Animal abuse in showbiz

Animals are being used as a source of entertainment to attract people to visit certain destinations, shows, etc. Hidden behind these glamorous shows and destinations is an image that we humans fail to see. Most of the animals used for tourist entertainment and shows are treated cruelly, tied, prodded, sometimes even drugged just so that we “animal lovers” can watch them do tricks. They are kept in tiny enclosures and transported in cages when they should be out in the wild, in their natural habitat.

Behind the fancy tricks and Instagram-friendly vacation pictures, we seldom think about the hidden cruelties that we indirectly support. The consequences of keeping wild animals in captivity are severe. They are unpredictable and very often we see them attack trainers and showbiz performers on stage. Several investigations by PETA have shown that elephants and tigers in circuses are constantly hit in the face or ears using sticks and baton when they exhibit even the slightest of their instinctive behaviors.

The only reason this still happens on such a large scale is that we pay to watch these shows. Every year, millions of dollars are spent supporting the industries that treat animals with cruelty. Watching them jump through rings of fire or hoops may be amusing and cute to us, but, for them, it is a terrifying reality where they are being denied their basic necessities. 

Animals fascinate us humans but that does not mean that we hold them captive to perform in shows and events. Fortunately, today, many states and countries are recognizing this and have moved to support animal rights. We, as responsible citizens need to do the right thing and educate others about the atrocities faced by these animals and should move to cruelty-free alternatives.