diets, altering their feeding patterns, inbreeding, and removing their freedom.
Animals in captivity develop depression called zoochosis, as well as stereotypic behaviour - repetitive or abnormal actions. Stereotypic behaviour is an issue that is of primary concern relating to captive animal welfare [11, 12, 13]. Captive animals frequently display stereotypies due to stress, boredom, loneliness, frustration and the inability to carry out their natural behaviour (this is also seen in factory-farmed animals for the same reasons). Just as we get bored being stuck in the same environment, so do the animals. In this instance, our “fun” activity of visiting the zoo, is the reason for their suffering.
Young animals are a draw-card for crowds, and as a result, zoos conduct breeding programs. The animals who are no longer seen as profitable, or as a “surplus”, are sold or traded to other zoos, or killed. This separation of animals damages any bonds they may have made with one another.
While some zoos may contribute a small portion of their time and effort to conservation projects, the animals who are rehabilitated will likely never be released into their natural habitat. Additionally, the vast majority of animals trapped are not on the endangered list. Ex-zoo director, David Hancocks, estimates that less than 3% of profits go towards conservation [14].
Petting Zoo
Petting zoos only display young and “cute” animals, meaning they facilitate a never-ending cycle of breeding, mother-baby separation, abandonment, and premature death. Exhibitors breed or acquire young animals, who are prematurely taken from their mothers, to be displayed to the public. As they grow older, they are ‘retired’, which often means slaughtered and replaced by baby animals.
Horse & Pony Rides
Across Australia, horses and ponies spend a large portion of their time confined to stables. Being kept isolated goes against the natural behaviours of these animals, as they are social and grazing animals denied the ability to interact and roam. Over prolonged periods of time, confinement can lead to chronic social frustration and stereotypic behaviours [15].
Most ponies who are used for rides at local carnivals or childrens’ parties are condemned to an unnatural life of misery on the road. They are constantly being transported between destinations, have little to no control over their interactions, and are denied their natural grazing behaviours.
Studies into working horses and ponies have found that they experience chronic stress, depression, and behavioural disorders, apathy, and are more withdrawn [16].
Horses who are reluctant to listen or be involved are sold at the sales and replaced by individuals who are more willing to cooperate. In the case of ponies, if one becomes sick or worn out, they are easily replaced, as this option is in many cases cheaper than providing them with veterinary care.
Animal Liberation staff witnessed ponies, both young and old, being sold at the sale yard for as little as $15, and older horses being sold for just $150 – often to kill-buyers (buyers who intent to slaughter the horse for pet food or meat).
Camel Rides & Racing
With the cruelty associated with elephant rides coming to light in recent years, camel rides are interestingly not receiving the same attention - Both Bactrian and Dromedary camels have an encephalization quotient (EQ) value of 1.3, which is a similar level to the intelligence of the African elephant, and greater than that of the horse [17].
Approximately 20,000 camels were introduced to Australia between 1840 and 1907. When they were no longer needed, due to the increase in motor transport, people set them free, and soon after, they were classified as a feral ‘pest’ species.
Camels are naturally very timid creatures and rather than “fight” or “flight”, they will typically freeze when scared or threatened. Once captured, the wild camels must undergo weeks to months of training, which ultimately breaks their spirits and allows them to be controlled by the workers. They must learn, for example, to stay laying down so that people can climb onto them, stand with heavy weights on their backs, walk in a line, and obey human commands. The camels at varying facilities are often made to do multiple tours and rides every day, up to 7 days a week.
As camels are large animals, people desired a way to have more control over them. To achieve this, a hole is punctured into their nose and a wooden or plastic peg is inserted with a rope attached to it. This way, if the camel becomes “unruly”, tugging on the nose peg and the pain it causes will force the camel to comply [18].
Goat Racing
Goat racing is a ‘sport’ that involves capturing wild goats, harnessing them to a cart, and forcing them to race [19]. The goats used in racing are typically wild or semi-wild, and as a result they are not accustomed to humans or physical constraints, causing them to suffer from stress. Evident in an Animal Liberation investigation, once the race began, some goats collapsed to the ground with fright. Other goats attempted to escape, crashing headfirst into fences, leaving some bleeding and others knocked unconscious. Many showed signs of exhaustion by collapsing [20]. Due to pressure and coverage, the Roma goat race has reduced the number of racing goats and made other changes to the event. While this is a win, it is still unnatural for a goat to be captured, strapped to a cart with a harness, and to pull more than their body weight.
Animal-Friendly Activities
Changing our diets to be more ethical is just one aspect of living a cruelty-free lifestyle. It is equally important for us to be respectful and kind to all animals – including those who are used for entertainment purposes. Visiting zoos, aquariums, petting zoos, circuses, watching camel races, and riding ponies, horses, and camels perpetuates the idea that animals are here for us, in this instance as nothing more than entertainment props.
