One of america's "famous" Elephants and a major Animal Rights poster child, Nosey the Elephant was ordered to be seized from The Liebel Family on November 8, 2017 in Lawrence County, Alabama when The Liebels were merely getting their brakes fixed on their hauling truck, and Nosey became the talk of the media and internet. The devious and corrupted group, "Save Nosey Now" were overjoyed and took credit for making the seizing of Nosey be possible. PETA also celebrated, calling it a Victory. But, It was nothing but heartbreaking and devastating for The Liebels who had done nothing wrong besides being a Circus family and owned an Elephant... and this was the second family that Nosey had to loose. EVENTS BEFORE NOSEY WAS TAKEN: Nosey is a 35-year old African Bush Elephant and was part of The Liebel Family Circus (aka Great American Family Circus) since she was barely two years old after She was tragically orphaned when her herd was slaughtered for ivory in Zimbabwe in the early 80s. For years, Animal Rights Extremists have targeted the Liebel Family for two major reasons - They own an Elephant, which opposes their views of that no one should own animals. The 2nd reasoning is that They are an easy target being a small circus. Some terroristic events occurred towards The Liebels - including cat litter and sand found in their truck’s gas tank, their brakes cut twice as well as their fuel lines cut. Someone had attempted to poison Nosey as well. The Liebels recalled having to sleep around or close to Nosey because they feared Nosey would be endangered or stolen. Only Animal Rights Extremists would be responsible for this, being the only people who targeted and hated The Liebels. Animal Rights followers would also viciously bully, harass, stalk and threaten the Liebel Family, especially online or on social media. Death Threats and Threats of coming to their land and burning their home or stealing their animals were common. Things escalated more after people offered money to buy Nosey from The Liebels, including PETA (People for the “Ethical” Treatment of Animals). The Liebels refused the offers constantly, because despite how greedy PETA and Animal Rights followers believe, Nosey was their Family and The Liebels were not going to give her up. NOSEY IS TAKEN: In November of 2017 - The Liebels had broken down in Lawrence County, Alabama and were getting their brakes fixed. Multiple Animal Rights Extremists, who stalked the Liebels reported their location. They contacted and sent complaints to Lawrence County Animal Control. An Animal Control Officer, by the name of Kimberly Carpenter, came out to witness Nosey. Carpenter had NO exotic animal knowledge or credentials, especially when it came to Elephants. In her own beliefs, She thought Nosey was being neglected and She reported it before She gained a Court order from Judge Angela Terry of the Lawrence County Court to seize Nosey and the Liebel’s ponies. An unauthorized travel trailer arrived, that was made for large horses and not Elephants, came to take Nosey to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee (TES). They tried to lure Nosey with food but it did not work. Nosey, being with The Liebels for over 30 years, would never respond to complete strangers. A Rope was then strapped to Nosey’s leg and she was winched backwards into the trailer. Being uncomfortable and agitated, Nosey reportedly lashed out at one of the assistants performing the winching, injuring them to where they had to go seek medical help. It took over an hour to get Nosey until the trailer before she was hauled across state lines without a permit to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee (TES). With knowing The Liebels location and knowing they were vulnerable, This was highly believed to be a planned heist to take Nosey by PETA and other Animal Rights Extremists after their offer of $2 million was declined by The Liebels weeks before. About two weeks while Nosey was being held at TES and The Liebels were awaiting trial, It was revealed by the Sanctuary that Nosey had broken her tusk. The Liebels stated how upset they were at this, as Nosey was always careful with her tusks and highly believed Nosey had been banging her head on the steel bars of her stall at TES. Visual bruises on her head also supported this belief. Her personal veterinarian of over 10 years, Dr. Mark Wilson, DMV, stated that lots of force is needed for an elephant to break it’s tusk. He also said that she needed to be X-rayed and treated to prevent possible infection. Before The Liebel’s trial, Dr. Wilson was granted to go see Nosey at TES. When he arrived, He was not allowed to get close enough to physically examine her but did watch her behaviour. He stated that Nosey was lethargic, not mentally there and was showing signs of separation anxiety. THE CUSTODY TRIAL On December 17, 2017 - The Custody trial of Nosey began. PETA’s lawyer was ordered to the back by Judge Terry before The first witness was called and that was the Animal Control Officer, Kimberly Carpenter. She stated she has been an Animal Control Officer for Lawrence County for about 2 years. She received the call about Nosey on November 8, 2017. She admitted that Nosey did have food when she was investigating - saying the Elephant had a bale of hay and 75 pounds of sweet feed. One of her statements about Nosey’s trailer was that Nosey had no room to lay down or turn around. This just reveals how clueless she is about the transportation of Elephants. Nosey’s trailer is approved by the USDA and FWC. Elephants must be restrained and kept in a secured space. Laying down or Turning around are hazardous during transportation with such a large animal. Other claims by Carpenter included that Nosey was held in the same area as a pile of feces. The Liebels attorney at the time, Mr. Underwood asked Ms. Carpenter asked how much an elephant voids a day. He asked if she knew an elephant voids approximately every ninety minutes. He asked if horses and cattle also stand in their feces. She had no response to the questions. Mr. Underwood asked if it would be safe for a 7,000 pound elephant to be allowed to turn around or lay down in a travel trailer while it is going down the road. She testified that it would not - thus admitting she has no clue what she is claiming and has no education on elephants or even USDA requirements. Mr. Underwood asked how many times an Elephant would void in a twelve hour period. She testified that she did not know. She did not know if the elephant had been off the trailer eating before she arrived either. When asked who she spoke to about the elephant she testified that she spoke to PETA or another animal rights group and talked to an elephant