Thursday, January 31, 2008

The Circus

OK, so I'm sure this will be a controversial post, but I'm putting it out there, anyway. I've always battled with the decision as to whether or not to take Carter to the circus. We did so once....years ago when he was around 2 years old....and have never been back since. Nothing tragic happened.....but we waited for him to show a big interest in it and he has not, so we've not suggested it.

He's gone since then with family and loved it and of course, we had no objections. The only reason why I've questioned taking him again is the uncomfortable feeling I get while being there. I couldn't concentrate on the fun....could only focus on what life these animals are provided beyond getting in and out of cages to perform for us.

So, I ran across this article from one of the blogs I read and thought it was an intersting prospective. I don't agree with all of it....and it mentions zoos, which summons even more questions as to whether or not they're fair to animals. I'm not on opposed to zoos. From what I understand, the animals are treated fairly and provided an environment very much like what they would be exposed to in the wild. So, in my mind, zoos pass the test. Circuses, I'm still on the fence about.

There is a video, too, included in this article and I should warn you before you view it because it's pretty sad. The article itself is safe.

If I'm missing something in this personal debate, let me know, either in the comments section or via email. I'd love to know your opinions.

5 comments:

Shannon said...

I have the same rules as you. Zoos are educational and have professionals to care for the animals (that being said, I'm not a big fan but not because I'm opposed, just because I don't like observing animals behind glass). Circuses are cruel and we don't attend. When we visited Thailand, we visited an elephant nature park where the animals are allowed to live freely and not one where you could ride the elephants and the animals work all day and in bad conditions. I'm far from a PETA member but cruelty is never good.

starnes family said...

Good points. I, too, am far from PETA rules, but do believe there is a certain amount of cruelty to "training" animals to perform and keeping them in cages for all but their chance to do for us.

That said, it's a right of passage, it seems, by tradition standards, for children. I just couldn't get past the wondering of what life they're provided.

Hoping I haven't offended anyone and I certainly won't judge those that attend the circus. Just find it intersting to hear other perspectives. Thanks for commenting!

Anonymous said...

I don't have kids...but I do have fond memories of attending the circus each year. Thank goodness the kids don't know what really goes on behind the scenes.
They really just enjoy the show and that's all...it's so much simpler for them!

Anonymous said...

I went to the circus as a child and cried. I felt so sorry for the animals! They just seemed so sad going through the motions.

Malinda said...

I also do not attend the circus and will probably never take Cason. I also will not have anything to do with a rodeo. I could not read the article you linked because I'm afraid it would haunt my thoughts.