Being animal lovers, we understand why people want to be around animals. Often we find them exotic or interesting for us to see in person, so we want to get up close, or we find them cute and cuddly and we want to pat or hold them. Before we participate in activities or events, however, we should always stop to question whether our fun is at the expense of anyone else.
There are countless activities for you and the family to enjoy that are animal-friendly! Below are some ideas for things to do, ranging from surrounding yourself with rescues to animals in nature, through to completely animal-free (but still fun!) –
1. Visit a farmed animal sanctuary
Credit: Edgar’s Mission
There are so many reasons to visit an animal sanctuary! The best part is, you will get to see these gorgeous animals living life just as they were meant to. These animals are ambassadors for their friends who are still stuck in the violent system, and connecting with them will be sure to inspire you and any accompanying visitors. While you may have held a baby duckling or chick, hand-fed a lamb, or hugged a calf, you most likely haven’t seen an adult cow running with joy, or had the pleasure of rubbing the belly of a 300kg pig. We promise you, you’ll fall in love with these curious, interesting creatures and learn so much about their kind through their stories.
There are a few important reasons why sanctuaries differ from zoos –
Firstly, the animals in sanctuaries are domesticated, meaning they are familiar with people and your presence does not cause them stress (in most cases). Secondly, the carers have the animals wellbeing as their utmost priority and accommodate their individual needs. This means that certain animals who may not enjoy being around people, for example, aren’t forced to be on show and can easily hide! Guests are also escorted around by a volunteer to ensure the animals are safe and enjoying the experience. Lastly, the animals in sanctuaries were saved from the cruel farming system, abandonment, or rescued from cases of neglect. They were given a second chance at life, and by visiting, you are helping the carers continue to care for them, and future rescues!
2. Help out at the local animal shelter
If you love being around animals, why not volunteer at your local animal shelter? Volunteering is not only rewarding for you but can also change the life of the animals who are looking for homes. Roles can range from dog walking, helping with feeding and cleaning, through to fundraising and administration assistance (usually while surrounded by animals in need). Call up your local shelter to find out what sort of help they are after, or if any of the animals need some company, exercise, or playtime.
3. Go hiking or camping
Spending time outdoors means that you might be lucky enough to observe animals in their natural habitat – which is far more enjoyable than watching them in a cage, enclosure, race, or performing an unnatural trick. There are walking tracks in local parks, reserves, and national parks which vary in difficulty level and time, so walks can be as easy and pram-friendly or as challenging as you’d like. You don’t have to go too deep into Australia’s bushland to see amazing wildlife; bush turkeys, lyrebirds, kookaburras, turtles, water dragons, wallabies, koalas – granted some are a lot shyer than others, so keep your eyes peeled!
4. Go on a whale or dolphin watching cruise
Animals in aquariums are confined to tanks that would be the equivalent of you being stuck in the space of a swimming pool, for life. There is so much we are yet to understand or appreciate, about the social behaviours and intelligence of sea animals, and having them confined and displayed is no more justifiable than it is for land mammals or primates. Instead, why not spend the day on the ocean seeing these majestic marine creatures swim in their natural environment! For your best chance at spotting whales in the big blue, find out the peak whale periods for your area either online or with the chosen cruise company.
5. Go to a museum
With so many types of museums, there is undoubtedly something for everyone. From art, science, and technology, to history and animals of the past, each museum and exhibition is fascinating for different reasons! You can take the time to browse and learn about the different historical events, inventions, dinosaurs, or artists, or, you can just peruse the countless rooms and spaces and enjoy seeing all the displays. While the MOMA might not be one to thrill the kids, natural history museums tend to have impressive T-Rex skeletons or life-size whale statues which are sure to capture their attention!
6. Ride a bike
Hire bikes (or a tandem bicycle if you’re up for the challenge) and explore the city or local park, or go for a coastal ride! This alternative is not only better for your health, but also the environment – cycling is one of the most eco-friendly ways to get around. Depending on where you go, you might even see some wild animals going about their days in nature. If there’s a pond in a local park, there’s probably ducks or turtles – just remember not to throw them breadcrumbs as bread can upset these little guys’ stomachs! Instead, bring along some peas which are nutritionally great for them. Along the coast, maybe you’ll spot some dolphins – or at the very least, seagulls (lots of them).
7. Watch an all-human circus
Credit: Matt Beard Photography
All human circuses are full of brilliant acts, from acrobats and trapeze performance to musicians, dancers, hoopers, tightrope walkers, jugglers, magicians, unicyclists, as well as other object manipulation, and stunt-oriented artists. It is an incredible display of talent and skill and most importantly, everyone involved wants to be there!