handler that night. Also, through a later background check of her social media, She has been following local Animal Rights groups on Facebook. Ms. Carpenter was then asked by Underwood as to why she also seized The Liebel’s ponies. She stated they were seized for investigation before admitting the Ponies were healthy. It was agreed that The Ponies would be returned to The Liebel Family. The next witness was Shay Culvertson. She lives in Cullman, Alabama and saw the animals in Cullman on Sunday, November 5, 2017. She had a conversation with Mr. Liebel where he told her he did not have any hay at the time and she had went and purchased hay for them. Mr. Liebel told her the hay got wet and refused the hay. She made a claim that Liebel told her that he could not afford hay for Nosey - but no evidence supported this claim. Ms. Culvertson was asked if she talked to Ms. Carpenter and she testified that she did. The Court asked if she had contacted any authorities in Cullman County about the elephant and she testified that she did, but since the elephant had hay at that time they did not do anything - thus like Carpenter, admitted Nosey had food. The next witness was Dr. Lydia Young. Dr. Young, who works as a veterinarian at The Elephant Sanctuary (TES). She claimed to have worked with three thousand (3,000) elephants in Thailand - this is a pure lie as NO FACILITY in Thailand houses 3,000 Asian elephants. She stated she did volunteer work at three different zoos in Asia aslo. So the question is - What does she know about African Elephants? She testified that She has done abstracts on cold therapy wound in elephants, worked on tissues post-mortem to study viruses on baby elephants and cases on immunotherapy injections. Dr. Young testified that she was present when the elephant arrived at TES in the early morning of November 10, 2017. She claimed Nosey was alert and calm. She claims to have seen Nosey every day since her arrival. She stated Nosey had dead skin in her wrinkles and cracks, foamy white discharge in her eyes, and Her left leg was swollen and she moved like she was uncomfortable when she arrived. Again, with no experience about African Elephants - She would know that African Elephants produce a white, foamy substance in their eyes to keep their eyes lubricated in dry air, and that African Elephants produce more dead skin than Asian Elephants. Ms. Waldrep, the district attorney, first questioned about the skin condition. Dr. Young called it hyperkeratosis which is too many cells present in the skin. Dr. Young testified that the elephant frequently rests two legs at a time. She holds a leg up for up to a minute and a half. She shifts her legs due to lameness in her swollen left leg. She stated she took X-rays of Nosey. She testified that Nosey has arthritis and that the concrete floors this elephant has been exposed to has increased the progression of her disease - This is funny, because Nosey is not exposed to concrete on a daily basis unlike at TES where the barns do have concrete floors. In her opinion this elephant cannot be nursed well enough to remain healthy if she went back into a circus life. Mr. Underwood questioned Dr. Young about the Death rate at TES. She admits that They have lost six (6) elephants since May 2014. Dr. Young was asked if the elephant was winched inside the trailer for transport. She testified that she did not know. Dr. Young was asked what the elephant ate while being transported. She testified she did not know. When asked if the elephant had any historical report of aggression at TES, she testified that she did. When asked specifically if the elephant injured someone during the transport she testified that she was not aware of any incident. When asked, she confirmed that African elephants have much thicker skin than Asian elephants and produce much more dead skin. Mr. Underwood questioned whether the elephant must be restrained and she testified that it did, but she questioned how high the tether was on her leg. She testified that it could have been several feet lower. He asked if she had seen an elephant die from hyperkeratosis and she said she had not. She testified that at TES they do not put their hands on the elephants. They can take blood if necessary, but try to avoid it. - This claim proves the poor care that goes on at TES. Zoos and other facilities do take blood samples to test for TB and other illnesses and it’s a requirement. She testified that they are giving the elephant Gatorade powder and admitted to placing Nosey on sedative drugs after she arrived. When asked about whether the elephant could have a bond with the Liebels she testified that she could. The defense called Dr. Mark Wilson. Dr. Wilson is a veterinarian and started working in a zoo when he was twelve (12) years old. He does private consulting for individuals who own or maintain elephants. He also works with primates, birds and reptiles. He has worked with and seen Nosey for over 10 years. He testified that he treats the elephant “hands on”. He stated how he saw her at TES but was not allowed to touch her or examine her like he usually does. He testified that if she had a bacterial infection she would not die from it. He testified that her skin can be treated by oil, shampoo and filing down. He testified that it is part of being an African elephant in captivity. He testified that he has seen zoo elephants far worse. He testified that he works with the University of Florida which is second in the country for exotic animals. The University of California at Davis is considered the “Godfather of Exotic Animals.” He is aware of complaints by PETA. . He referenced x-rays performed at Peterson and Smith Equine Hospital which show no problem with her feet. He testified that he has seen the elephant’s trailer and that it meets U.S.D.A and Florida Game Commission standards. ” He testified that Nosey’s broken tusk at TES was not a clean break and that it required a good bit of force to do it. He testified that the elephant’s attitude is not the same. She is not “mentally there.” He testified that she does not appear to be interested in anything going on around her. He testified that elephants have individual personalities. He does not think she needs a veterinarian to take care of her every day. He testified that he did notice a draining temporal gland on the side of her broken tusk. He would have x-rayed the broken tusk but was not allowed to. He said that She could develop sepsis and needs to be monitored. He testified that she didn’t show signs of arthritis and doesn’t believe she has it. He took a video of her walking. He had previously done a walking test of her on grass, sand and asphalt, and she showed no difficulty