I have heard that other circus' treated their animals badly and I was just waiting to see something on this circus as well. Disgusting, I have three children that will be missing out on the fun of the circus because of this!

Posted by: Barbara Lake | March 18, 2009 05:41 PM

I for one certainly hope they nail these Ringling bastards. In my opinion, there are few institutions that show a more egregious disregard for humanity and compassion than 1) the circus and 2) the fur industry. Elephants and other animal so-called performers are all intelligent, sentient beings that deserve to live freely in the wild. They ask very little of us other than to respect their natural habitats and lifestyles - and people wonder where our children learn the "might makes right" principle.

Posted by: Cat! =^-^= | March 18, 2009 06:23 PM

Eye for an eye. i know this isn't right either, but the people who can treat innocent, beautiful animals this way, should see firsthand what it feels like to be beaten, bruised, and humiliated. this is horrible. i don't understand how or why anyone would want to act this way.

Posted by: Danielle | March 18, 2009 06:50 PM

I centainly hope the so-called circus is fined so much they have to close down forever !!! There are circuses without animals & they do just fine. Lets make them all that way !

Posted by: Alan Serlin | March 18, 2009 08:03 PM

Feld had to admit handlers use those bullhooks in discreet places so as not to be seen--seems pretty guilty of cruelty to me whenever someone has to hide something...think about it!?

Posted by: Jay | March 18, 2009 08:12 PM

I am ashamed that 25 years ago I would take my kids to the Ringling Bros House of Horrors! At that time little did I know of the abuse of these beautiful animals. My kids and myself would ooh and aah over the elephants and their tricks. Now aware of this I preach to my kids to not take my grandkids to these events. I am very vocal and they get tired of my preaching. But I will continue until these animals are free to live their lives. I pray that Ringling has to pay for their actions! These animals deserve so much better!!!

Posted by: susan | March 18, 2009 09:22 PM

when will we know what the verdict is?

Posted by: Amber Falobas | March 18, 2009 10:06 PM

This is so sad, no one should go to the ringling brother circus. They abused all these beautiful elephants. :(

Posted by: roxanen | March 18, 2009 10:44 PM

Elephants used in circuses is cruel and should be stopped. It is not humane to keep an elephant chained and to force this animal to travel and perform acts that are not natural for them. Circuses need to stop using wild animals for thier greed and selfishness. poeple need to boycott circuses that use animals in thier acts.

Posted by: Julie Zserdin | March 19, 2009 12:13 AM

May jurisprudence decide in favor of elephant performers!
May justice prevail for all pachyderms!

Posted by: lynda downie | March 19, 2009 02:09 AM

I hope those criminals go to jail.

Posted by: Camila | March 19, 2009 08:56 AM

100 bloody hours straight!!? Can't even imagine. Ringling needs to be shut down for good this time!! Nobody should be supporting this circus anyway!! What more evidence do we need to tell these guys to go away AND DON"T COME BACK!!

Posted by: Carla | March 19, 2009 10:37 AM

Eye for an eye for these horrible elephants beaters! They deserve to be schackled and beaten,whipped,and tortured, kept in tiny crates and we should heve THEM perform circus tricks and laugh at them. Go to HELL Ringling Bros!!!I hope I take you there!!!

Posted by: Missy L | March 19, 2009 10:42 AM

My heart aches for these wonderful animals. I hope karma gets those involved.

Posted by: Kathleen | March 19, 2009 11:27 AM

This Ringling Court Case should be a first page story in newspapers thru out this country and headline news on the net and TV--WHY IS IT NOT??

Let's hope the Judge in this case has not been handed a wad of $$ to give big corporation the victory.

I pray for the Elephants everyday for their freedom from cruelty and chains.

Posted by: Deb | March 19, 2009 01:47 PM

I wish all the cruel employees of the circus and Feld would have to be beaten with a bull hook and chained up for hours on end and see how THEY like it!

Posted by: Rex's Mom | March 19, 2009 02:03 PM

I hope with all my heart that they is justice for the elephants. But I know that usually animal are abused and no justice is found for them but I hope the elephants get justice. PLEASE ;(

Posted by: roxanne | March 19, 2009 02:17 PM

pls may justice be done and not let these cruel cowardly bastards get away with the disgusting treatment they metered out to these elephants 'behidn closed doors' (or so they thought)..these poor elephants who are forced to perform these repetitive 'unnatural circus acts' and what do they get out of it.. nothign.. just constant travelling around and a lifetime of misery being chained up every moment/second when they're not performing.. circuses..they're as bad as the ghastly trainers who work in them..

Posted by: lisabeth | March 19, 2009 02:55 PM

What they do to poor innocent animals is disgusting they should be fucking punished!!!!

Posted by: jenny | March 19, 2009 06:48 PM

I hope this criminals not only go to jail, but recieve an equal amount of beatings or more :)

Posted by: Gina | March 19, 2009 09:56 PM

All circus shows to be animal free. Time and time again they are seen to be full of cruelty and poor animal husbandry. I never took my son to see any circus that included any animal in its show. Educate others to do this and the animal acts will dissappear

Posted by: Coral Giffin | March 20, 2009 01:33 AM

This makes me want to cry and very angry at the same time. I really hope justice is served to these idiots. I will do my best to spread the word about this abuse to anyone and everyone who is willing to listen! These are cowardly bastards and karma will one day catch up to them, i hope they suffer.

Posted by: Jenna H | March 20, 2009 06:16 AM

My prayers are with these beautiful creatures - and the ones that did not go on trail..horses, tigers, dogs...it's so sad. I'm so confused as to why it would take a judge a very long time to come up with a verdict. And why the Vet for Ringling Brothers can say that they are not being mistreated.
Say a prayer for these animals - they need all they help they can get.

Posted by: Lisa | March 20, 2009 11:27 AM

Peta your great, thank you for all you do from our hearts!

Peta member I invite you to pray with me. God created animal, sadly humans destory everything and have no respect for life.
Ask God can help all these animals being abused that he can bring relief , to free them from suffering and pain. TO take control of His creations and be thier voice and protector!!!
That He help Peta grow, multiply their funds and guide them to places and situations where their help is requiered, guiding them and opening doors in their path for VICTORY!!!
In Jesus name AMEN!!

Posted by: Ericka | March 20, 2009 12:12 PM

I have been following this case since last october when it was post-poned. my boyfriend and i have long awaited the verdict of this case to expose Feld and the people he employs in Ringling of the abuse they give to not only Ringling's beautiful elephants; but also their other animals that they use in their 'show'. Circuses like these are terrible. i have yet to find a circus that i can attend to that does not use any animals that could possibly be abused. animals are not for our entertainment.

Posted by: Nicole | March 20, 2009 05:47 PM

As a former dancer/elephant rider with ringling bros. circus...i've been shouting the abuse from the rooftops for 29 years now!!!
Kathy Meyer has done a wonderful job prosicuting this case....I pray it is enough.
Now, if anyone can help me to get into the niabi zoo for a reunion with my DYING elephant sophie, i would be ever so grateful as would all elephant researchers who would love to see sophie's reaction to me so many years later.
she was beat half to death so many times and I actually had a gun pulled on me by axel (now deceased trainer)....reba, another former ele, killed him in 1993.
peta, wwf, aspca, etc.... knows how to get in touch with me if you can be of help in this matter....sophie, age 40, is NOT going to make it much longer.
thank you and blessings.
jodey eliseo

Posted by: jodey eliseo | March 23, 2009 08:34 AM

Those BASTARDS, the rotten, greedy BASTARDS. BULLIES! How can they do that to an elephant? Like bears on bile farms in China; WHAT AUDACITY. Who the HELL do they think they are? No respect for nothing?

Posted by: Saucy | March 23, 2009 04:28 PM

Poor Animals...

They dont need or use animals to make their circus fun

Posted by: dryzt | March 25, 2009 02:52 AM

Support wonderful circuses like Cirque du Soleil that feature only human performers. I live in Tallahassee, FL, and my family really enjoys Florida State University's Flying High Circus - all volunteer student performers. They're great!

Posted by: Carolyne | April 4, 2009 10:53 AM

I'm convinced that if there weren't people out there who love animals.... we wouldn't have any at all. Thank you Peta for being our voice.
xoxox ET

Posted by: Elizabeth | April 7, 2009 02:24 PM

this ringling should be shut down right immidiately..
these are the people who are causing these innocent animals to be extinct!!!
bastards!!!!!!

Posted by: Marlene=D | May 19, 2009 09:53 PM

RINGLING BROS! YOU MAKE ME SICK

Posted by: debbie | May 20, 2009 09:24 AM

The saddest thing about this is that this kind of horrific abuse is taking place in circuses all around the world so that people can enjoy watching wild animals with broken spirits jump through hoops - this is "entertainment". I hope the maximum penalty is handed down - even then it won't be enough to truly punish them for what they have put these beautiful, sensitive and gentle creatures through.

If there was any justice Ringlings should be shut down when abuse like this (that was obviously known about and condoned by the executives for a long, long time)comes out. Thank you PETA for all your hard work on this case - my fingers are crossed for the best possible outcome.

Posted by: Lauren | May 20, 2009 09:50 AM

SICK! Just cruel! I've been to a circus (Ringling Bros) with my friend and we both love animals and they actually hit a tiger in FRONT OF people severel times a WHITE TIGER!!! We screamed several times
ANIMAL ABUSERS!!! We just hope this cruelty stops with good peoples’ effort.

Posted by: Cat!!! | May 20, 2009 11:12 AM

I agree with Danielle...eye for an eye. The abusive handlers are the epitome of the selfish natute of the human race. Humans seem to think torture and mass murder for entertainment and for food is acceptable...until it comes to other humans.

Posted by: leslie | May 20, 2009 11:14 AM

i dont go to the circus because of these reasons theses animals dont deserve the abuse and punishment that they are being given its not right

Posted by: lakera | May 20, 2009 01:42 PM

i dont go to the circus because of these reasons theses animals dont deserve the abuse and punishment that they are being given its not right

Posted by: lakera | May 20, 2009 01:54 PM

I think thats just mean. Elephants are such gentle creatures. Its ashamed to see them being treated like this. I've never been to the circus and i never will because of this.

Posted by: Raina | May 20, 2009 03:45 PM

I think whatever someone dose 2 an animal they should have it done 2 them. This is SICK. I cannot inmagine the pain and suffering theese animals go through. Just 2 do something the hate, for humans. THIS IS WORNG!!!!!!!! Thank you PETA!

Posted by: ashlyn | May 20, 2009 04:31 PM

i have never been to the ccircus and i dont think i ever will beacuse of the animals i love animals alot i cant see them doing things that they were not to do they should be free

Posted by: ignacio | May 20, 2009 06:26 PM

I couldn't agree more with everyone! I watched this story on the Today Show this morning. I was enraged! The head of Ringling Bros was showing off the elephant "sanctuary"....a place for elephants to breed, train, & retire, etc. Why not have a place where elephants can be elephants??? And why does their training device need to have a sharp hook on the end?!?! Thankfully there are people out there looking after them like the ASPCA. I found a way to support animal rescue groups even more by using a search engine called www.dogreatgood.com - they donate money to animal rescue groups every time you search on the web. We need more companies willing to do good!

