PETA protests Ringling Brothers Circus at Macon Centreplex
NewsCentral Staff
Story Created:
Jan 31, 2013 at 11:33 PM EDT
Story Updated:
Feb 1, 2013 at 12:49 AM EDT
The Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus at the Macon Centreplex didn't kick-off with a little controversy.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) staged a peaceful protest in front of the Macon Centreplex Thursday.
The group believes circus staff members treat their animals with "documented horrifying cruelty and subjects the animals to varying degrees of punishment." Representatives for the circus disagree and believe that the animals have been treated fairly.
"PETA is out here today just trying to educate people about what goes on behind the scenes at Ringling Brothers Circus. Elephants are carted around the country for 50 weeks out of the year in tiny box cars and trailers and they are beaten and forced to perform some very confusing, very physically challenging tricks," said PETA member Virginia Fort.
"We give the best of everything. The best food, the best hay, the freshest vegetables grown locally. We support the local economy as well as bringing the best of everything to our animals. We have a 24-hour vet on call plus a technician that travels with the show," said Catherine Carden, who travels with the circus.
The circus kicked off Thursday night and ends February third.
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