walking. In his views, hands on care is critically important. He is in favor of an antibiotic shot to treat an infection quicker. He testified that this elephant is a working elephant and is on a high protein diet. He testified that the Defendants took her to a fruit company to weigh her several times a year. She eats Bermuda coastal hay. She does not need rich food because it can cause her diarrhea. He confirmed that Nosey has gained too much weight at TES. He was concerned that more weight would cause more pressure on her feet. Dr. Wilson testified that he is concerned that he was told the elephant was wenched into the trailer for transport to TES. He testified that it normally would excite the elephant to go onto a strange trailer. Dr. Wilson testified that he was informed they arrived there at 2:42 a.m. and that she would not come off the trailer. He testified that the elephant stands on sand and grass during the daytime and that having her tethered is better than using an electric fence. Ms. Waldrep asked about the so claimed hyperkeratosis all over the elephant’s body. He testified that it is not life-threatening and normal in African Elephants. He testified that it can be managed with mineral oil, baby oil and extra virgin olive oil. The oil loosens the skin up to exfoliate with a brush or a pumice stone. Dr. Wilson testified that this elephant gets adequate exercise. He testified that typically the restraint is on her left hind leg and right front leg when tethered and that she can lay down if she chooses. The next witness was Mr. Frank Murray. Mr. Murray testified that he has owned elephants and has had herds as big as twenty-six (26). He started working with elephants in 1967. He was the first person to breed African elephants in the United States. He has known the Defendants for over twenty-five (25) years. He has never seen them mistreat this Nosey in any way. He testified that his elephants have had dry skin. It is not a problem. He testified that the only way to treat is to physically get the skin off when needed. He uses oil and coconut husks. He testified that dry skin is a husbandry issue and will not kill an elephant. Some elephants will hand the handler their chain when they are comfortable around their handler. He testified that PETA and other Animal Rights groups attempted to take his elephants, but it never happened. He now has one (1) elephant. He used to run programs in the Los Angeles Zoo and the New Orleans Zoo. He denied that he was arrested for animal cruelty charges. It was also a Rumor by Animal Rights Groups that Mr. Murray was called off the stand and his “animal cruelty” charges were proven. This was a Lie. Murray remained on the stand until he closed. The next witness was Mr. Mickey Grimes. He testified that he saw the elephant loaded and that they put a rope placed around her back legs and someone was in front of her. It took an hour to get her on the trailer. He witnessed the elephant while the Defendants were getting their vehicle fixed. She was fed regularly and her manure was cleaned every day. She was eating hay and drinking water. The next witness was Hugo Liebel. He was shown an Inspection Report from the USDA dated November 3, 2017 where he was to correct the elephant’s skin condition by December 31, 2017. He testified that it is a constant fight on the elephant’s skin care, with her being an African Elephant. He takes care of it with recommendations from her Vet. He testified that he had enough feed and water for the elephant. He gets veterinarian care for the elephant every month. In June 2017 she was checked by the National Jewish Health. In October 2017 she was checked. He denied he has ever mistreated this animal. He testified that he would possibly not take her back on the road if returned. He testified that people are running an agenda against him. He was asked if at times he referred to this elephant as “Tiny” as opposed to “Nosey.” He stated he did. Mr. Liebel closed with saying, “I’m guilty as charged because I own an Elephant.” The Trial had lasted over 10 hours, with Judge Terry claiming she would be a decision that day but did not. It wasn’t until January 22, 2018 that she stated her verdict. Despite after both Carpenter and Dr. Young being exposed for what they knew about Nosey or elephants and Dr. Mark Wilson confirming she was healthy, as well as no proven mistreatment - Judge Terry gave the custody of Nosey to Kimberly Carpenter and Lawrence County. Ms. Carpenter stated that Nosey would remain at TES under their custody. With this, Lawrence County is paying TES to keep Nosey there which is estimated to be almost $900 a day. Are locals aware of this? After the trial, The Liebels did receive their ponies back. Hugo Liebel commented to the local newspaper how his ponies was returned and asked, If he abused animals, how come the ponies were returned but his elephant wasn’t. NOSEY IS STILL SUFFERING: Nosey still remains at TES, missing her human and horse companions. She is isolated in a small space near the Quarantine area or standing for hours in that Concrete barn stall. Not to mentioned she is drugged and doesn't want to participate in Protected contact training. Reports have also stated Nosey has falsely charged at TES staff and lunged out at them. The Diet they have her on is also forcing her to gain too much weight and adding more pressure to her feet. Her stomach is even dropping. A Recent video posted by TES revealed Nosey hobbling and swinging her back leg, the same back leg that was injured when she was winched. She is partially crippled and her health is declining from months of grief and being in poor care. LINK TO VIDEO BELOW: https://www.facebook.com/BringNoseyHome/videos/2081989945463268/UzpfSTk4NjM5OTYzODA1MjM3MjoyNjEwMTIyNzQ5MDEzMzc4/ ------------------------------------------ HELP Bring Nosey Home by sharing her story and Exposing the disgusting facility she is forced to be in.
CHECK OUT & SHARE THESE PAGES: ABOUT NOSEY TRUTH ABOUT TES TES Evidence Gallery 5-shocking-facts-about-the-elephant-sanctuary-tes.html ------ As of November 2018 - The Liebels are awaiting a 2nd Bench Trial. Always keep Nosey in your thoughts and prayers.