Posted by: Holly | May 20, 2009 07:08 PM

these people should be treated the same way as these poor animals....PETA thank you for all that you do it is good to know there is an organisation such as your self bringing light to these issues and protecting animals

Posted by: Josie | May 20, 2009 10:48 PM

I saw a bunch of elephants forced to lie on a jagged parking lot with chains around their legs while the circus was in town in Moose Jaw, SK. I took pics but the name of the company wasn't in any of them. Once they got to drink from a hoze - what a joke. When they were in Regina I tried to protest at a circus but I couldn't find any other protesters at that one, so I'm starting a protest group. I want the group to be about saving chickens as well. The circuses don't care and we need to stand up to them - Stephen

Posted by: Stephen | May 21, 2009 10:23 AM

Are you blind? It's all LIES!

Posted by: Susan | May 21, 2009 10:31 AM

i dont care what anyone says..
animals, especially as big as elephants have more of a right to live then most humans
elephants dont hurt anybody unless they are led to do so. i just watched a video of an elephant during a show, going crazy, and then ran out into the street and was shot atleast 20 times!? well what the hell do you expect when elephants are shackled to walls for most of their days in the circus.
i can admit that i was happy for the elephant and was glad to see those people get hurt, paybacks a bitch but it would have never happened in the first place if they were never mistreated in such a way.
ringling bros can go f--- themselves!

Posted by: Matt | May 21, 2009 01:38 PM

Honestly, breaks my heart! I hope and pray, I'd do almost anything, to stop this torture! We don't need this in a circus or any where! Never liked the animals at the circus or a zoo and will not suport or waste my time going to one. I hope the court system makes this right and just!

Posted by: Wendy | May 21, 2009 02:24 PM

f**k! this is horrible!

Posted by: manu | May 21, 2009 03:45 PM

When we we know what the outcome is? I want these animals to be free. No animal deserves to be treated like that, I hope that they get caught and get put in prison for what they have done. Maybe the same should happen to them as what they have done to these animals. These animals have feelings too. They feel pain just like we do.

Posted by: Diana Salvatore | May 22, 2009 05:42 AM

i really don't understand why people are so cruel!

Posted by: Benjamin King | May 22, 2009 09:40 AM

Nobody likes to see animals abused- This will let the public know just what goes on behind the scene- I will not go to any circus that has live animals - I hope the animals gets a new home where they can live like animals should live and that is a happy life. I hope they take these animals away from this company.

Posted by: Mullins | May 22, 2009 12:22 PM

I believe that is why you hear of animals turning on their trainer- I believe the trainers abused the animals.Thats Why. Animals should not be used for entertainment and to make people rich. I hope that these animals find a new loving place where they can live like an animal should live and away from that awful place.I would never go to their show or give them one ounce of my money.It is ashame what they did to these animals- They should be ashamed. Sad!!!

Posted by: Tamra | May 22, 2009 12:36 PM

Thats just wrong what peaple do to animals

Posted by: bugboy | May 22, 2009 02:52 PM

oh my god!!! seriously what freaks would do this to any kind of animal??!! this is inhuman of any person to do to an elephant! these animals are beautiful magnificant cratures who should not be held in captivity to be beaten half to death so people of the United States can have viewing pleasure!! i am 16 years old and i am a proud vegan! i am against animal crulety and any person i dont care if your 90 years old you should be locked up for good if you think that this is ok!! elephants should be put back in the wild so they can breed and not have to fear every little thing that come near them!!elephants dont hurt anybody unless they are led to do so.the only reason you see a person hurt from an elephant attack is because that person brought it upon theirselves!!RINGLING BROS! YOU MAKE ME SICK..thank you so much PETA for all that you are doing to help stop all of these crimes against animals!!

Posted by: lyndsey channell | May 22, 2009 05:10 PM

This is so terribly wrong & sad. Why can't we just leave the elephants in Africa & Asia where they belong. But then there are the pathetic ivory & animal parts poachers. I would love for every operating circus w/animals to be shut down forever.

Posted by: Animal Lover | May 22, 2009 10:59 PM

these elephants don't belong in the circuses in the first place. maybe back in the 1920s, when people didn't understand their needs, and the fact that they're wild animals, and can often behave like wild animals.
i beleive only animals kept as pets, like dogs (who probably would enjoy being trained and performing, using humane methods), horses (who probably wouldn't mind being ridden and petted by kids, using humane methods), and other kinds of animals DOMESTICATED, who probably wouldn't mind doing cheap tricks and getting fed and petted by kids. even pigs would work, maybe, they're supposedly just as smart as dogs.
but WILD ANIMALS belong in the WILD!

Posted by: Jodi | May 23, 2009 12:52 AM

I never liked circuses, and will never. GO PETA!

Posted by: Aaron | May 23, 2009 02:18 AM

yo guys,this is seriously wrong.
who is so mean that they would innocent animals for entertainment/money?
personally,i think its cruel.why
ad yes i am the one who started
the animal kindness club,or A.K.C. and if you want to know if you go to my school,yes, that's right,i am ten years old,go to district17 .com.it wont say any thing about the club,but it will let you know were the A.K.C is and if you know any one who might be interested.please,STOP THE CRUELTY NOW!AND,LOOK AT THIS.Animals on fur farms are often killed by gassing, electrocution or poisoning or their necks are broken. These methods are not 100 percent effective, and some animals "wake up" while being skinned.

Snakes and lizards are often skinned alive because some people believe that live-flaying makes leather more supple. Ouch!

Animals on fur factory farms are fed meat byproducts that are considered unfit for human consumption.

In addition to causing the suffering and deaths of millions of animals each year, the production of wool, fur, and leather contributes to climate change, land devastation, pollution, and water contamination.
PROJECT RUNWAY's Tim Gunn exposes fashion cruelty. Watch his video and then—as Tim would say—make your cruelty-free fashion work!

IF YOU ARE AGAINST THIS, PLEASE SIGN HERE FOR ANIMAL RIGHTS
AND VISIT THESE WEB SITES .PETA.ORG, KENTUCKY FRIED CRUELTY, AND MCCRUELTY.COM. THIS IS WRONG IF YOU AGREE, CONTACT THE ANIMAL KINDNESS CLUB AT 12:10 ON FRIDAYS.AT THE MINTO ELEMENTARY MIDDLE SCHOOL.

Posted by: c&a | May 23, 2009 04:26 PM

This is sooooo unfair!I hate this shit! all those poor and defendless animals in this case elephants are treated so bad and I hope that in a future all this ends and all those who treat this animals like that should be punished the same way they treat them so they could feel all the pain or punished them with death,I*m proud that there*s still people like PETA that speaks for animals because we all know that animals can*t talk so THANK GOD there*s still people that have respect for animals, because honestly the people that treat animals like that don*t deserve to live!
And I hope all the people one day in a future could change there minds and be more concern about the animals that are in the circus,zoo or animal test because animals arenot for entertaining or experiments, they should be free on there habitat because that*s the way it should be and I just think that all this mean and terrible people that treat them like this they should first think before hurting them and think about what they*re doing because the animals are all of those inhuman a******s!

Posted by: Yolanda | May 23, 2009 08:12 PM

I was just wondering if anyone lived in PA, near Scranton. The Cole Bros. Circus is coming on the 26th and I am completely disgusted!! I have read so many horrible things on this circus and have no one to protest with me...Just wondering if anyone was going there....
jessyca

Posted by: Jessyca | May 23, 2009 11:36 PM

I could cry...
This is so obviously animal abuse I don't see why in the 21st century this hasn't already been totally taken care of and the abuse been abolished

Posted by: Melissa | May 24, 2009 09:45 AM

Anyone who can abuse any animal should suffer the same consequences!!!!! Inhuman sickos should also be locked up for good. How the hell can you beat an Elephant for 30 min???? These dumb circuses should be stopped and put to an end. Animals were not put here for our pleasures. When the hell are human beings going to wake the F up????????????????

Posted by: carla | May 24, 2009 01:05 PM

Boycott all circuses that use animals in their acts. Here in Manitoba, there is talk of banning circuses with animal acts. I hope the law makers of Manitoba follow through with it.

Posted by: pam | May 24, 2009 05:38 PM

People are mean and heartless. If they do this to animals, and animals can feel, then how would they like it if it was done to them??? Yoli will protest in Hidalgo this summer.
Tess: There are other forms of entertainment that don't cause animals pain or torture. They are brilliant creatures and attacks are all neurological. I wonder why...
Henry: An animal is a gentle docile creature and goes by nature. If you continue hurting them, you are a monster.
Jerry: Have a human circus instead.
Kevin aka SS: (wrote unspeakable tortures for the people who attend, train, and/or enjoy circuses)
Emma: To save from being redundant, the horrible people who are doing this know what they're doing and should STOP.
Kaitlyn G.& Caitlyn H.: Animal cruelty is wrong! Why don't you just hit yourself and see how it feels!
Olivia: Animals feel too, and they know. Just because they don't speak like humans, doesn't mean they don't feel. They should be treated like people.
Victoria: They are being really bad role models to kids, and are showing them to express rage to animals. People are animals too.
Alexia: Are they that depressed that they have to hurt animals????
Meriaya: Animals shouldn't be tortured for your enjoyment. They shouldn't be tortured at all. How would you like to be tortured and ridiculed???
Sylvia: Treat animals as you would like to be treated.
Oscar: Will hunt the circus down, and Esai is going with him.
Andrew: Doesn't have the words to express how he feels.
Frank: I love the circus, but hurting animals is just wrong. I will never go to a circus that hurts animals.
Daniella: It gets me really mad...knowing what they do to the elephants.
Derick: It's bad.
Daniel L.: This is why animals attack, and the people deserve it.
Tiffany: I can't say it. It's what I feel.
Willie: Bother someone who can defend themselves, not those who can't!
Cesar: Humans are animals too, so use them instead!!!! Oh, but that's cruel & unusual punishment...why???
**In conclusion, Miss De Leon's 3rd period Biology class, has spoken with every intention of our opinions being heard and followed through. Put that in your circus.

Posted by: Miss De Leon's 3rd period Biology class | May 25, 2009 12:00 PM

Protest the circus! I did last weekend in Colorado, we hardly had anyone but we got the message across. Only we can make a difference, we are their voice.

Posted by: megan | May 25, 2009 12:08 PM

Do you guys also fight for people's rights? I mean people are animals too. Just saying.

Posted by: cowlover | May 25, 2009 11:47 PM

Last year elephants walked by my son's house on their way to the circus tent. He was upset by this and wrote a song about it. I wanted to forward this song to you...but have to have an address to forward...I think.
You can hear part of the song on his site markbouchermusic.com
Sincerely, Clara Boucher

Posted by: Clara Boucher | May 27, 2009 12:40 PM

Scuze me Cowlover, I am tired of people being ignorant. Once and for all this is PETA. PEOPLE FOR THE ETHICAL TREATMENT OF ANIMALS. WHAT DON'T YOU GET??????? Go support human rights on another board please. GEEEEEEZ

Posted by: carla | May 28, 2009 02:27 PM

I am waiting to hear the final veredict on this case, I hope there will finally be justice for elephants! Tigers! and the rest of the animals. It is sad seeing some comments of pure rude people, not giving a f**k about animals. Let me tell you,I rather fight for animal rights because animals are pure and innocent souls, so they deserve to be defended. Both the abusers and the people who enjoy watching animals suffer, are just evil, sefl-centered, and a bunch of hypocrites.

