The Dayton-area protest is part of PETA’s ongoing effort to ban the use of animals in all circuses, especially at Ringling Bros. which was fined $270,000 late last year by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The circus agreed to settle allegations that it violated federal animal-welfare laws in its handling of elephants, tigers, zebras and other exotic animals.
While it does not admit wrongdoing, spokesman Steve Payne said it was a measure taken to move on from the issue.
PETA alleges elephants are stretched, slammed to the ground, gouged with steel-tipped bullhooks and shocked with electric prods.
But Payne defends the circus’ animal-treatment record.
“We are a licensed exhibitor by the USDA and we are very proud of our animal care, and as a part of that settlement (with the USDA), we have clearly and consistently demonstrated to the USDA that we are providing the very best of care,” Payne said.
Patton, however, said those paying to see the circus in Dayton Thursday, are paying to see animals that are suffering from “painful ailments.”
PETA is calling for three elephants in particular, Luna, Siam and Aussan, who are currently traveling with the circus, to be retired.
There have been no cancellations or changes in the tour schedule as a result of the fines or protests, Payne said.
But that was the aim of the protesters at the northeast corner of North Fairfield Road and Colonel Glenn Highway Thursday.
“If we can talk one person out of buying a ticket, it’s worth the effort,” said protester Susan Townsend, of Oakwood.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-6986 or Kareem.Elgazzar@coxinc.com.
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