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PETA, Fair Disagree Over Treatment of Elephant

Elephant
www.peta.org

Animal rights activists say a display at the DuQuoin State Fair showcases an aging and mistreated elephant, and they want the animal retired.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Counsel Rachel Matthews says Nosey the elephant suffers from arthritis, and is kept in inhumane conditions. She says on top of that, the elephant has no contact with other elephants, leaving her lonely.
 
"Female elephants stay with their mothers for their entire lives, and their herd is made up of their mothers, their aunts, sisters, and cousins. And so she is totally alone, and is suffering in isolation."
 
But DuQuoin State Fair Manager Patrick Buchen disagrees. He says fair veterinarians and inspectors have investigated the claims, and found PETA is misinformed.
 
"I personally have walked over and watched the display. I got into the arena with the elephant, fed her, and looked into her eyes. There's no abuse there. There's a tremendous amount of respect, between animal and owner."
 
Buchen says the Fair carefully monitors animal treatment - and says its overall goal is the welfare of the animals in addition to fairgoers.

PETA and others say Nosey should be retired, not giving rides and traveling all over the country for shows.
 

Jennifer Fuller joined Capitol News Illinois in July 2023 as the organization’s broadcast director. She will oversee the launch and operations of CNI’s new broadcast division.

Contact Jennifer Fuller at jfuller@capitolnewsillinois.com
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