FOR THOSE WHO CRITICIZE, DON'T BELIEVE THIS IS ANIMAL CRUELTY, SUPPORT THE CIRCUS, ETC....DON'T EVEN LEAVE STUPID COMMENTS! STAY IN YOUR IGNORANT AND SELFISH WORLD THINKING JUST ABOUT YOURSELVES. THERE ARE A LOT OF US WHO DO NOT JUST THINK ABOUT OURSELVES, WE CARE ABOUT OTHER LIVING CREATURES!

BAN THE USE OF ANY ANIMAL IN ENTERTAINMENT (CIRCUSES, COMMERCIALS, ETC) THIS HAS TO STOP!!!!

Posted by: Roxana | May 29, 2009 02:12 AM

Hey carla! Go, go, go support human rights! i am so tired of people like you sending others to fight for what you are lazy to do. I do not fight for human rights because of people like you! self-centered, heartless, judgemental, and just negative. You are mosre ignorant for coming to this site just to talk crap! Go fight for whatever you want and leave the rest fight for animal rights and whatever we believe in!

Don't Hate Carlita!

Posted by: Roxana | May 29, 2009 02:33 AM

I hope that the ruling in this case puts Ringling out of the animal business. They do not deserve to exhibit any animals, especially elephants.

Posted by: Kathryn Baker | May 29, 2009 07:43 AM

Scuze me Roxannia.... I support animals.. And I am not lazy. Nor do I support Humans who abuse animals. Get off my case a hole.

Posted by: carla | May 29, 2009 10:29 AM

When I was nine, I was taken to an animal circus. I had no idea what those animals went through, and the ringmaster actually handed out postcards to write to the leader of the country, supporting animal circuses. I never sent it. Now I'm so grateful that I didn't! I will NEVER attend a circus with animals again. Please keep fighting, PETA, we can see this brought to an end!

Posted by: Rachel A | May 30, 2009 03:52 PM

still no verdict?

Posted by: Bon | July 11, 2009 04:54 AM

That's just so darn cruel and terrible. I really hope those elephants never have to work period. I don't think any animal especially a large one at that would like to be confined in small areas and chained up. I'm never ever going to a circus anymore and i dont think i'm ever taking my kids either.

Posted by: Darshe | July 22, 2009 08:00 AM

I hope those who beat them get stomped by a stampede of African Elephants.

Posted by: Major James Ward III | July 22, 2009 11:51 AM

This is so sad to even look at! I am appaulled at the abuse i saw, the animals should be released back into the wild or be put in a zoo where they can recover from their troubles! I am never going to this circus again!

Posted by: Brad | July 22, 2009 11:57 AM

This is no way elephants should be living. It angers me that people take these wild animals forcing them to jump through hoops. When in reality when these animals decide they've had enough bullsh*t they revolt by natural insticts and the outcome is death. This is totally wrong, I dont understand how people can treat animals this way. These "trainers" are basically pouring gas on fire each time they bull hook and shock these elephants. You mess with elephants, your going to get whats coming.

Posted by: Kateri | July 22, 2009 12:15 PM

It´s unwatchable; I send to the Peta Undercover team a congratulation, for the excellent work they did, I hope they end in jail.

Posted by: Ilan Marcuschamer | July 22, 2009 01:59 PM

I am appalled. I cannot believe such treatment to such beautiful animals. I can't stand to watch the video. My hope is that the handlers who abuse such beautiful creatures will get exactly what they've dished out to these poor animals. I hope the verdict will be the right decision. I weep just from thinking of what these poor creatures have to endure day in day out! My heart breaks :-(

Posted by: Laura | July 22, 2009 02:07 PM

I am so disgusted, I signed the petition- I wish one of those elephants would stomp the life out of one of those abusers... I will NEVER take my son to a circus again. EVER

Posted by: Dena | July 22, 2009 02:26 PM

I am more than saddened to see how these majestic animals are treated and not at all surprised at the stance that Feld Entertainment takes regarding these matters. Typical of the company. What I don't understand is how you can blatantly watch a video like this and attempt to cover up the obvious abuse that these animals suffer. Do I have a problem with animals performing...NO...what I do take major issue with is the abuse that they suffer. Under no circumstances should these animals be allowed to remain with Feld Entertainment. Those who administered this abuse should also be brought to justice without waiting another moment. It is repulsive that these shows are marketed to families and children, yet behind the scenes its a horror movie unfolding.

Posted by: Brian | July 22, 2009 02:53 PM

This is awful how they treat these poor elephants. They don't deserve it. I have observed this myself. I love elephants and think they are very smart. The trainers ought to be whipped. Then you wonder why they go crazy sometimes and kill people. Someone hear there screams. I do not believe in abuse of animals.

Posted by: Sandie Davis | July 22, 2009 02:58 PM

People is wrong, Animals have been used since the world was created, the only thing they shoul do is : treat animals with kindness thas all

Posted by: Perry Allotta | July 22, 2009 03:42 PM

What a shame!!!! All of those trainers & owners should go through the same gruelling treatment they give those poor helpless animals!!!!! It just breaks my heart to see that...Shame on you Ringling Bros may God save your soul!!!!

Posted by: Liz | July 22, 2009 03:43 PM

This really IS the "Saddest Show on Earth". I am happy PETA got this evidence against these barbarians.This video made me cry. How could a human being treat any of Gods creatures this way.I hope the trainers are put in jail!!! I will NEVER go to any Circus again as long as I live,and I will tell everyone I know about these beatings. Just horrible!

Posted by: Barbara Morris | July 22, 2009 03:45 PM

To see these gentle giants abused like that is incredible.Those trainers should be shackeled and beaten the same way. until this stoppes I will let as many people know just how cruel ringling brothers circus is.I'm waiting to see justice done.

Posted by: Mel Morrione | July 22, 2009 03:45 PM

My heart goes out to these poorly treated animals. The people doing the abusing are acting more like animals than the elephants themselves. The circus is trash.

Posted by: Jackie Olivelli | July 22, 2009 03:50 PM

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus must be closed for good. They have been so cruel to animals. The employees must be fired and jailed for abusing innocent animals especially elephants. I feel bad for them. They must be rescued and put back to the wild where they were orginally from!!!

Posted by: Linda | July 22, 2009 03:51 PM

I THINK THAT THIS CIRCUS CAME TO AN END,THAT THE COURT SHOULD TAKE THEIR LICENSE JUST IMAGINE IS THIS BAD CRUELTY IS HAPPENING WITH THE ELAPHANTS,JUST IMAGINE HOW ARE THE OTHER ANIMALS ARE BEEN BEATEN BY THEM,I MY SELF WENT TO THIS CIRCUS 3 YEARS AGO WHEN THEY CAME TO ANAHAIN CA.AND THEY WERE EVEN BEATEN THE ELEPHANTS IN FRONT OF USE AND I MY SELF ASK THE PERSON WHY HE WAS HITTEN THE ELEPHANTS AND HE SED I HAVE NO COMMENTS.AND THE PEOPLE THERE ALL JUST LEFT BECAUSE OF THAT DUME ANSWER.I HOPE THAT THERE LICENSE GET TAKEN AWAY FOR EVER.ANY WAYS IT IS AN EXPENSIVE CIRCUS,BUT I DINDT THINK THEY WOULD TREAT THERE OWN ANIMALS LIKE THIS NO WONDER THE ELEPHANTS DO WHT THERE ASK TO DO AT SOON THEY SEE THAT DOME STICK IN FRONT OF THERE FACE,BECAUSE THEY KNOW THERE GOING TO BE HIT IF THEY DONT OVEY

Posted by: RACHEL | July 22, 2009 03:59 PM

I can only hope that justice is served. Then I can only hope that the handlers that treated these animals with abuse are beaten with the same bullhooks, put in deep water and allowed to nearly drown over and over...so they can feel repeatedly the pain and suffering of a drowning animal. I have no care for people that do this to animals and wish them all the pain and suffering in return. Huh...listen to them now beg for forgivness.

Posted by: Jane | July 22, 2009 04:04 PM

This is aweful, I couldn't watch more than 5 seconds of the video. I just got off the phone leaving a message for corporate relations; this is how upset I was with this. Furious!

Posted by: Lisa Boyce | July 22, 2009 04:08 PM

I always thought that Ringling Bros. treated their animals well. This is so DISGUSTING!! I have no more respect for them at all. These poor animals should be taken away and put in a sanctuary to live out their days in peace. I cannot even begin to imagine the suffering. I cried as I watched these videos. My heart is broken. No more circus for me.

Posted by: Rosalind Willett | July 22, 2009 04:19 PM

This is why these beautiful animals go on rampages and kill to get away, they are tired of the beatings can any one blame them, I hope these people get what is comming to them

Posted by: Katherine Hughes | July 22, 2009 04:29 PM

Hope those sick bastards actually realise what's wrong with their own lives, otherwise they'll continue to do this sort of thing. Who knows what they do to others or even children.. it's really got to make you wonder.

Posted by: Aussie | July 22, 2009 04:42 PM

I envision a day when the ANIMALS are in the audience and all of these "handlers" and associates are the ones getting "bullhooked" - "whipped" - "stunned" etc. in the cage, while the ANIMALS applaud. Rotten, no go bast**ds! Anyone that goes to a circus featuring animals should never have a good night's rest ever again! The best way to STOP this is to NOT buy tickets. If no one shows up when they are in town, they will soon go under. No audience, no capital, no circus!!! May the court case be decided in favor of the animals and may the owners / handlers et al be FORCED to provide an "approved" relocation of ALL of the animals to quiet, respectful sanctuaries.

Posted by: Allan Prescott | July 22, 2009 05:29 PM

it never seizes to amaze me how cruel people are all I can say is that I hope the elephants win and PETA keep up a great job you guys been doing

Posted by: mike | July 22, 2009 06:05 PM

Thank you so much for the coverage on beating the elephants. I am so mad and upset, what else is this circus doing to the other animals. Its time to shut them down. This has been going on too long. The people who were shown beating the elepahnts and any other animals should have a minimum of 5 years no parole starting today and anyone who had knowledge of this happening. I hope the verdict is heavy on them and the fine in in the hundreds of millions. Like I said time to shut the circus down, it is 2009 and people are still beating animals in public areanas and getting away with it. Time to stop.

Sincerely,
Mcihelle

Posted by: Michelle | July 22, 2009 06:24 PM

These people, including this Feld, ought to be thrown in jail and the key thrown away. Taking peoples' money for this and calling it entertainment.
I am going to write, too, and tell them I am going to tell everyone that I know, because a bad testimonial works like bad advertising, and the place to hit these crooks is in their wallets. And malicious crooks they are.

Posted by: Debbie | July 22, 2009 06:43 PM

Can someone post a phone number for Ringling?