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Today - September 22nd - is Elephant Appreciation Day and It's time to appreciate these gentle giants by sharing some interesting facts you may not know or facts that are not shared enough in today's media. Let's see if you really know Elephants... FACT #1: Elephants have been Domesticated For Thousands of Years --- Elephants have actually been in the care of humans before we even started riding horses and about 80% of Asian Elephants in their native countries rely on humans to care for them. There is over 14,000 elephants in Asia that come from a long line of domesticated Elephants. Elephants were (and some still are) working and military animals in many parts of the world. A full-grown Bull (Male) Elephant can carry over 800 pounds with their trunks and pull loads of 8,000 pounds. They can also work in terrain inaccessible to vehicles, and guided log accurately into streams. Elephants at one time were preferred to machinery because they don't trample the forest and damage young trees. The are the prefect vehicle for selective cutting. Elephants have helped man-kind thrive for ages and are still helpful forms of transportation as well as companions. Throughout Asia, Elephants are part of both ancient history and cultures, and are extremely respected and honored. FACT #2: Elephants aren't Huge Fans of Peanuts --- It's a popular myth that an Elephant's favorite treat is peanuts. Elephants have more of a "sweet tooth" when it comes to treats. According to most caregivers of Elephants, Their top favorite treats are Watermelon, Bananas, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, and even animal crackers. The myth may have originated in the days when many circuses and zoos allowed visitors to feed the animals, and sold bags of peanuts for them to do so. FACT #3: Elephants Don't Cry Emotional Tears --- Elephants do not cry because they're sad, nor do they have tear ducts that produce emotional tears. Elephants have what is called, " vestigial tear glands" - which produce tears to lubricate the cornea and wash away any irritants that may be present. The more irritants there are, the more tears there are. African Elephants also produce a white substance from these ducts that cleans and keeps their eyes lubricated in dry air. FACT #4: Elephants prefer one tusk over another. --- Just like some animals and humans, Elephants have their own preferences with everything. In fact, Elephants that have tusks can prefer one tusk over the other - just like how humans are left-handed or right-handed. Elephants use their desired tusk to do most of the work when using their tusks. Elephants in zoological care even use their preferred tusk to carry their food around. FACT #5: Elephants Sway to shift their weight, not because they're "stressed" --- Some people may have noticed Elephants swaying or rocking when they are in one spot. To some, They're dancing and to Animal Rights Extremists, It's because they're bored or stressed. The Truth is neither is correct. Elephants sway to shift their weight when they stand in one place. Elephants walk on their toes along with a fatty cushion to help them balance and the majority of their weight is carried within their front legs. When swaying to each side, Most of it is their upper body. According to plenty of Elephant experts worldwide, Elephants may also sway when excited, about to be fed or anxiously waiting to perform a task. Stressed Elephants do not sway - If an Elephant is stressed, It will often push over things and become vocal. FACT #6: Elephants can reproduce until the age of 50 years --- Female Elephants can have babies until their about 50 years of age and They typically give birth every 2 to 4 years. Not to mention, Elephants have the longest pregnancy of all mammals - 22 months. This is one of the reasons why preserving Elephants is important. When calves are born, They are born blind and weigh over 200 pounds. Twins are also rare. Animal Rights Extremists have even bashed zoos for allowing elephants to give birth at 30-40 years of age, claiming they are too old. Elephants are actually considered middle-aged until 50 years of age. Elephants also do not go through menopause. FACT #7: Elephants are Not Afraid of Mice --- Another common myth busted. It was found that Elephants are not scared of mice or small mammals. However, Elephants do fear stinging insects such as Ants or Bees. Elephants avoid any trees or bushes with ants on or near them. Wildlife conservationists have also used this natural fear to the elephants’ advantage by placing beehives near farms in order to prevent elephants from foraging in those areas. This approach seem to be helping to minimize incidents of human-elephant conflict. FACT #8: Elephants form Bonds with other Species - including Humans --- Elephants are known to be highly social and empathetic animals and in some cases, They have grown attached to other species socially. This is mostly seen in Captive Elephants who are raised alongside Horses, Cattle or other herd animals. Elephants have also formed bonds with Dogs. Some elephants can suffer grief and separation anxiety when separated from an animal they have grown attached to. This also goes for Humans. Elephants do bond with their caretakers or mahouts. Elephants kept alone for any reason can still function without their own kind if they still get socialization from another species - kind of like with Horses. Lone Horses are kept with another herd animals - such as a Goat or Cow. This has also worked with Elephants. Wild Elephants have even formed odd relationships with other species - like Rhinos and Zebras. Conclusion? They're amazing animals that deserve saving and preserving. Continue to support Zoological care of these majestic animals and If you can, Donate to Conservation funds for Elephants. HAPPY ELEPHANT APPRECIATION DAY!
The Topic of riding Elephants has been quite controversial within the internet and media these days and endorsed by Animal Rights Extremist groups. Here, We will look at both facts and myths on Elephant riding and how Science supports the facts. To start off, Elephants have in fact been ridden by man for thousands of years, before we even started riding Horses. Technically, Elephants are Domesticated in many parts of the world and are also key working animals as they can easily pull up 2,500 pounds and lift about 800 pounds alone with their trunks. They are beneficial for both our environment and society, which is why it is important to preserve these animals for the future. There are many propaganda filled organizations that post on the media or the internet that riding elephants is cruel and supports abuse of elephants, repeating the same claims and myths. Their claims are not supported by science or even zoologists worldwide. ------------------------------------ One of the Biggest MYTHS that is claimed is "To be ridden, Elephants are taken from the wild or separated from their mothers, and then beaten into submission to break their spirit, which is called 'Phajaan'" - First of all, No accredited or official facility that has elephants and does elephant rides beats or harms their elephants nor steal wild elephants. Also, a Phajaan ritual is