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Cole Bros. Circus

Friday, September 14, 2012

POLL: Is it OK to Visit the Cole Bros. Circus?

The show is coming to Watkinsville next week, but some people are concerned about its treatment of animals.

The Cole Bros. Circus comes to Watkinsville Sept. 17-19, but not without controversy. Animal rights group PETA recently announced that the show has agreed to pay a $15,000 penalty to the USDA over violations regarding the treatment of large animals, particularly elephants. Some Oconee Patch commenters have urged residents not to attend the show. "I could never have fun knowing that the elephants I love were trained with cruel and abusive methods just to entertain me," wrote commenter Ellie. Do you agree with Ellie, or are animal rights groups getting out of hand? Let us know how you feel about the circus in the poll and comments below.

Patricia Bacon

9:08 am on Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Circuses need to done away with. The "exotic animals" need to go to sanctuaries of which there are many who will put these animals in environments appropriate for them. To keep them in zoos and circuses is cruel..comparable to prison.   more ›

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Cole Bros. Circus to Pay Federal Fine over Animal Treatment Complaints

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals says the $15,000 penalty will settle complaints to the USDA. The circus is coming to Watkinsville next week.

Cole Bros. Circus, which is coming to Watkinsville Sept. 17-19, has settled multiple complaints with the USDA over treatment of its animals, according to a news release from animal-rights group PETA. Violations settled by a $15,000 fine include failure to provide veterinary care to two underweight elephants, failure to handle an elephant in a way that minimizes risk of harm, failure to house elephants properly and poorly trained handlers. WMBF News of South Carolina reports that Cole Bros. Ringmaster Chris Connors said PETA's claims are not true. Are you concerned about Cole Bros.' treatment of animals? Do you plan to go to the circus next week? Tell us in the comments.

Kim C.

8:42 am on Friday, September 14, 2012

I refuse to go to any circus. I have better things to spend my money on.   more ›

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