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News Release
October 12, 2010
Atlanta Humane Society Backs Proposed Bullhook Plan
County Commissioners Considering Ordinance that would outlaw use of cruel device to inflict pain on elephants by circus trainers
Atlanta (October 12, 2010) - The Fulton County Board of Commissioners historic upcoming vote to ban the cruel use of bullhooks on elephants by circus trainers has the full support of Atlanta Humane Society (AHS). Sponsored by Commissioner Robb Pitts, and amendment to the county’s animal control ordinance would make it illegal to train or punish elephants with bullhooks – training devices that resemble a fireplace poker – or similar devices.
“Atlanta Humane Society promotes the humane treatment of all animals, and bullhooks are not humane,” says AHS President Carl Leveridge. “We commend the Fulton County Board of Commissioners – and Commissioner Robb Pitts in particular – for raising this issue and hope that the board will send the message that Fulton County is off limits to animal abusers.”
Circus trainers use bullhooks to inflict pain on elephants in order to make the animals perform, or to punish the animals. This use of bullhooks causes unnecessary extreme pain and stress on the elephants.
About Atlanta Humane Society
Founded in 1873, the Atlanta Humane Society and Society For Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals, Inc. is the oldest private non-profit animal welfare organization in Atlanta and one of the oldest humane agencies in America. Services such as Canine Play Yard, spay/neuter, adoptions, a regional food bank program, pet facilitated therapy, animal behavior hot-line and our charitable veterinary clinic are made possible by generous contributions of time and money from the public.
Our mission is to prevent neglect, abuse, cruelty and exploitation of animals and to assure that their interests and well-being are fully, effectively and humanely protected by an aware and caring society. For more information about the Atlanta Humane Society, visit www.atlantahumane.org or call 404-875-5331.