not about "breaking the spirit" of an elephant. As so written by Lalipa Nilubol, "Phajaan is essentially a ritual that, by some mysterious force no less than a miracle, succeeds in discouraging the mother elephant from being overly protective and possessive of her calf. Spells and enchantments are spoken to both mother and calf. During the rituals — that usually involve holy water, turmeric, and wood — the mother miraculously walks away from her calf, and ceases the tendency to always be reaching for her calf. It is also an ancient belief that, if the spirits and guardians protecting the soul of the calf do not approve, it would be impossible to bring the calf to live alongside humans. Thus, the Phajaan ritual also serves to seek approval from the higher forces that preside over the elephants. This symbolic separation is very important for elephants who live in domesticity, because a mother who is constantly distracted by her calf can become an extremely dangerous elephant. Without the success of the Phajaan, it is believed, the calf cannot become an independent elephant; the term ‘independent’, in this context, refers to the calf’s ability to learn from mahouts and human carers, without always having to need the mother close by." The Photos or Videos of Baby Elephants being beaten or placed into a chamber is not the REAL Phajaan as Animal Rights Extremists display. It is obviously an inhumane practice that those people harming the elephants are doing and PETA has taken advantage of filming it and claiming it as a "Phajaan ritual". These people that are using brutality on elephants aren't even preparing the elephants to be ridden but to work, like carrying loads or being part of the logging industry, which is awful but IT IS NOT what Phajaan is. TRUE Elephant Caregivers or Mahouts do not harm their elephants or place them in any danger, as so much of their time and money is dedicated to these animals and their well being or protection. Conclusion? Elephants are NOT Beaten in order to be ridden. The Second Biggest MYTH is that Elephant backs are not made for riding or carrying heavy loads. Pictured ABOVE is a comparison of Horse, Elephant and Camel skeletal systems, all whom are common animals ridden by humans and have been ridden by man for thousands of years. As you can see, They all have similarity to their vertebrate in one way or another. Elephants in particular can actually carry over 1,000 pounds on their backs. Elephant's are not affected by 3 to 5 people on their backs at a time, and People riding them do not affect their health overall. Animal Rights extremists like to say that It causes Arthritis or leg issues. The Majority of Arthritis is from an Elephant being exposed to asphalt or concrete for long periods of time, and the majority of elephants in circuses or other elephant ride venues do not house their elephants on hard surfaces for most of their lives. In fact, Elephant rides are part of their needed exercise and simulation while being in a managed environment. In time of foot work or walking is vital to keeping an elephant physically fit and healthy. Money raised by Elephant rides also contribute to the animal's care and food expenses. It is very important for elephants to give rides in many parts of the world and banning rides is what's harmful to the animal and caregiver or facility. Riding Elephants inspires people to understand and have a much better appreciation of these animals, and It bonds a mahout with their elephant. Here's a perfect and resourceful video on The TRUTH on Riding Elephants and How it is NOT HARMFUL: So, If you love Elephants and Riding one is on your bucket list, Go for it because there is nothing wrong with riding an elephant. With thousands of years of man riding them and barely any issues, It is clear Elephants are not mistreated nor is their health harmed from people riding them. If you are still against riding elephants, You are entitled to your opinion but the FACTS are clear here, and just because you are against something doesn't mean to take the rights away from others. It is common sense - Against it? Don't support it and don't spread rumors or propaganda just because you are against it.
It was announced recently that Anna-Louise (also known as "The Dancing Elephant") had passed away after retiring from her performing days to Two Tails Ranch, a zoological facility in Florida that cares for retired elephants. As of now, Cause of Death is unknown but it has been stated that she died suddenly of an aneurysm in late June - reports say. Today we analyze Anna-Louise's life story and how she inspired the public for years. Anna-Louise was rescued as an orphaned calf in the early 80s after her herd was slaughtered for their Ivory during a brutal culling in Zimbabwe. Frank Thompson was the first to care for and work with Anna-Louise in her early years before giving her up to Terry Lou Zoo in New Jersey, where she also resided for some years, being a true animal ambassador for her species. Anna then had to be relocated to Folsom Children's Zoo in Nebraska until Tom Demry adopted her in late 1988. Anna-Louise was trained by Joanne Wilson, a experienced caretaker and trainer of Elephants. Anna-Louise remained with Tom Demry since than, and both performed together often. The two also shared one unbreakable friendship and bond for a lifetime. -- Anna-Louise had a love for music and playing around with a Tambourine, which was all included when performing. She was dubbed, "The Dancing Elephant" at many shows. Both Anna-Louise and Tom performed for a variety of Circuses - including Kelly Miller Circus and Shrine Circuses. Anna-Louise was best known for her vain and unique style of dress as well. For years, like most performing elephants - Anna-Louise has been viciously targeted by Animal Rights Extremists who spread propaganda on her treatment and true friendship with Tom. She was also a major target due to her being a lone elephant. Anna-Louise had been around other elephants while at the previous zoos she was held at but according to reports, She was uninterested in socializing with other elephants, even almost getting in a fatal fight with one other elephant in the past. She prefers the company of people and with all her years with Tom, He was all she needed. Animal rights Extremists do not believe elephants can have a bond with people - which is where they are wrong. - Anna-Louise was described as a very playful and spirited elephant. Besides performing, She did give rides to children and interacted with so many others to raise awareness of the horrible conflict and threats that her wild cousins are facing - poaching, water poisoning and habitat destruction. Anna-Louise, despite being