8. Visit a fun park or carnival (and skip the animal sections)
While most carnivals have animal displays or petting zoos, you can still go without supporting this aspect. Instead of riding the ponies or patting the baby lambs (who are killed when they are no longer “cute”), jump on a mechanical ride and have all the fun without the suffering.
9. Watch a documentary
The best way to learn about animals is by viewing them in their natural habitat! You can easily done through the countless documentaries that exist online. The National Geographic and David Attenborough are able to transport us to these amazing worlds, showing us the true behaviour and lives of animals.
Next time you see an animal confined to a cage or tank, tied up, or being handled and passed around, consider this – if you were given food and a place to sleep, but all your natural behaviours, freedoms, friends and family were stripped from you, how happy would you be? It is possible for us to live fulfilling, enjoyable lives, without using others for entertainment. So get your sneakers on and (plant-based) lunches packed – there are tracks to be trekked and rescue animals to dote over!
Meet Arna
Asian elephants, particularly females, are incredibly social animals who live in herds. These herds are known to spend their time exploring the forest, travelling up to 80 km in a single day and will take dips in the water when they can. They also love to eat large amounts of tree bark, roots, leaves, and small stems, as well as cultivated crops [1].
Life for Arna was incredibly different from this.
In 1958, Arna was born in the wild. At approximately two years old, she was shipped to Adelaide and in 1964, became part of the Perry Bros circus. After 29 years, she was sold to Stardust – previously called Lennon’s – where she spent the next 18 years [2].
Arna’s only friend, Bambi, another Asian elephant, tragically died in 1996, after anaesthesia complications during treatment for an injured foot. Arna spent the next 6-years alone. Her life involved shackles around her legs, a small enclosure, constant travel, bright lights, loud music and crowds, and performing unnatural tricks for people all over the country – a far cry from the life of a wild Asian elephant.
In 2000, Animal Liberation campaigned for her release. Our calls were joined by fashion designer, Stella McCartney, the Pretenders’ lead singer, Chrissie Hynde, the Silverchair frontman, Daniel Johns, the spoon bender, Uri Geller, the German pop star, Nina Hagen, the Sydney bar owner, Justin Hemmes, and the Nova radio announcer, Bianca Dye.
Animal Liberation was accompanied by Dr Roger Mugford, an animal behaviour expert, to Stardust circus. They captured evidence and he wrote a report for the Department of Agriculture, highlighting numerous breaches to the Exhibited Animals Protection Act. Dr Mugford advised strongly that the circus be closed on the grounds of inadequate provision for its animals and many areas of public safety concern. Aside from keeping Arna alone, some other findings were:
She had no access to overnight shelter
There was no access to drinking water (a hose was put in her mouth a couple of times each day)
She had a poor diet
Her ears had been damaged by the use of an ankus or other short instrument, commonly used in cruel training methods
Her feet and skin were badly neglected, the E.A.P. recommends elephants receive daily bathing/scrubbing.
After the public became more aware of Arna’s plight, the circus brought three elephants to visit Arna. Animal Liberation was there to film her interaction with them and her distress when they left.
In 2001, Animal Liberation took the circus to the Supreme Court on the basis of animal cruelty. Unfortunately, we lost the case and Arna was left to continue her miserable existence with the circus. In 2002, the circus agreed to pair Arna with Gigi, another lone elephant from Ashton Circus.
But the psychological damage from spending 6-years alone was already done.
In 2007, at age 49, Arna killed her handler just moments before her performance. He was found face down with a broken back and ruptured aorta – a sign that she had crushed him. Mark Pearson, Animal Liberation’s CEO at the time, was informed by a trapeze artist at the circus that Arna and Gigi’s handler, had beaten Gigi with a piece of 4 by 2 timber, before approaching Arna. She had enough and took a stand for her beloved friend and herself.
As it has been noted in other cases, elephants who kill, will kill again, and so the circus agreed to release Arna and Gigi to the Western Plains Zoo. This day marked the final day of elephants being exploited in Australian circuses. Arna and Gigi were finally able to experience a somewhat “normal” life, free from shackles, tiny enclosures, travel, loud music, and unnatural performances.
The zookeepers said Arna was a very calm elephant, while Gigi had a cheeky and lively personality. They formed a close friendship with Burma, another elderly Asian elephant and all three would spend their days swimming in their pool, touching trunks, and sharing food [3].
In 2012, Arna peacefully passed away at 54 years old, due to age-related illness. She was mourned by Gigi. Gigi remained with Burma and passed away just last year, at 61 years of age.
While elephants are finally free from a miserable life in the circus (in Australia), lions, monkeys, horses, ponies, goats, pigs, and dogs are still made to perform several times a week. All of these animals suffer on some level due to their unnatural life on the road. Please help them, by never attending these events.
