This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.

Forcing exotic animals to perform for our entertainment is clearly cruel. Elephants, tigers, camels, lions, monkeys, and other so-called “exotic” species are subjected to this abuse across much of the United States, despite the existence of nearly 100 local circus cruelty bans within 32 states. This is why In Defense of Animals is proud to support the Traveling Exotic Animal and Public Safety Protection Act (TEAPSPA). Animals suffering physical abuse and extreme confinement in traveling circuses need your urgent help now: ask your federal legislators to pass this nation-wide bill!

Representatives Raúl Grijalva and David Schweikert have reintroduced TEAPSPA, which aims to prohibit the use of exotic and wild animals in traveling performances. Now, a “companion bill” has been introduced in the Senate — meaning that this bill is closer to becoming law than ever.

Keeping any animals captive in zoos or circuses is never justified, but the plight of exotic animals in traveling acts is particularly egregious. Forced continual travel, extreme confinement and endless performance of degrading tricks can cause a host of physical and psychological trauma for these individuals.

Companies that exploit animals in these ways are facing increasing opposition across the continent. In June, the city of Cincinnati banned the use of exotic animals in traveling acts, the state of California is currently considering similar legislation, and the pressure is being turned upon organizations such as the Shriners that regularly hire traveling circuses for fundraising purposes.

What You Can Do

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.