Secondary School Level

All of us have been to a circus and watched with amazement as animals performed their tricks. We have never, however, paused to consider how an elephant can balance on a ball or how the bear jumps through rings of fire or how the tigers ride bicycles. If we knew the horrendous truth behind these carefully orchestrated acts we wouldn't stand in queues to buy tickets to watch these animals perform.

Animals are forcefully taught to perform these physically difficult tricks by whip-wielding trainers who use not just whips but tight collars, muzzles, electric rods, and bull hooks too. Animals in circuses are trained with abuse and intimidation and they are kept in extreme confinement. These animals were not meant to entertain us, they were meant to roam wild and free.

Many countries have banned the use of animals in their circuses. In poor countries banning the use of these animals amounts to the loss of livelihood of those working with them. Although this is true, it can hardly be reason enough to continue using animals for our selfish ends. Getting the government to pass stem laws to ban circuses from using animals is one way of helping the cause of these voiceless animals. The most effective way to put an end to this is to stop supporting these circuses by boycotting them when they come into your city. So do your bit, save these animals.