Beulah the elephant’s tragic death at the 2019 Big E has sparked outrage and renewed calls for legislation to protect wild animals from exploitation in traveling exhibits and shows. The circumstances surrounding Beulah’s death shed light on the cruel conditions that many animals are forced to endure for the sake of entertainment.
Beulah, owned by Commerford Petting Zoo, died on the third day of the Big E after being on exhibit despite suffering from a serious illness. The USDA reported that she died of septicemia, a result of a uterine infection, which is extremely painful for the animal. It was evident from the first day of the event that Beulah was unwell, yet she was still scheduled to be on display for 17 days. This blatant disregard for her well-being highlights the lack of proper care and oversight in the industry.
Commerford Petting Zoo has a history of violations of the Animal Welfare Act, with over 50 citations from the USDA. Despite these infractions, they have continued to operate and exploit animals for profit. Beulah and the other elephants at the zoo were forced to perform tricks and give rides under the threat of a bullhook, a cruel tool used to control and intimidate them. These majestic creatures were subjected to long hours of work, cramped living conditions, and constant travel, all for the amusement of spectators.
The tragic death of Beulah is not an isolated incident. There have been numerous cases of animals suffering and dying in similar circumstances at traveling exhibits and circuses. The lack of enforcement of regulations and the leniency towards businesses with repeated violations have allowed this cycle of abuse to continue unchecked.
Calls for legislation to ban the use of wild animals in traveling exhibits and shows have been growing louder. The Circus Bill, sponsored by Sen. Adam Gomez, aims to prohibit the use of elephants, big cats, primates, giraffes, and bears in such events. The bill would not affect educational zoo exhibits, ensuring that animals are only used for legitimate conservation and educational purposes.
It is essential for lawmakers to take action to protect these vulnerable animals from exploitation and abuse. More than 40 countries worldwide, 10 states, and nearly 150 localities have already passed legislation addressing the issue. Massachusetts, known for its humane values, should follow suit and pass the Circus Bill to prevent further tragedies like Beulah’s death.
As advocates for animal rights, it is our responsibility to speak out against the mistreatment of wild animals in circuses and traveling exhibits. We must ensure that Beulah’s death was not in vain and work towards creating a future where animals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Contacting your state representative to urge the House Ways and Means Committee to favorably release H. 3245 is a crucial step towards ending the archaic cruelty inflicted on these magnificent creatures. Let us honor Beulah’s memory by fighting for a world where wild animals are no longer exploited for entertainment.