I want to call them and tell them I and anyone I know won't be going to their circuses.

We have to affect them in their wallets, because they have no souls.

Posted by: DP | July 22, 2009 06:55 PM

I'm pretty disappointed that my parents took me to a circus of cruelty about 13 years ago. And I remember I watched it and was soo excited.Now I am really disgusted!!!Thank god that they are taking this case very seriously!Everyone who is involved in beating these animals should be put to jail!Damn them all for putting these poor beautiful animals in danger and hurting them when its never even needed.Thanks PETA for keeping posted.

Posted by: Jessy Who? | July 22, 2009 06:59 PM

I am horrified. It makes me sick to think of any living creature being tortured. I see these poor bunnies with their ears and mouth all shriveled up, it makes me cringe. I hate to even see it, it really makes me cry. If these big companies could personally see these horrid acts being performed on the animals they loved, their minds would change. I hate to imagine what is going on with those poor babies in the circus. You have only one life, and for some it is unimaginable how it is spent. I pray that this organization is closed down for good, and that this is a lesson learned to all.

Posted by: Jackie | July 22, 2009 08:02 PM

When watching this disgraceful display I noticed the look of pleasure on the face of one of the trainers just after he took a second blow to Tonka. He did it just for the hell of it. I will never support a circus with animals in it. Take those mongrels out and beat them till their skin peels off. Please everyone. Support The Elephants ans stop animal cruelty.

Posted by: Marilyn | July 22, 2009 09:30 PM

Anyone who believes that abuse of these creatures is both a disgusting atrocity and an unethical outrage needs to take action. Write, call, e-mail Feld and tell them of your feelings - I am. Be certain Feld understands the negative financial implications of a massive boycott of their horror shows. Let us earnestly hope that the trial judge finds for the elephants, and that Ringling et.al. are penalized severely.

Posted by: Annie | July 22, 2009 10:06 PM

No one will miss out on the "fun" of a circus becasue their IS NO FUN IN A CIRCUS WHEN IT INCLUDES ANIMALS.

Posted by: Natasha Miller | July 22, 2009 10:13 PM

I am so disappointed to see this action, to do this to an animal is not acceptable, Ringlings brothers should be ashamed of themselves. and should be closed down, for ever. i myself would never go to this kind of show.

Posted by: BONNIE | July 22, 2009 10:54 PM

It just breaks my heart to see these wonderful and amazing creatures be subjected to such horrendous conditions and treatment. I have always adamentlly apposed any and all circuses' ever since I was a young girl and my parents took me to a circus because of the inhuman treatment they recieve. Even at a young age I was able to see and understand what the trainers were doing to the elephants and other animals in order for them to do what they wanted. And this is supposed to be entertaining? You have to ask yourself what are we really teaching our kids when we take them to the circus where things like this occur. Animals are meant to be adored not abused merely for our entertainment. And they wonder why so many retalliate! I think the court should order the individuals involved in the abuse be subject to the same conditions and treatment they enforced on the elephants and other animals.

Posted by: Leslie | July 23, 2009 12:20 AM

Circuses are not entertaining anyway. I hope it is outlawed for animals to be used in circuses and they all go to sanctuaries. I will write Obama. He has a heart. Spread the word that circuses aren't worth going to and try your best to put them ALL out of business!

Posted by: Sandra | July 23, 2009 12:24 AM

If ever I saw such abuse take place... I WOULD DO THE SAME DO THE ABUSER /s, and let the animal /s loose; PLUS TELL EVERYONE OF THIS ACT. After this don't EVER EXCEPT ME OR MY FAMILY TO EVER ATTEND ANY CIRCUS! You couldn't give us free tickets, or passes.

Posted by: Sandra | July 23, 2009 12:37 AM

Hopefully one or more of the elephants will turn on their handlers...... if this 'circus' is allowed to continue.

Posted by: harry baxter | July 23, 2009 05:00 AM

It brought tears to my eyes watching the recent video, seeing the despair and sadness in the elephants eyes while they were abused and tortured, how can the brutes get away with it for soo long???? its criminal, i soo hope Peta win and are able to rescue these animals, fingers crossed. Watching the faces of the abusers while they hurt these beautifull animals,its horrific, I think the undercover invresigators whom filmed this do a very harrowing hard job its takes guts to do something like that,and if it wasnt for them we wouldnt now what go's on. Im from the UK and would give my right arm to go there and rescue these poor animals, not just the elephants but the tiger's too and the other animals, when you watch the video and the animals are being abused you see other circus workers walking by, could you?????
Please PETA rescue these animals.

Posted by: Lisa Atkinson | July 23, 2009 07:26 AM

We need to do something about this. Why treat an animal bad if they are the one's making them money. They should be cherished. Poor Elephants. My prayers and thoughts are with you. I hope these animals can get freed into a sanctuary. They deserve it.

Posted by: Janeth | July 23, 2009 11:34 AM

SHUT THESE BASTARDS DOWN THIS VIDEO JUST PI**ED ME OFF! THIS IS ACTUALLY GOING ON.

Posted by: Ivan Pagan | July 23, 2009 11:55 AM

I always knew the circus was a miserable place for animals, but actually seeing these beautiful - endangered - animals being beaten brings tears to my eyes.

We need to raise our voices and spread the word to END ANIMAL CIRCUSES. This is disgusting and unnecessary cruelty! You can see the fear and pain in the elephants eyes, and it is up to us to give voice for these feeling and defenseless creatures.

Thank you PETA for the action you are taking. Now it is up to us to take local action.

Posted by: Sylvie Naude | July 23, 2009 12:27 PM

The videos depict circus trainers standing there in front of the mightly gentle giants, about to perform. For no apparent reason, they turn and begin striking the elephant in the face, side of the head, neck, etc. If someone were to do that to me over and over and I were that size- you'd better believe I would evetually trample my so called trainer to death.But no! When that happens and the elephants have had enough, we must destroy them as well. I have never in my life attended a circus and I never will. If alln the "kiddies" new how cruel the animals were treated, they would not attend them either.

Posted by: Suzie Dicks | July 23, 2009 12:58 PM

these handlrs are criminals and cowards and probably abuser of women and children if truth be known. They should be tried in court and forbidden to ever work with animals again. may someday somebody will treat them like they have treated these defensless animals.

Posted by: pam | July 23, 2009 01:28 PM

these handlrs are criminals and cowards and probably abuser of women and children if truth be known. They should be tried in court and forbidden to ever work with animals again. may someday somebody will treat them like they have treated these defensless animals.

Posted by: pam | July 23, 2009 01:28 PM

These animals belong in the jungle...they should NOT be trained to perform in hte name of "entertainment". If Ringling does not get a GUILTY verdict then there is NO justice!!!!

Posted by: Catt | July 23, 2009 01:29 PM

I hope the elephants and tigers eat them alive.I also hope the circus goes bankruped.this is uncalled for to abuse the animals.I wish some one would tie them up and bet the crap out of them let them see how it feels

Posted by: angie fioire | July 23, 2009 01:53 PM

This is exactly why I don't take my kids to the circus! I will NOT help to promote this cruel and inhumane behavior towards these beautiful animals, by giving them my money! I will do whatever it takes to help PETA put an end to this!! These animals deserve to live a free, happy and healthy life! They are not on this earth for our amusement! There deserve to live side by side with us and deserve to be treated with loving care and respect!!

Posted by: Patti Kerkhoff | July 23, 2009 01:58 PM

Look, there are bad seeds of people in every walks of life (politics, churches, education, etc., etc.). If there are few bad seeds in the circus then they should be dealt with on an individual basis not persecute the entire organization. If we did that with everything that had a few bad seeds in it then everything would eventually be shut down. Give it a rest!

Posted by: Jenni | July 23, 2009 02:05 PM

Ringling Bros. should be taken out of business. All they promote is making WILD ANIMALS DO UN-NATURAL ACTS - for our entertainment. How distgusting human being are. Go watch a cirque show - where humans are the performers. Animals should be left in the wild - not trained to do stupid tricks. Anybody that supports this form of entertainment should be ashamed of themselves - as well as showing their kids that it is ok to make animals perform for us. I protested the Circus and was shocked to see all the parents, flipping me the bird and swearing at me - while their kids were in the car with them - great role models and these kids are our future - SCAREY! These people have their heads in the sand - just waiting for them to WAKE UP! What will it take for people to respect animals rights! This is not about US - as other people posted about HUMAN RIGHTS - only we can make that right. But animals are at our mercy....WAKE UP PEOPLE! Animals are innocent beautiful creatures - we should be protecting them and treating them with respect of life.

Posted by: Marchelle | July 23, 2009 02:38 PM

To much talk and wining, Please show ID Fotos and Names of them Trainers = Cowards and were the are at any given time, real Animal loving Men will do the rest, no more Animal cruelty, got it??? sorry my english, love for Animals does not know Borders

Posted by: Karl Winterscheidt | July 23, 2009 02:56 PM

i was at the show where the elephant was bleeding! it was horrible. i thought it was an accident that happened in a previous show, but now i know whay actually happened. ITS HORRIBLE AND NEEDS TO BE STOPPED

Posted by: cassi | July 23, 2009 04:54 PM

After watching the posted video on MSNBC I was furious that anyone could really be that cruel. My heart really goes out to those elephants that are being abused and all other animals in that circus that are also abused that we do not yet know about.

Posted by: Regina LeGron | July 23, 2009 07:17 PM

The human race never ceases to amaze in its enormous never ending escalation of cruelty....
towards even its own kind, BUT THAT CRUELTY TOWARDS ANIMALS is so GHASTLY, SO UNFORGIVABLE...the arrogance, self-indulgence, greed and everything else that goes along with this incomprehensible behavior! WHAT IS IT WITH (SOME OF) US???? I for one will NEVER attend such a circus, if ever ANY circus, EVER again. I once, as a child was taken to a Barnum & Baily event...little did I know what my parents were supporting. They hardly knew either. What a LIVING NIGHTMARE HORROR we unwittingly witnessed.
These poor loyal darlings of elephants, calm as anything and so well behaved despite the disgusting tortures inflicted upon them, as shown on the video, I ask WHAT IS IT WITH THESE F...... BASTARD TRAINERS ??? HOW IS IT that THEY have even been ALLOWED NEAR these precious animals??? They should be given exactly the same treatment, shown what it feels like and then either (preferably) exterminated or given life WITHOUT perole. NO ANIMAL nor any planet needs this kind of shit. Ringling Brothers of Torture and all the likes of you, be banished for evermore with never a comeback. May Karma see you rot in hell, you bastards to the fullest degree...even that's putting it mildly.

Posted by: Prish Hackman | July 23, 2009 08:50 PM

I've heard for years about the abuse of elephants in circuses and I always believed what they were saying. Now there is proof, and I just hope it's the beginning of justice for the elephants and other circus animals that have been mistreated all these years. What took so long? Where is the compassion?

Posted by: Bridget | July 23, 2009 09:40 PM

If Pita stops the abuse of these animals what will happen to these animals that are no longer in use with Ringling Brothers? It would be nice to think they would live out their days with their small herd on a farm or a reserve with donations from visitors or contributions from Peta.

