THE BALLOON MAN

Circus disputes PETA allegations of animal cruelty
from:  southcoasttoday.com
By Auditi Guha
June 28, 2013
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Agriculture alleging the Kelly Miller Circus — in Acushnet tonight and Saturday — has mistreated its animals.

In a news release, PETA said it has sworn affidavits from witnesses alleging animal abuse during the circus' recent stops in New Jersey and Weatherly, Pa. Those witnesses maintain that circus handlers whipped tigers and zebras, struck a dog, tiger and baby goat on the face and tethered animals so tightly they could barely walk, the release said.

General manager of the circus Jim Royal called the allegations "nonsense" and the group "extremist."

"We encourage the public to see the animals and the care-givers for themselves, to come out and ask questions," Royal said, pointing out that the circus is sponsored in almost all of the 215 cities and towns it performs in nationwide by reputable groups like the Rotary and the Lions that would not do so without checking it out.

The Kelly Miller website also notes that the animals are well cared for by an 11-member staff, are checked by a veterinarian every 30 days and get time for play, exercise, grooming and human interaction. The Web page also states that the circus "exceeds all federal animal welfare standards set" and is regulated and frequently inspected.

Specifically, PETA submitted its complaint to the USDA for alleged violations of the Animal Welfare Act.

"Circuses use violence, fear, and pain to keep animals under control — and to punish them for not obeying," said Delcianna Winders, PETA Foundation director of captive animal law enforcement, in the release.