born a tusk-less elephant, is very lucky to be loved and protected. In Spring of 2018, Anna-Louise was retired to Two Tails Ranch in Florida, due to Animal rights extremists pushing for her to be forced to be sent to some "sanctuary" and be separated from Tom. Another possibility was that she was becoming unfit to perform anymore and retirement was best. It was announced that She passed away around late June of 2018 at Two Tails Ranch, at the age of 37 years old. Anna-Louise was beloved by so many and was truly one of a kind. She will be missed dearly. Our condolences go out to Tom Demry and those who knew her very well. We will always remember you, Anna. RIP Admit it, You've been told by PETA or some other source to "Boycott" Circuses with Animals and Zoos because of the "abuse" or "exploitation" at one time or another... But, Is Boycotting these facilities actually helping ending so-called "abuse"? Is it helping the animals are doing more harm than good? Today, We will tell you the 4 BIGGEST Reasons Why you should not "Boycott" well-run Circuses or Zoos... #1. Zoos and Circuses introduce their Animal Ambassadors: Ever gotten to ride an Elephant? Feed a Giraffe? Touch an Alligator? If you've had any interaction with an animal that special, you'll know for sure that that very moment connected you and inspired you to care more for the animals that roam our planet. Animal Rights extremists claim such interactions is only for money - but in Reality, the caregivers love the faces of the people when they get to meet their animals - touch them and connect with them. It's the joy of inspiring people to love these animals and offer experiences that you cannot get from reading a book or watching Animal Planet, and PETA wants to take those chances away from people in the name of "abuse" - Nothing but pure propaganda. You cannot "force" an animal to do something it does not want to do. It's been proven by multiple college research projects that most animals do enjoy physical affection, human company and working - It provides them enrichment most of all. - Looking into the eyes of an actual animal, feeling them, interacting with them and knowing all about them inspires us to speak up for conservation and for their species - as it is their wild relatives that are the ones suffering in the wild from horrific human activity and disasters that will cause their extinction. #2. Those "Abuse" claims are actually Propaganda: You may have came across those "undercover" video footage on the internet or follow articles by PETA, The Dodo or One Green Planet, etc. - Seeing those and not questioning the background of those sources,you automatically assume the animals are abused. The TRUTH is It's all propaganda and the footage is staged or doctored. Since the 1980s, Animal rights extremists have gone "undercover" and get hired by a Circus or other animal facilities, only to film "the abuse", but what the public doesn't realize is that It is the Undercover animal rights people filming themselves,harming the animals before taking the footage back to an organization like PETA for it to be edited and for them to get paid for giving the footage to that organization. It's all a Scam artist's work. If the footage filmed was true, You would think it would be sent to the USDA. There are no background documents on the footage - which should include names, location, reported injuries and other background information. They make it appear like every animal is abused in order to learn behaviors or for someone to ride/feed them. Training ANY Animal takes Patience, Respect, Trust and Friendship. - Some footage and images posted by PETA or other animal rights groups is simply edited - such as adding certain sounds and doctoring the imagery of what something appears to be. It's Animal rights propaganda! It's another reason why these animal rights groups want you to "boycott" animal facilities - so that you never see the truth with your own eyes or from your own experiences! #3. The Animals rely on the Public (That's You) Animal Rights extremists claim "boycotting" Circuses or Zoos means you do not support the "personal greed" or "using animals for money" - and the reality is Circuses and Zoos need the money to help keep their animals healthy and happy. The majority of funds raised are used to take care of their animals - when people boycott these places they are doing more harm to the animals. When you pay to go to the Circus or a Zoo, You are paying for their animal's care and needs. With less funding, Animal acts and animal interactions become limited. Animals in circuses primarily are nothing more than workers too - so they need their pay like the human employees or performers, and that "payment" is food, water, supplies, shelter, vet care and travel care. With people boycotting these facilities, The unemployed animals will have really no where to go and have nothing to do. PETA and the Animal rights industry believe it will force a circus or zoo to give up their animals to the "sanctuaries" they help run - which are riddled with diseases, high death rates and the animals are cared for unprofessional people with an agenda. - Besides covering the animal care expenses, Going to Circuses and Zoos also contribute to Conservation and charities. Believe it or not, Circuses and Zoos exist to educate and introduce the public to their animals to inform them on conservation efforts and how to help the animals' wild relatives in their own way. For example, Nosey the Elephant raised awareness on the poaching of African Elephants for the Ivory trade, just by giving rides and allowing public interactions. Many Circuses even give to medical or animal-related charities, like the Shriner's Hospital or a local humane society. Zoos primarily also provide research benefits to help with conservation efforts worldwide! #4. Preserving endangered species for Future generations to witness and appreciate: One of the MOST IMPORTANT reasons - Modern-day Zoos and Circuses are preserving many threatened or endangered species for our future generations to witness and enjoy for as long as possible. Let's face it - Many animals are at risk of being gone forever, especially in the wild. With so many threats, It is up to our animal ambassadors in human care to raise awareness on the struggles of what their wild cousins are facing. The Animal rights industry portrays the Wild as "happy and free" - when it is the COMPLETE opposite. Poaching, pollution, starvation, habitat loss and many other threats are killing our wildlife. Animals in Human care are so lucky that they get plenty of amazing care and are protected from such threats. It is important to preserve species so that one day, Our children and grandchildren won't have to know about animals JUST from a book or movies. Hands-on experiences are the best way to learn about these animals and keep people inspired to save them, or work with them someday. - The Animal rights industry do no care about conservation and never have cared about the bond between humans and animals. In fact, with their agenda and Ideology - They are promoting EXTINCTION of both wild animals and animals in human care, including our pets and livestock! "Captivity" doesn't kill - Animal rights extremists will be one of the reasons why animals will die out in loving human care. It is TIME to realize the enemy here... We urge you to support your LOCAL Zoo and Wildlife refuge. Go to a Circus with animals and SEE for yourself how animals are treated and see how much you become inspired to love these animals even more! If there is anything you should BOYCOTT - It's PETA & the Animal rights extremism!
