To the Editor:

Circus trainer Cathy Carden may be living her dream, but at least she has a choice in the matter.

The animals used by Ringling do not. Elephants used by Ringling are robbed of all they would enjoy in their native homes; family, freedom to walk many miles on fresh grass, and frequent mud baths. Bullhooks (a heavy baton with a sharp steel hook on the end) are used to get these animals to perform on cue. The big cats are kept in cramped cages the vast majority of their lives, rarely seeing the sun or breathing fresh air.

Life in the circus may be a dream come true for Ms. Carden, but for the animals used by Ringling, it’s a living nightmare. Readers can learn more at www.RinglingBeatsAnimals.com.

Sincerely, Jennifer O’Connor

PETA Foundation

501 Front St. Norfolk, VA

23510 757-622-7382, ext. 8003