Posted by: linda fratianni | July 24, 2009 07:59 AM

ELEPHANTS ARE FULL OF FEELINGS LIKE PEOPLE. THE TRAINER'S SHOULD BE BEATEN.

Posted by: JOAN HANSSLER | July 24, 2009 09:09 AM

forcing the animals to perform in the circus is really a criminal act!
Tiziana italia

Posted by: tiziana | July 24, 2009 10:51 AM

This is disgusting. Those animals deserve to beat and eat those people alive, then be allowed to live free (as free as possible) fullfilling lives.

Posted by: Samantha | July 24, 2009 11:12 AM

Darn I realized I worded that wrong. (my last post)

Those animals DO NOT deserve to be beat...but the PEOPLE DO!

Posted by: samantha | July 24, 2009 11:14 AM

Congratulations to PETA for their largescale and timely expose. I have friends and family in as far away as Scotland and South Africa who have seen it. Time to end this barbaric stuff.

Posted by: Thomas | July 24, 2009 01:16 PM

if you watch training and tradgedy you will cry to death. They shot the elephant but he got so angry he attacked everybody. I HOPE RINGLING BROS GETS CHAINED UP AND BEATEN.

Posted by: deanna | July 24, 2009 01:47 PM

I think these disgusting owners of the circuses should be put in jail for commiting such a terrible crime. How would they like it if they treated him the same way. These are beautiful creatures put on this earth to enjoy life just like any human being that is if you can call these horrible monsters "people".

Posted by: Maria Orozco | July 24, 2009 03:31 PM

Ringling Bros circus was here in Rio Rancho and I did not go to this event none of my family goes to see the circus because I have know this was going on for so many years. Still do not believe nothing has been done about the abuse to this animal. Still in the year 2009 and human beings are not still civilized.No mercy or pity for this nimals hope this is done to them who abuse them and think back on how they must feel.I sure like to see that person getting abused.I will enjoy it.

Posted by: Aracelia | July 24, 2009 03:49 PM

This is disgusting & embarrassing! I hope animal circuses become banned and illegal in this country and someday maybe around the world. This is a terrible crime being committed. Elephants are very intelligent and interesting creatures. I don't know what could possess any human being to do something like this to anyone, let alone one of natures most fascinating animals- the elephant! I will never ever go to the circus and certainly think children should be educated on the abuse happening. I'm sure people of all ages might not know the abuse that happens which is why we all need to spread the word.

Posted by: Mary | July 24, 2009 04:00 PM

This is disgusting & embarrassing! I hope animal circuses become banned and illegal in this country and someday maybe around the world. This is a terrible crime being committed. Elephants are very intelligent and interesting creatures. I don't know what could possess any human being to do something like this to anyone, let alone one of natures most fascinating animals- the elephant! I will never ever go to the circus and certainly think children should be educated on the abuse happening. I'm sure people of all ages might not know the abuse that happens which is why we all need to spread the word.

Posted by: Mary | July 24, 2009 04:01 PM

we need to teach our children this is no way to treat animals. i would never go to the circus where animals are forced to perform stupid tricks, this isn't the way they want to live...did you ever notice how sad their eyes look, pity full...all the animals that are abused not just the elephants, pigs being beaten by Hormel foods, kfc peeing on the chickens and innocent bunny rabbit have nail polish poured in their eyes by Lorelle products something i stand in the Wall-mart and tell all the ladies what Lorelle does and nobody buys their products.

Posted by: Rebecca King | July 24, 2009 04:21 PM

This is an absolutely disgusting in-humane act! For any human that is able to follow through with doing this to ANY ANIMAL or to have been witness to such actions...they are ALL so quilty and should go to prison, heavily fined and Ring. Bros. should be SHUT DOWN!!! What the hell is taking the legal system so long. Are their that many ignorant grown-ups in high commands or positions that can't shit & get off their potties!!! I'm so fed up with seeing and hearing the crap that goes on in this world of ours. Humans that have NO RESPECT for LIFE...whether it be Children, Animals, or other grown-ups. What type of parents did all these wrong doers...get raised by??? What brings this to even happen in this Time & Period on this planet! PETA THANK YOU and ALL the Other Organizations that fight to Bring Justice for ALL the ANIMAL-CREATURES that deserve a good life.
~ RKBess

Posted by: RKBess | July 24, 2009 05:46 PM

I never knew this was happening. As soon as I heard of this I started to cry. This needs to stop. This is abuse, I dont care what the company says. This is ABUSE!
Please take these animals away from them. PLEASE!

Posted by: Rosa | July 24, 2009 07:54 PM

I watched this video.It is sickening to see,especially the little blond pansy bloke. However it struck me that not many men are commenting on this its mostly women.Why is it more manly to ignore it.I dont think so .Look at all the little twits doing the beating.Id bet theyd run a mile in a real fight.

Posted by: christopher johnston | July 24, 2009 10:08 PM

Let our children know what is love!

Posted by: Jane Kong | July 24, 2009 11:38 PM

For all of YOU DUMB, DISGUSTING AND INHUMANE BASTARDS...you need to be treated just like you treat the animals.I hope that all of this comes to an end and all the animals should live out their lives happilly ever after. I have never been to a circus and as an animal lover I will never pay to go to one as long as there are animals involved. I always had in mind that the animals involved were being mistreated because of the intense training they get. So again this has to end and let the animals go. God does not like ugly and Ringling Brothers...I hope you get yours!

Posted by: roberta | July 25, 2009 05:59 AM

This stuff is sickening. How can anyone be so heartless and horrible? I've always had a funny feeling about circuses and now I never want to go to a circus like this again. Those people should be arrested immediately and the elephants should be released into the wild.

Go PETA!

Posted by: Edward Browne | July 25, 2009 08:27 AM

I am on the verge of tears reading about how inhumanely these poor circus animals are treated. Ringling needs to be shut down for good! I will never attend circuses as long as I live, and I will urge others to not attend as well. I hope these animal abusers get what they deserve! Yes, they should be poked and shackled for hours on end and see how they like it. This disgusts me! I hope the animals win in the end and are freed from this barbaric abuse. I will pray for the animals and do all I can on my part to help them!

Posted by: Natalie | July 25, 2009 05:21 PM

I hate circuses!! The elephants, tigers & all the other animals are very intelligent creatures & should live out the rest of their lives on a peaceful sanctuary, instead of living through hell day in and day out with the circus! I hope these bastards who abuse these animals get what's coming to them in the end! Keep up the good work PETA!!

Posted by: Christian | July 25, 2009 05:27 PM

I, myself, a mother of 2 children have never believed a word of this until after I went to one of the Ringling Brothers circus shows. There were people outside handing out fliers that said how they beat there animals. I just ignored it and watched the show. But after the show I went home and did my research on these people. My eyes were filled with tears watching those horrific videos. After that, I felt so bad that I actually allowed my children to go to that. I can not believe these people have not been shut down yet. It is obviously a crime that they are beating animals. Why haven't they gotten in trouble yet? I will never go to a circus show ever again or allow my children to go either. I feel bad, but I do not support any kind of animal abuse. Next time they come to my town. I will be the one protesting outside!

Posted by: Krystle | July 25, 2009 07:41 PM

Animal cruelty - its everywhere, they use hooked poles too. This happens quite often with elephants in Sri Lanka as they are ill-treated by their keepers

From the Island newspaper, Sri Lanka, 26 July 2009
Elephant attacks mahout at Dehiwala zoo

A mahout was attacked by an elephant which went berserk at the Dehiwala zoo yesterday, officials said.

The victim, who had been transferred to the zoo from the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, was admitted to the Kalubowila hospital in a critical condition.

Posted by: alfreda | July 25, 2009 07:56 PM

Is it fair to the elephants either when we don't go to the circus. I feel like were walking away from them. To witness ourselves if these animals are being taken care of instead of taking the word of other people. If were there then only then can we stand up for them. Just as we turn away from children who are abused do you ignor them or get involved.

Posted by: kathy | July 26, 2009 01:04 PM

They need to have done what they have done to they elephant and tigers this is not right why would they did a thing like this to a loving pet

Posted by: jennie | July 26, 2009 04:33 PM

This is disgusting, to see animals being treated in such a way. People who put these animals through so much abuse, should be given the same treatment; being chained for more than 24hrs, not allowed to sit, constantly abused, and so on. Only then will the abuser know the pain of the abused. Just because they're animals it doesn't mean they have no sense of physical and emotional pain. I stopped going to circuses and zoos at an early age because of this.

Posted by: Kaji Kirupanithy | July 26, 2009 05:20 PM

this the moast disgusting thing I have ever seen these people need to be put out of bussness for good im giong to pass the word around they need to be boycoted these animals do not deserve to be treated like that those people that are beating the animals need to go to jail and fined and treat them like they did the animalsit turned my stomach to see this it angers me so I love animals .

Posted by: alma daugherty | July 26, 2009 11:43 PM

These people are monsters. I cheered when the elephant attacked it's trainer. Cried when I saw it being shot to death. Putting these men in prison to rot for the rest of their lives isn't fair punishment. Treating them the way they treated these animals would be true justice.

Posted by: Deb | July 27, 2009 03:14 PM

I’m glad to know I’m not the only one against animal cruelty. How can anyone be so uncompassionate and treat animals this way? These are Gods creatures and deserve to be loved and cared for just like us. They don’t deserve to be treated this way. I’m sure that they wouldn't like a member of their family to feel that pain then why them, because they're innocent animals that can't decide or speak for themselves. Please, stop this cruelty. It kills me to see how some people are willing to go to such extremes just for extra money. I hope they get what they deserve.

Posted by: Yuri | July 28, 2009 01:20 PM

This is ridiculous already! Stop animal violence. The ignorance of abusers should be addressed in this and all countries. These creatures aren't here for humans to abuse. They respect us and in turn they deserve our respect.

Posted by: Jean | July 28, 2009 02:26 PM

Hi animals should be banned from circus why dont they do this? Just people should be in circus.From Alice

Posted by: Alice Fraser | July 28, 2009 06:40 PM

Have there been any updates as to when the trial in Washington DC will take place?

Thank you!

Posted by: sara | July 28, 2009 07:29 PM

If I was an elephant, I would kill the first trainer that hit me.

Posted by: Whitney | July 28, 2009 09:27 PM

This is so upsetting... Thank you PETA for showing the world what a shameless and disgusting organization this circus is. Please don't stop fighting until these beautiful animals are free of all harm and treated with love and respect. I think their punishment should be done with the same bullhooks they used on these animals.

Posted by: Joey Arbagey | July 29, 2009 12:14 AM

I hope that circus gets what it diserve. we can not continue observing this poor animals been treated like that. somthing has to be done. Thank you PETA for fighting for those beautiful animals that cant fight for themselves. i hope you guys dont give up on this just like i wont. my heart goe to you guys and those poor animals.

Posted by: Catalina Mendoza | July 29, 2009 12:01 PM

I hope and pray the Animals win.. i hope they can move freely in a sanctuary and feel the air of freedom..
Love for all, Pain for none!!
www.FreeAnimal.org

Posted by: Monlam | July 30, 2009 03:15 AM

Karma just can't come fast enough for the elephants and all of the other circus animals.

