Elephants Carol, Patty, and Lou were exploited in cruel circuses for years. But instead of being given the rest and relaxation that they desperately need, they’re forced to participate in bathing, feeding, toenail painting, and photo interactions at Myakka Elephant Ranch in Florida during the winter and at Wilstem Wildlife Park in Indiana in the summer.
Unsurprisingly, the Barreda family, which runs the Florida roadside zoo, has a history of disregarding elephants’ well-being. When the animals were on the road, the family failed to offer Lou adequate veterinary care for a large lump on her face that was secreting a bloody discharge, and they kept elephants like her on short chains for 24 hours a day! Treating elephants like this is a pernicious form of speciesism, discrimination based solely on species membership.
Elephants are sensitive, highly intelligent animals who need space to roam, forage, socialize, and play on their own terms. Those used in circuses and direct encounters are denied the opportunity to satisfy their instinctual needs and desires. They’re trained using abusive methods to force them into submission. As babies, they’re chained down until their spirits are broken. Then, they’re jabbed and beaten with bullhooks—sharp weapons that resemble a fireplace poker—and shocked with electric prods until they learn to “behave.”
Please urge the Barreda family to give Lou, Carol, and Patty the rest and relaxation that they deserve by retiring them to an accredited sanctuary.
POST POLITE COMMENTS FOR MYAKKA ELEPHANT RANCH ON FACEBOOK
Please feel free to use our sample letter, but remember that using your own words is always more effective.
The post Urge Myakka Elephant Ranch to Stop Exploiting Lou, Carol, and Patty appeared first on PETA.
Enviroshop is maintained by dedicated NetSys Interactive Inc. owners & employees who generously contribute their time to maintenance & editing, web design, custom programming, & website hosting for Enviroshop.