Lions and tigers and bears...do not belong on the road! It is impossible for circuses and other traveling exhibitors to meet the very complex needs of wild and exotic animals. Circuses and other traveling shows subject the animals they exploit to unnatural environments, constant travel and long hours of cramped confinement, and cruel training techniques that often involve physical abuse. All this takes a toll on the animals and—combined with close proximity to the public—accidents can (and do) occur. Over 30 serious incidents have occured since 2000—including deaths of both animals and trainers and injuries to audience members.
It is long past the time when society should have stopped subjecting animals to inhumane conditions for our supposed “entertainment.” Recognizing the serious need to lessen the misery experienced by these animals, Rep. Jim Moran (D-VA) has introduced H.R. 3359, the Traveling Exotic Animal Protection Act. H.R. 3359 would improve the well-being of wild and exotic animals by restricting their use in traveling shows. The legislation, which has 15 cosponsors to date, has been referred to the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy and Poultry.