Posted by: C Thorpe | July 30, 2009 07:34 AM

the whole time watching this video i was hopeing that one of the elephants or tigers would attack and hopfuly put one of those f**king bastards in their place. in the future i hope to see the so called "best show on earth" get shut down forever

Posted by: Jack costello | July 30, 2009 03:28 PM

i cried when i saw the video of this cruelty. i hope and pray that this will stop,

Posted by: milky | July 30, 2009 04:14 PM

I've seen documentaries of people from Africa who take care of elephants for a living and they work with these animals in a harmonious way that never involved abusive beatings. These videos showed that these trainers and trainees are very uninformed about proper animal training and animal care.

As for the court case for Clooney Island, constitutionally, animals rights should be in place or amended so that these animals and all other abused animals get what they deserve, turned over to the federal government and released into a wildlife reserve where they can roam free and where educated veterinarians and helpers can care for these badly abused creatures. Ethically, no animal should be placed into torturous slavery for any reason, especially entertainment.

I will never again take my children to a circus and after watching parts of some of these videos with me, they don't want to go either.

A petition needs to be created and signed by thousands that supports the complete removal of all circus animals. Wild animals are just that, wild! That is where they belong.

Posted by: Nathalie Agnew | July 30, 2009 07:53 PM

it's very disheartening watching an animals soul die slowly as they're being caged up. how can we as humans allow such an evil act. how can we just take something out of its element and lock it up, on top of making money by forcing them to perform. how disgusting!!

Posted by: thomas thai | July 30, 2009 07:57 PM

I will never ever attend a Ringling Bros. show. I hate you guys! im so angry at this! somebody do something!! and help stop the cruelty of these animals that cant speak! Let us be their voice!

Posted by: Yzette | July 30, 2009 09:08 PM

IT'S A BEASTLY SHAME!!! what happens there and people pay for that... wrong planet

Posted by: marion | July 31, 2009 08:45 AM

There is NO excuse for this horrific show to continue and ALL persons that partake in the beatings of these amazing animals should be prosecuted to the nth degree. Inhumanity to animals is and should NEVER be condoned. These animals have ever right to freedom and a life free of abuse and fear. If we truly live in a civilized world, all circuses will cease to exist and ALL organizations that condone animal torture be held under scrutiny for criminal intent!

Posted by: elise | July 31, 2009 08:51 AM

shut down this show!!!!
Everybody at Ringling should have to go to jail for this.
What a bunch of sick people.
DISGUSTING!!!

Posted by: Fred Miller | July 31, 2009 09:23 AM

My goodness, people wish to say that they want to continue to go to the circus because there children enjoy it. I know the purity in the hearts of children and I promise you if they knew of these agregious acts being committed on these poor, beautiful animals, the kids would not want to go as they never want any animals to hurt. I have not went to the circus for years as I heard about this long ago but I am so very glad it is finally getting the attention it deserves and Thank you Peta for continuing to fight for our animals. I pray this circus gets closed down and penalized strongly for there actions.

Posted by: Tina Hendley | July 31, 2009 09:32 AM

These bastards that hurt these beautifull animals should be chained up and beaten with bull hooks see how they like it. It is not acceptable to have animals in Circuses and it should be banned world wide. These animals are wild and should roaming around not chained up and caged all day it's a disgrace. If the public would stop going to Circuses with animals in it then they would have to stop.

Posted by: Sonja | July 31, 2009 09:45 AM

don't let me say that they are a bunch of f...... a......e!!! i'm so happy that i never went to a circus, poor animals.
Hang in there Peta, we'll get those ba......

Posted by: nancy laganiere | July 31, 2009 09:50 AM

This type of abuse to animals should not be allowed! The People who are submitting this abuse should be prosecuted;as well as, those who are allowing it to go on!

Posted by: Nielle Pacilli | July 31, 2009 09:59 AM

The same treatment as handed out to these poor,tortured, defenceless, animals,should be inflicted on the sick bast""ds who inflict it .I,d personally bullwhip them myself , given the opportunity.What makes them think they have the right to treat animals like they do..They are evil,callous men, and should be imprisoned for animal abuse.I,d like to see all circuses who use animals, to be closed down permanently,and the animals all housed in beautiful sanctuaries, where they can enjoy the rest of their lives in peace.

Posted by: Pat Elliot | July 31, 2009 10:04 AM

This is Ringling Brother's Elephant Conservation phone number and fax. Give them a call and tell them what for!

Corporate Communications
Telephone: (703) 448-4179
Fax: (703) 448-4028

Posted by: Jesse Placencia | July 31, 2009 10:15 AM

I am SO SHOCKED AND SADDENED BY WHAT GOES ON BY THESE HANDLERS AND TRAINERS. HOW CRUEL CAN SOMEONE BE TO CONSTANTLY BULLY THESE ANIMALS? LOOK INTO THEIR EYES AND SEE THE SADNESS. POOR THINGS HOLD ONTO EACH OTHERS TAILS FOR COMFORT FOR THEMSELVES. I PRAY TO GOD THAT THE COURTS RULES IN FAVOR OF THE PETA ORGANIZATION WHO TAKE SUCH RISKS TO FIND OUT WHAT REALLY GOES ON, AND THE VIDEO IS SO SICKENING, I CRIED AND GOT PHYSICALLY ILL. THIS EARTH IS NOT MEANT TO BE LIKE THIS. I WILL NEVER GO TO A CIRCUS AND I KNOW THAT GOD WON'T LET THESE HANDLERS CONTINUE TO DO WHAT HORRIBLE TINGS THEY DO. IS IT JUST BECAUSE THESE PEOPEL ARE MENTALLY ILL? CAUSE THEY ARE!!!!!! THIS IS A TRUE FLAW WHEN YOU BULL HOOK A DEFENSELESS ANIMAL...SHOWING YOUR DOMINATION OVER THEM AND CONTROL CAN BE DONE WITHOUT THESE TERRIBLE THINGS TO THE ELEPHANTS AS WELL AS THE TIGERS AND OTHERS....THESE ARE TERRIBLE PEOPLE. IT MUST BE STOPPED....BELIEVE YOU ME....RINGLING BROTHERS CANNOT RUN FROM THE EVIDENCE OF BLOOD AND DUST AND ALL THE COVER-UPS THEY USE. THESE PEOPLE ARE VERY SICK AND CRUEL!! I DEMAND THAT IT BE STOPPED. WHO AM I? I AM AN ANIMAL LOVER AND I HAVE COMPASSION AND EMPATHY FOR THESE BEAUTIFUL CREATURES. WE ARE MEANT TO BE GUARDIANS OF THE WILDLIFE AND OUR DOMESTIC PETS. THESE ARE NOT GUARDIANS, AND I WON'T CUSS TO USE THE WORDS I FEEL THAT THEY ARE. STOP THIS TERRIBLE BEHAVIOR - STOP STOP STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Margaret Lovick | July 31, 2009 10:20 AM

I too like so many others am disgusted. I informed all my family and friends, however, it is our job as humans with voices to inform everyone that did not see the special on the news about the cruelty that exists in the circus. It is important to tell everyone you know and post it on your facebooks or myspace acounts. Some people will disagree, but it is a chance worth taking. The people that disagree are the ones we need to understand. One person can make a difference by word of mouth. If one person understands this is wrong they will teach their children and so on, until the circus is gone. I guess I was so sadened by the fact that the RB setteled outside of court for a mere $20,000. They make millions all over the world. Sorry my mistake the animals make millions. Their are circuses that we can go to that only have humans performing acrobats. If we really want to see the animals we can go to their environments to view them. Remember don't worry about what people say about your advocacy the animals need you.

Posted by: Valene Kowalchuk | July 31, 2009 10:31 AM

Hopefully the verdict rules in the elephant's favor but if not we need to keep fighting this. Hopefully years ahead we can all look back at this as we do child labor or slavery and wonder how such a barbaric and cruel institution could actually have been legal!

Posted by: Chloe | July 31, 2009 10:37 AM

I am so mad from watching these pigs treat these animals in this manner, i mean come on the elephants are not even doing anything and they are beating them just to beat them its like they get off on the power these pigs have over them, i was so hoping the elephants would crush one of them. i wonder if these men beat their families and home animals too. this entire business of training animals for this circus has to STOP and STOP NOW.

Posted by: penny armstrong | July 31, 2009 11:03 AM

I wonder if parents attending those "macabre" views fully understand what type of "educational" material they are offering to their kids!

Posted by: rossana ceruzzi | July 31, 2009 11:07 AM

Let them free!

Posted by: Megi | July 31, 2009 11:09 AM

I hope they get what they desirve,you can't blame an animal if it should attack the trainners but if they did the animal is the one to suffer the out come.each animal has it limmits how far it can be prevolked.as with any animalI think animal activist should always be presant in trainning and showing of animals to help stop the abuse and save an animals .if you can abuse an animal what would you do to your own kind?

Posted by: Bette Moquin | July 31, 2009 11:17 AM

This is SHAMEFUL. They ought to be punished just like Micahel Vick was, put in JAIL. This is a DISGRACE.

Posted by: Pat Potter | July 31, 2009 11:34 AM

I CAN'T STAND ANIMAL ABUSE!!!!
THESE RETARDS SHOULD BE LOCKED UP AND THE KEY THROWN AWAY!
BETTER YET THEY SHOULD MAKE THEM GO THROUGH EXACTLY WHAT THEY HAVE PUT THESE ANIMALS THROUGH. BEAT THEM WITH WHIPS AND PUT A CHAIN AROUND THEIR ANKLES FOR DAYS SO TIGHT THEY CAN'T TAKE A STEP. I BET THEY WOULD THINK TWICE BEFORE THEY RAISED THEIR FILTHY HAND TO ANOTHER ANIMAL! I HOPE EVERY PERSON WHO HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH THIS TRASHY ACT GETS A LIFE SCENTENCE!!!!!!

Posted by: Blake | July 31, 2009 11:41 AM

How come they have gotten away with this for so many years. Why can't they be shut down, and these animals be rescued???? I will never understand why there are such evil people in the world that get pleasure from torturing helpless animals. It breaks my heart. I want to adopt all of them!

Posted by: Gayle Perry | July 31, 2009 12:00 PM

I HOPE SOMEONE DO SOMETHING VERY SOON! ANIMAL'S SHOULD HAVE RIGHTS TOO! IT'S OUR FAULT TOO BEACUSE BY PAYING AND GOING TO THE CIRCUS WE ARE GIVING MONEY AND APPROVING IN CERTAIN WAY TO ANIMAL CRUELTY!

Posted by: lissette | July 31, 2009 12:32 PM

Perhaps these trainers will be re-born as an elephant in their next life time.

Posted by: Mary Sims | July 31, 2009 12:32 PM

Hopefully the verdict rulses is the elephants favor. I think it is disgusting the way the animals are being treated. How can people be so cruel. I hope that the circus is closed down and these beautiful animals can live freely in the wild.

