Encyclopedia Britannica Publishes Latest Animal Welfare Article by Ira Fischer

JUPITER, Fla. - March 22, 2015 - PRLog -- Ringling’s Relent on Elephants as Performers Was Long Overdueby Ira Fischer has been published by Encyclopedia Britannica’s Advocacy for Animals.

The article opens by noting that “Faced with mounting pressure from animal welfare organizations and bans and restrictions by local jurisdictions, Ringling Brothers finally relented on the use of elephants as entertainment”. The writer notes, “For the most part, the circus is a wonderful event. The clowns, acrobats and other performers provide terrific entertainment”. He also points out, “However, behind the rose-colored facade there is a dark side to the big top that has been kept far from public view”.

The piece discusses the plight of wild animals - - such as tigers and elephants - - that are forced to perform “tricks” contrary to their nature. The writer argues that the tools of the trade used by trainers (such as whips and bullhooks) belie industry claims that circuses do not use cruel methods to train animals. The question is raised: “Does the use of wild animals as performers in circuses send a wrong message to children that cruelty to animals is acceptable?”

The observation is made that with laws now banning wild animals in circuses in 27 countries and ordinances banning or restricting such events in dozens of jurisdictions in the US, the trend indicates that governments are finding the use of wild animals as performers unacceptable. The article also notes that the growing popularity of animal-free circuses, such as Cirque du Soleil, suggests that the public too finds objectionable circuses that feature animals as entertainment.

To view the article visit: http://advocacy.britannica.com/blog/advocacy/2015/03/ringlings-decision-on-elephant-acts-is-long-overdue/#more-16867

Ira Fischer devotes his retirement from the practice of law to the cause of animal welfare through advocacy. The mission of the writer’s website [http://irafischer.com] isKindness and Compassion for Animals.

The article is copyright protected. The writer welcomes its posting by reputable media.