The "Bullhook". What exactly is it? Is it really a weapon among Elephants? Does it actually cause Elephants pain or fear? The looks of this instrument is misleading and It's Time to understand what this tool really is and it's actual purpose... WHAT IS THE "BULLHOOK" ? The "Bullhook" is ACTUALLY called, an "Ankus", "Takaw", or more modernly called "The Elephant Guide" (or just "Guide") and It is a Husbandry Tool that is used around Elephants trained in "Free Contact" - which is sharing the same space with the Elephant - for Thousands of years. The tool misleads people from its appearance most of all - It has a curved end and straight end, and is actually not completely sharp nor very dull. The tool is made to gently "grab" or grip at, pull, push, cue or simply touch the elephant at certain parts of it's body to correlate with a variety of verbal commands. The guide was not made to be a weapon against the elephant as Animal Rights Extremist groups portray it as. It is a GUIDE and serves the same purpose as a Dog's leash or a Horse's reins. It helps communicate with the animal and positively reinforce taught behaviors. DO ELEPHANTS FEAR IT? DOES IT CAUSE THEM ANY PAIN? One of the most common propaganda claims by Animal Rights Extremists is that The Guide is used to cause harm, that Elephants are taught to fear it and make the Elephant "submit" to its trainer. It is a highly misleading claim and Lie. Now, To make things clear and not "sugar coat" things, There are people out there that Misuse the Guide but The MAJORITY of Elephant caregivers do not use the guide in such a neglectful way. It's not right to label all elephant handlers as "Abusers" just because they carry a Ankus / Guide. That's like Labeling all Dog owners bad just because a few Dog owners abuse their dogs... - Anyways, The Guide is not meant to harm the Elephant. Elephants are certainly not taught to fear it, They are ACTUALLY taught to get used to their caretaker holding it and touching them with it during training. Some elephants will play with the guide and engage in games with their handler, such as a game of fetch or tug of war. No, They are not "beaten into submission". Elephants cannot become submissive. Even as babies, They know their power and intelligence. Like many know, Elephants have amazing memory and If a trainer were to cause it any harm or suffering, That elephant would not be loyal at all. The Guide is not stopping an Elephant from killing or harming their trainer, or making the elephant do things it doesn't want to do. Elephants build up respect, trust and love for their handlers. Elephants are trained through POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT - which usually involves lots of food and physical contact. Same as you with your pet dog or cat. Do you "beat" your dog to get it to sit down? Of course not! It's about building that companionship and rewarding the animal. WHAT DOES THE GUIDE DO FOR THE ELEPHANT? WHY IS IT'S USE IMPORTANT? The Guide use is very important for working with Elephants in "Free Contact" because it is a vital part of communication and an extension of a handler's arm, that allows the handler to cue the elephant what to do or where to do - Again, Same as a leash for a dog or reins for a Horse. The Guide is barely a pound in weight and is up to 24 inches in length. The ends are not razor sharp but made to "grab" at the skin of the elephant without harming it. In the US, The Guide is also REQUIRED by Law and the USDA to have when working with elephants in Free contact. The Guide is also approved by the American Veterinary Association and Elephant Managers Association. - The guide is really most important for helping with veterinary examinations. In early training, Elephants are first taught to lift their trunk, open their mouth and lift their feet one at a time, as well as lay down. These behaviors help the vet better examine the elephant most successfully - as they are able to check inside the trunk and mouth, check the elephant's feet, underside, and give the elephant proper X-rays, blood tests and other analysis. The guide is also Helpful with keeping the Elephant away from danger or getting into trouble, which is why handlers walk beside the elephant. This is in case The Elephant may wonder off, go the wrong way or may become a problem to property or a person (which is rare). In Indian or Asian cultures, The Ankus/Takaw can be useful for self-defense against anything that wishes to harm the mahout or their elephant. IF WHAT YOU CLAIM IS ALL TRUE, THEN WHY ARE THERE PEOPLE SPEAKING AGAINST IT'S USE? The People who speak against and spread propaganda on the use of the Ankus / Guide are mostly Animal Rights Extremist groups, such as PETA and those that follow the agenda of Animal Rights. They have no working experience with Elephants yet pretend to know everything about Elephant care and husbandry. Animal Rights extremist groups are multi-million dollar organizations who can easily manipulate the public with simple, edited videos or media posts - These very people are even in our legal systems which is why laws banning the Guide has occurred. These people speak against the use of the guide truly because they want people to believe them - as they enjoy media attention and fame - and want to ban circuses and zoos which will cause the end of working alongside elephants and ensure their extinction. The Animal Rights industry do not care about welfare of these animals - They only want money, attention and to ban animals and people working together as well as Ban animal companions - basically controlling what we can do in the future. Their agenda is sickening and twisted. - People who are against the use of the guide do not and will not understand the importance of communication between