Posted by: Carol | July 31, 2009 02:02 PM

Elephants were not put on this earth to do silly tricks for myself or anyone else. It is their excuse for Greed and Deception.
What a disgraceful and disgusting thing to do to these gentle giants.
Elephants are so sweet and loving. They don't need to be cursed at or hit with "bull hooks" for idiots to get them to do what they want to put on a show. These bull hooks are intolerable & consist of a heavy metal bar with a sharp point at the end.
Absolutely deplorable. I have been fighting this for years, and will go for them head on with all I got. This fight will NOT be over until all of these elephants/tigers etc. are free from pain and harm's way.
I ABSOLUTELY BELIEVE THAT PEOPLE SHOULD NOT SUPPORT THE RINGLING BROTHERS BARNUM & BAILEY CIRCUS.
PETA's undercover investigation of Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus in 2009 found that employees had beaten and whipped elephants and tigers dozens of times in venues across the country. Chains on legs? Tied up? For What?
This needs to stop throughout the ENTIRE WORLD. Right Now.

Posted by: Radelle | July 31, 2009 02:35 PM

Knowing that someone can actually do this and not feel the least bit bad about it is absolutely disgusting. I'll never go to this circus or any other circus. Once you realize how much the animals suffer day in and day out, you can only hope that the circus will be shut down.

Posted by: Lindsey | July 31, 2009 02:57 PM

It only takes so much pain and abuse before an elephant strikes back or worse yet, dies. People who do these heartless things to animals need to be strung up, beaten and shipped to one of those vet training hospitals so they can be experimented on and feel the pain they inflict on these helpless animals.

Elephants are very intelligent, compassionate beings. This must be stopped!!

Posted by: Doris Middleton | July 31, 2009 03:20 PM

Besides taking the animals away from Ringling Bros., the best way is to never spend a dime going to a circus or a zoo. George Carlin said that the best form of protest, is to not pay for what you're against. Although we would probably all like to see the trainers get the same treatment, loss of a paycheck is a good way to send a message.

Posted by: Lisa Waugh | July 31, 2009 04:14 PM

This is sad. I have seen many videos like this one (some worse) for years now. I would never consider going near a circus. Why do people still attend circuses? When will it stop?

As for Ringling's employees, how could you want to work in this environment? Where do you people come from and how can you sleep at night? To make a living working for a company that makes money off of animal cruelty/neglect/torture. Is it worth your minimum wage? Is that why you take it out on animals, to feel superior to something?

It's only time before one of these Ringling employees shown (pretty clearly) in these videos is taken into an alley to experience the kind of pain they deal to these innocent creatures. I'm not a violent person, but I would love to watch that happen.

Posted by: Katie Horton | July 31, 2009 04:17 PM

It's something that makes you feel that people should die. I am always against the death penalty but it's the only thought that comes to my mind when I see something like this...

Posted by: melissen | July 31, 2009 06:02 PM

I will never go to a Circus with animals. Im sick when I hear of the abuse to animals like Elephants and all others. Ringlings stop the beating know.

Posted by: Rocco | July 31, 2009 08:22 PM

I wish my sister will listen to me about they abusing their animals. They were in VA few mos ago and I didnt go see them but my sister didn't listen. I am very upset at her. I hope she will change her mind after she read this.

Posted by: Helen | July 31, 2009 09:52 PM

I hope that Ringling gets shut down and animal circus' get closed this is wrong, scaring, disgusting and just out of order, if you can't take care of an animal properly then you dont deserve to have one animals are meant to be loved not beaten to death, those Ringling bastards should be beaten themselves just to see what its like. I strongly HATE animal abuse! it is emotionally scaring what they do to these poor animals, and by god when i read this i cried because i was so disgusted.

Posted by: April Showers | July 31, 2009 10:39 PM

I walked into a well known chain store beginning with a "W" and ending in "mart". Shriners as they are called where soliciting for tickets for the circus. I felt so bold with all my feelings bottled up for the poor animals! they asked if I wanted to "treat" my then 4 year old daughter to a fun time at the circus. I responded in my and her defence asking them if they loved life? (they were seniors) they said, well...YES! then I said, "so animals don't? you dont think that the elephants and tigers and bears are to ride on unicycles, jump through hoops and be humiliated at my 4 year old daughters expence? she has more compasion (a vegetarian)for animals than you have had in your sad 80+ year old life! shame on you for standing out here and soliciting young kids into this evil world! i thin you know where to stick your circus ticket... Animals where here first and we are to respect every single one. it takes one man to step on an ant. it takes a big man to walk beside it... Lisa Willis

Posted by: Lisa | July 31, 2009 11:49 PM

They should be shackled and beat! I will never go to a Ringling Brothers Circus again nor will anyone I know. I hope they shut them down for good!!

Posted by: Sonya Dubois | August 1, 2009 12:13 AM

People like those trainers disgust me. The best and happiest animals (including humankind) are those who can freely behave as nature directs them. Captivity, and abuse, leads to disturbed behaviour. The unhappiness of the elephants in the video is evident. Praise to those who shot the footage.

Posted by: John Goss | August 1, 2009 02:53 AM

ALL MY FRIENDS think this is th worst.Those videos prove everything,so why dont u show them in ur DAMN CIRCUS. SAVE THE ELEPHANTS. The ppl who did it r bastards who dont have a life or anything better to do. WHIP THEIR A** COURT!

Posted by: Claudia | August 1, 2009 09:22 AM

I hope there is finally justice for these majestic, very intelligent animals. Anyone who goes to the circus is an IDIOT! These people perpetrating these crimes against these elephants should get the same treatment. If only it could happen...

Posted by: April | August 1, 2009 11:50 AM

It is , Sadly,......way past TIME FOR CHANGE. a better, KINDER world needs to happen NOW. All Creatures, Great and Small deserve to live in the world they were created for. Why can't greedy homo-sapiens realise this???

Posted by: Kristine | August 1, 2009 12:54 PM

When will these animal abusers be punished. Leave the elephants alone let them live their lives with their families. I would like to put these people in cages for their whole stinking lives. People that make money off of animals are the lowest form of living being.

Posted by: lucy | August 2, 2009 10:28 AM

We should organize supporters of the circus animals at every location these BASTARDS that own the cicus go and put on a massive demonstation of how we all feel. Our government has sat on its ass too long without taking any protective action for these poor creatures. If we don't act this will continue.

Posted by: Allan | August 2, 2009 11:15 AM

I am so grateful to PETA for going to great lenghts to investigate and bring these horrendous acts of abuse to our attention so we can unite to help these animals. I just hope the justice system removes them from this environment because there's no way they can be safe unless they are placed in Elephant sacutaries. Thanks PETA! That's why part of my monthly tithing goes to you!

Posted by: Raven | August 2, 2009 06:30 PM

Make a better world! A world with ANIMAL RIGHTS!

Posted by: Raquel | August 2, 2009 10:34 PM

As I dry my eyes thinking of the sadness all these beautiful animals suffer at the entertainment of the beasts that abuse them day in and day out, we are suppose to be a civilized country yet we allow this abuse to happen. Let's follow the example of Bolivia and pass a law banning circuses with animals.

Posted by: Karen | August 2, 2009 11:12 PM

This is sick and terrible! I had no clue this had been going on. I had enjoyed the circus for many years and deifnetly will no longer be going! They disgust me! beating the elephants! Thats worse than terrible! I have gone to a circus before a small one but they had no animals and it was still awesome! So I feel like they can get rid of the animals and still have a awesome show. They need to fire who ever is abusing the animals and whoever is letting them be abused! Until then you can count me and my family out!

Posted by: stephanie | August 3, 2009 02:58 AM

thank you peta, when i was a kid my parents used to take me to the circus. I didnt like it then and I am strongly opposed to it now. Its no place for animals...lets all work together and stop it. Dont go to the Circus, just dont go.

Posted by: nina | August 3, 2009 07:31 AM

any trainer that wants to beat a animal should be taken to a dark ally and beaten to death...

Posted by: Chris Stuart | August 4, 2009 09:47 AM

How can we let this happen? This is absolutely wrong! I will never go to a circus again!

Posted by: melanie | August 4, 2009 10:38 AM

I CRIED WHEN I SAW THESE VIDEOS AND FORWARDED THEM TO EVERYONE I KNOW! NOW WHENEVER I GO ANYWHERE THAT HAS AN ANIMAL ACT, IT SADDENS ME TO KNOW THEY ARE OUT OF THEIR NATURAL ELEMENTS AND THAT IS JUST PLAIN SAD!!!! THANK YOU FOR MAKING US ALL AWARE!!

Posted by: LEA | August 5, 2009 08:34 PM

ringling, and all animal circuses, need to be shut down. no animal deserves to be abused and foreced to entertain humans. it is sick and wrong.

Posted by: mush | August 6, 2009 11:52 AM

Keep up the good work PETA. Scum like this have to be eradicated and the only way to do that is to hurt them financially. These "trainers" all look like parolees and they would have to be incredibly violent to hurt an innocent animal. No wonder elephants snap and finally kill.

I understand there is a possible court order upcoming to have 11 elephants removed from them and placed in sancturary? Whichever judge orders this will be forever hero.

Posted by: Susan | August 7, 2009 05:33 AM

This is simply beyond words how these poor animals are treated. Look at those eyes, they are so sad, spirits broken, gone mad. These brutal handlers are rotten to the core and deserve similar treatment in prison when they are charged. Can hardly wait to see the day these beautiful beasts are walking free in open air at the Sanctuary soon! So be it, so it is done! AMEN!

Posted by: S Morris | August 8, 2009 12:19 AM

I dont agree with a lot of PETA views. However this saddens me by far. They are beautiful animals. They dont need to be treated like that. PETA.. ME,MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS WILL NEVER GO TO ANY CIRCUS. Thank You and may the elephants win over them basterds. They need to be whipped.

Posted by: Jeff | August 8, 2009 12:55 AM

This is just terrible.. to treat animals like this.... just plain disgusting, these basterds need to get closed down.. make them pay punish them in anyway.. make em feel how it feels to get bullhooks. Keep at it PETA

Posted by: Flexy | August 8, 2009 02:05 AM

this should be judged!!it's awful-animals are not slaves!!!!don't allow yourself to be half of this sin,ban that show!because everything we support makes us be the one who does it,who helps to do it.that's why we should fight for the rights of the animals!to stop this cruelty!!because it's not natural to hurt somebody,it's amoral!Thank you Peta for the job u do!!!And thanks to people who are supporting Peta! “We all die. The goal isn't to live forever, the goal is to create something that will.”
God bless you, all )

Posted by: Elena | August 9, 2009 10:14 AM

It is embarassing and discusting to think that people would abuse beautiful kind animals that way. God gave them to us as a gift, not to be beaten, I wonder how right the trainers would think it is if the tables were turned and THEY were the ones getting the beatings and being chained up for hours on end. People, Please, we have got to put an end to this abuse . These poor animals are depending on us.

Posted by: Pam | August 11, 2009 07:04 AM

The morons who took these amazing elephants from the natural habitat deserve nothing but hurt, pain, lonliness, and utter discomfort. The agony they caused the elephants is dispicible and crude. Chained up for hours and hours, in complete horror and fear of being beaten to death, must be the wost feeling ever. Those imbeciles better suffer.

