Think twice

The Kelly Miller Circus is coming to town, and if caring area residents learned more about this outfit’s sordid history, they’ll think twice before buying a ticket. The Kelly Miller Circus is notorious for failing animals.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has repeatedly cited the circus and the exhibitors it contracts with for violating federal animal protection regulations, including for using an electric prod on zebras and camels. Eyewitnesses also reported seeing zebras and camels being whipped, including a baby zebra who limped in pain after being struck.
Elephants traveling with Kelly Miller spend most of their lives jammed in tractor trailers being hauled from one venue to the next. They live in fear of being whacked with bullhooks - heavy batons with a sharp steel hook on the end. Joey Frisco, the elephant trainer traveling with Kelly Miller, was caught on video hooking and yanking elephants in the Ringling Bros. circus. The Carden family, who provides the elephants, has experienced two elephant escapes, and at least two of the elephants it uses tested positive for tuberculosis. The USDA has cited George Carden Circus International for failing to provide an elephant with open wounds with adequate veterinary care.
Parents, grandparents, please don’t let your little ones believe that cruelty to animals is “OK.” Explain why you won’t be buying tickets to the circus.
Jennifer O'Connor
PETA Foundation
Norfolk, Virginia