CA Elephants Protected from Bullhooks - National Humane Education Society

Paws Up!

To California’s legislators for passing Senate Bill 1062 to protect elephants from the use of bullhooks.

Elephants are powerful beings that arouse respect and appreciation. Why do we humans feel the need to control such powerful beings for entertainment? An article from National Geographic discussed studies that gauged elephants’ responses to distressing situations and they concluded “…that they are at the very least highly aware and emotional beings…”  With that knowledge, why inflict pain and distress to these emotional creatures through the use of bullhooks? These sharp sticks are often used by circus staff in highly sensitive areas to control them.   

According to a recent news article, California’s legislators are showing their support for the humane treatment of elephants by passing Senate Bill 1062.  This bill states that anyone who uses a bullhook to train or direct an elephant’s behavior, if found guilty, may face a civil penalty and suspension or revocation of their elephant permit. Unfortunately, a similar bill was vetoed by Governor Brown last year.  Hopefully SB 1062 will be looked on more favorably by Governor Brown this time around. If passed, SB 1062 will take effect January 1, 2018.

Please download our free brochure about animals on display.

Take Action: California residents contact Governor Jerry Brown to show your support that bullhooks be banned.