Controversy under the big top

The circus came to P.E.I. Friday, bringing with it acrobats, clowns, and controversy. Animal rights activists decried the use of animals as performers, but circus officials insisted the animals are well cared for.

The show features elephants and bears, and Heather Irving of the SPCA said they don't belong in a circus ring.

"Their natural behaviours are not to jump through hoops of fire or to balance on a big ball. Or to sit on a little stool, if you're an elephant," she said.

"We love and care for our animals like parents love and care for their kids, with love and kindness. We're very proud of what we do and we're not ashamed of what we do whatsoever," said Charles Amaral, ringmaster and general manager of the George Carden Circus International.

He said the animals receive regular exercise and are given time to play. He also said the standards set by animal care legislation are met.

Amaral's circus ran into trouble in Newfoundland. Protesters mounted demonstrations, and the city of St. John's passed a bylaw that blocked the performance.

Amaral said the investigation was unfair, and he plans to sue the city, the St. John's SPCA and its investigator.

Legislation regarding the use of animals in circuses varies from province to province. Performances by exotic animals are banned in Nova Scotia but legal in Prince Edward Island.

Veterinarian Dr. Alice Crook said that may soon change.

"On P.E.I....the Animal Health and Safety Act doesn't specifically cover exotic animals. The Act is currently being revised and one of the important changes would be to broaden the definition of animals so it covers all animals including companion animals and exotic animals," she said.

The circus will be visiting Summerside, Charlottetown, Montague, O'Leary and Souris during its P.E.I. tour.

"There's not much family entertainment out there and the circus is a true family venue. Always has been and always will be," said Amaral.