Posted by: Maddie | August 12, 2009 02:09 PM

I will never take any child to see a circus. I will inform children how bad they really are towards animals. This is just disgusting

Posted by: BetsyTidwell | August 12, 2009 06:56 PM

How on earth can human beings be so sadistically cruel. I can't stand it and it makes me just sick. But does anyone know how we can stop the cruelty? There must be a way - but HOW?

Posted by: E. B. Russell | August 12, 2009 08:59 PM

I have been to these circus's in the past but after
I saw this, I will not go again. This is a crock of crap! They should let the elephants have a bull hook and beat the trainer for a little while.....

Posted by: A. Polsley | August 13, 2009 08:51 PM

Does anyone know when the court case will be decided on? I am writing a letter to the arena in NH that will be hosting the Ringling Circus in October. I am requesting survalliance cameras be added to the area. They may go for it because the do not want the publicity attached with these horrible crimes. Please write to a location in your area, hosting the RB&BB Circus.

Posted by: d fuoco | August 14, 2009 10:56 AM

Hello, well im not all that into PETA but i saw you guys here in texas outside and told me about this website. I have seen the video images and i have to say im am DISGUSTED! My mother saw you guys but she could not belive it until she saw it with her own eyes... my father said that would be imposible since its somthing they have to consile to not lose public or $$$. To this i have to add an idea to you guess... since ppl do not belive pic. why not show them videos instead!!! By placing a van with a big screen run ALL the vidoes from former employs to the actuall atacks.... that should get the word out!!!

Posted by: pedro | August 16, 2009 02:07 AM

made suffer any living creature wich only love in its heart is,, is not any fun.
STOP FUN THAT CAUSE PAIN.AND SUFFERING!!!!

Posted by: ana vidal | August 16, 2009 02:22 AM

How absolutely disgusting. They same thing should happen to those trainers and owners of the circus. Those poor animals. I hope they will be sent to a refuge center where they will be allowed to live out the rest of their live free.

Posted by: Lisa | August 19, 2009 08:07 PM

Horrible! Ringling bros. disgusts me. I've seen other videos where the trainers actually stick the bullhook behind the elephant's ear and keep it there until the elephants get to the destination. I'm sickened by all this animal cruelty especially circuses that make a profit off of this. GO PETA!!

Posted by: Lilly | August 20, 2009 11:58 AM

This is an Monstorous Outrage!

Posted by: Leigh | August 21, 2009 09:15 AM

I took my son to a circus years ago - before I new better. He hated it and cried. Even as a child he recognized what they were doing to the animals was wrong!

Posted by: Penny | August 21, 2009 10:28 AM

WHEN ARE THE PEOPLE WITH THE DAMN PWER TO STOP THIS CRAP GOING TO STOP THIS CRAP~thses wonderful animals suffering and making money for someone that if it were you and I we would be in PRISON< WHY IS IT OKAY for these LOWLIFE CISCUS WORKERS that have an education of ZERO to be BEATING ELEPHANTS OKAY~they are ignorant people to start, I guarantee you they have NO EDUCATION and they get to take out their STUPID factors on these animals THIS IS WRONG and someone with an EDUCATION NEEDS TO STOP THIS!!!!

Posted by: Shelly Campbell | August 21, 2009 03:48 PM

When will mankind understand that we have to RESPECT animals??! Respect them and love them, otherwise we cannot be called intelligent creatures. I hope Ringling bros. will pay for this. No, wait, they HAVE TO!

Posted by: Camy | August 22, 2009 10:24 AM

I WONDER IF THESE PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO BE BEAT WITH A BULL HOOK JUST TO MAKE PEOPLE LAUGH YOU KNOW WHAT MAKES THEM LAUGH JOKES HUMOR NOT ANIMALS BEING CHAINED TO A WALL OR BABY ELEPHANTS BEING SEPARATED FROM THEIR PARENTS THESE ANIMALS SHOULD HAVE RESPECT LIKE WE DO WE RESPECT OURSELFS AND OTHER HUMANS THEN WE SHOULD RESPECT ANIMALS

AND PEOPLE WHY CIRCUS ANIMALS TURN ON THIER TRAINERS. PEOPLE WOULD DO THE SAME THING IF WE HADTO BE BEAT WITH A BULLHOOK. SO FREE THE ELEPHANTS!!!!!!

RINGLING BROS. BE PUNISHED AND SHUTDOWN YOUR BUSINESS

Posted by: RUTH | August 22, 2009 06:32 PM

Yes! I hope that the elephants come out on top here. I hope Ringling gets shut down.

Posted by: Eddy | September 3, 2009 04:55 PM

I think holding animal’s hostage in a circus is cruel all in its own! There is such an underling lack of space that could even support any and all of these various animals (babies)! So why has the Government not done something about this already? The controllers in operations for the Ringling Brothers need to be held accountable for their cruel inhumane actions. I wonder how many critters have already died in vein over the years. I guess this could be pretty easy to answer being this circus of the Ringling Bros have been around since day one!!!! I vote that the animals be removed, and have the earned opportunity to live a safe cruel free life in a Sanctuary! I pray for these babies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Nan | September 4, 2009 05:43 PM

this is ridiulous!! how could they abuse these beautiful animals who are so intelligent and have feeling just like a human being!! i am absolutley appauled and I hope all animal circuses get closed down for good and people relize what they are really doing, lets all speak our voice and tell people! we can help and we should, all of us together can make a difference... for these and all circus bound elephants

Posted by: Sabrina | September 6, 2009 12:40 PM

I pray for the innocent creature, may God protect them,
and I wish that those stupid criminal get punish very badly.

Posted by: milou | September 10, 2009 03:09 PM

ringling bros. they are coming to denver this septepber 30th. i will like to go out the circus and make a protest, so please everybody come with me this beutifulls animals need our help!!!!

Posted by: brisa salinas | September 14, 2009 10:14 PM

Still waiting on word? for the rest of the comments, please don't think that the animal taking revenge on their abusers is justice!

When an animal in captivity kills...the elephant is deemed to be mad, then usually gunned down.

Posted by: Christine Carey | September 14, 2009 11:27 PM

No, Susan, you are a liar! Only blind liars support those Ringling Bastards for abusing poor animals. Well, let me guess...did you go to any circuses with animals in it? Did you work in any of them? Did you help those Ringling idiots abuse animals for fun? Are you really for animal abuse because we are all against it? If you answered "yes" to all the above, then you are just as sick.

Posted by: The Concerend Individual | September 17, 2009 02:13 AM

I just found this video today, as well as PETA. This just made me upset to see the anger in some of those mens eyes. You could see just by the way they handeld the situation all together that they didn't care what they were doing. To them this is just a job. I don't think they should allow such an exotic animal in to the care of heart less people. Many people I beleave go to view these fine creaturs, since they are not in are everyday life of pets, & living. I don't know much about the life of the zoo, but I know they have them, and it has to be so much better then where they are now. I think people being able to view them in a much more naturel enviorment would be better. These creatures need love, & afection, & you can see that just by looking at them. They are doing nothing but taking a beating for someone elses discusting pleasure. I don't understand if a human were to lay hands on a animal, generaly being a pet.You can go to jail for this, so how is it ok to do this to these guys. They are basically conciderd a pet, an EXOTIC PET. Trained to entertain the human race, not be beaten by them. I really hope that the ringling circus is shut down for this,as well as any other who will contribute to this bad behavior performed by any other unkindly human. Please exscuse my spelling for it may be bad, but at least I have a care in the world for such things that are going on in our world. I have also posted these videos on My space, & facebook in hopes that all the people I know will reconcider there choices in life. Thank You

Posted by: Misty | September 19, 2009 08:25 AM

OK, I know what you guys are feeling but the word pachydern
means thick skined. The reason they use the hooks are because if they didn`t, the elephants would go crazy and they would ruin the show. It is like, do slap or hit your dog if they don`t go outside like you want them to do. Ringling is doing the same thing. When they are doing the walk in the street, the elephants want to go one way but the trainers want to go another way, the elephant might run into the middle of traffic and get killed. So think of the next time you lock your dog or cat outside with no food or water, you are doing the same thing as the circus is doing.

Posted by: Ken | September 20, 2009 11:03 AM

I just went to a Ringling Bros. show tonight before I realized any of this. I never would have known if there weren't people passing out fliers telling of this cruelty. I read the pamplet and watched intently when the animals were performing. I understand that getting an animal to obey is hard especially a 5-ton one, but those animals were scared and the trainers were anything but nice. The tigers especially. If you think of what a ferocious animal that is and then you see it cowering from a whip and a prod. I am sure the animals are beaten severly when nobody is watching. I just can't stand the cruelty. I was crying watching the show. Please don't support animal circuses.

Posted by: Cody | October 8, 2009 01:41 AM

I really hope those Ringling Bastards get a beating in court and who ever touch a finger on one of those poor defenceless elephents get their asses sent to jail. And their tigers be set free to the wild. Non of the animals in circuses get let go. Bitches.

Posted by: Renae | October 10, 2009 09:02 PM

God bess these poor animals for their patients. I hope Ringling Bros staff GOES TO HELL.

Posted by: Renae | October 10, 2009 09:08 PM

I see ringling bro's elephants cry, they always have tears running down their faces. what a sad life of pure HELL they live.

Posted by: Karen Purdy | October 20, 2009 01:54 AM

I just went to their circus thinking if would be really fun.... but once i herd this i was so disappointed. The elephants looked really sad, this is defiantly animal cruelty. I noticed some of the trainers tapping there legs in the performance and constantly telling them to keep up. An other thing i noticed was the horses didn't have good footing to trot and canter on and thats bad for there hoofs. I really want to help put an end to this cruel circus.

Posted by: Andrea | October 24, 2009 09:09 PM

I am so disgusted at this abuse. I feel that the circus should be shut down and everyone involved should be locked up and face major time in jail. People on a daily basis go to jail for animal cruelty and they should be no different. Charge them and put them away. If one of those elephants were to hurt someone/trainer, they would be put to sleep, how does that work? How is that fair? They are being brutally beaten. URGH, this makes me so frustrated.

Posted by: Brandi | October 26, 2009 05:22 PM

I was online about to purchase tickets for Ringling Bros Circus and needless to say, after viewing the cruelty to these animals, I am totally repulsed. I will never again go to a circus that has animal performers. These people are forgetting that they will have to answer to Jehovah, the one who created these magnificent animals, for their abusive & cruel treatment of his creation.

Posted by: Patti Jones | October 31, 2009 06:16 PM

Absolutely unacceptable treatment of animals. I don't care how difficult the animals might be to deal with, they are only victims of human behaviour directed towards them. I have not been to a circus in many years because of this treatment of animals. The handlers should be ashamed and at the very least, treated in the same way they have treated these animals.

Posted by: Trish Brown | November 3, 2009 05:58 PM

this makes me sick the way the use these poor animals for entertainment and mistreat them on top of it. i cry thinking about it, ringling should close down!! thanks peta for the protest posters and signs, i cant wait to use them!

Posted by: Nakisha | November 3, 2009 11:23 PM