elephants and humans or how to properly work with elephants period because they are ignorant and only want to force their agenda and emotional beliefs among others. They will soon learn that propaganda never wins and there will always be those who speak the truth. If these Animal rights followers spoke up for true welfare of animals and conservation of these animals - There would be a lot more positive things done, but they are too worried about the Elephants in our care that are truly loved and protected from horrible threats in the wild than The Elephants that are suffering in the wild... They are selfish and only care about controlling what we do with animals and our bonds with animals. Do not Fall for the Animal Rights agenda! We hope you understand why The Ankus / Takaw / Guide is vital to working with these amazing, majestic animals. Please support well-run Circuses and Zoos. DO NOT Label all elephant handlers as abusers just because a Guide is in their hand. We need to keep elephants in our lives - because someday they'll be gone before we know it... [Above] Liz's Health decline after arriving at TES. The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee (TES) is not what it appears to be. Since it's opening in 1995, TES has a dark history of death, disease, neglect and taking received donations for personal use. Here are a few SHOCKING facts about TES, you probably had no idea about. (EVIDENCE INCLUDED) #1. Highest Death Rate of Any Elephant facility in the US -- Since it's opening, TES is responsible for over 17 elephant deaths. We know not every facility is perfect, There will be deaths BUT The Death Rate is what's the concern here. At least 2 Elephants die at TES each year. 6 Elephants have died in a 3-year period alone! To the Animal Rights Extremists, The deaths seem "natural" and They claim the Elephants die because they were worked to death from their previous lives and "gave up". Nonsense and Lies! These Elephants were in fact proven that they did not show health problems or mental issues UNTIL arriving at the facility. Another concern is the causes of death - over 70% are apparently 'Unknown", while others died of foot diseases or TB (Tuberculosis). Some were also said to be euthanized for unknown reasons. The Life expediency at TES is only between 40-50 years, while in Zoos and most circuses, It's 50-70 years. The oldest elephants in human care happen to reside in Zoological or Circus care. The oldest Elephants in the US happen to be in proper human care. Let's analyze the Deaths of TES: - DEATHS + CAUSE OF DEATH: Barbara (aged 35) - pulmonary infection and chronic wasting disease Tina (aged 34) - Heart Problems Lota (aged 53) - Tuberculosis (TB) Jenny (aged 34) - Foot problems Delhi (aged 72) - Unknown Queenie (aged 49) - Unknown Bunny (aged 56) - filed as "Unknown" (We'll get to what happened to her...) Lottie (aged 47) - Unknown, but most reports claim TB exposure Dulary (aged 50) - Unknown Frieda (aged 49) - filed under "Unknown", TB exposure Liz (aged 58) - TB (confirmed by TES) Misty (aged 52) - Euthanized (Unknown reasons) Winkie (aged 51) - Euthanized (Foot issues) Ned (aged 22) - Starved to death (death filed as "unknown") Zula (aged 34) - Fell after entering the barn, died that night (filed as "Unknown") Rosie (aged 47) - Collapsed; never helped up Hadari (aged 37) - Cardiac Arrest (body wasn't found until hours later) - FULL DEATH REPORT HERE #2. Horrible Living Conditions and refused Veterinary care -- The Elephants of TES are forced to stay in cramped, concrete barn stalls. They have no substrate - like rubber mats, straw, sawdust or soft soil to ease their feet, like Zoos and Circuses provide. Standing on Concrete for long periods of time causes severe foot issues and can lead to diseases, as concrete is highly difficult to disinfect, Elephants are isolated while in the stalls and some have gotten so frustrated, They have harmed themselves by hitting their heads on the steel bars, causing bruises. The elephants are in the stalls almost 60% of their days, some only allowed outside for a photoshoot. Untreated Foot rot, dehydrated skin, dry ankles and infections are other commonly seen issues in Elephants at TES. It's obvious that there is no proper veterinary care provided which has led to such health issues and deaths. There is no Hands-On care at TES, like Zoological facilities mostly provide. According to sources written by former caregivers, The Elephants are basically ignored, expected to be wild animals again and deal with things on their own. [EXTRA READ] The Truth About Bunny's Death Bunny spent the majority of her life at the Mesker Park Zoo in Indiana, until The Zoo had to find her a new home due to financial issues and because they wanted her "retired". Bunny arrived at TES in September of 1999 and like them all, For a few months, She was kept isolated. Bunny did socialize after that but not so much. She never grew up with these elephants so she ignored them. After about 3 years there, Bunny was diagnosed with Severe Foot problems and slight arthritis. Files revealed that Bunny was barely treated and was still forced to be in a concrete barn stall without anything to ease her feet, which is why she chose to stay outside as much as she could. Her foot issues grew worse after more time went on, even developing minor foot rot on her back feet. - Sadly, In May of 2009 - Bunny fell down outside and couldn't get back up. TES staff used a Backhole to try to get her up but only injured her more. Carol Buckley was CEO of TES at the time and was told Bunny needed to be euthanized by a Veterinarian from the University of Georgia. Buckley did no such thing and only allowed a Tarp over Bunny and doped her up on pain medications, while Bunny laid there for 13 days and finally died, crushed by her own weight. TES was immediately cited by the USDA for not euthanizing Bunny when told to. Bunny had to suffer for 13 days and suffered without treatment for her feet for years. This was WRONG and VILE. - USDA REPORT: #3. Underemployed, Hostile Work Environment and Begging for Donations -- You heard right, TES is currently underemployed with only 6 elephant caregivers and 2 veterinarians, both members of PETA, on site. TES does however have more Board members and have linked 40-60% of their funds to PETA and their own legal expenses rather than buying needs for their Elephants. In one financial report, over $3,000 was mysteriously gone. TES claims to provide lots of fresh produce and hay for their elephants but Zoo elephants get more hay and fruits than TES elephants! In photos posted by TES, You'll never see an elephant given a entire stack or mountain of hay or a big pile of produce. TES expects them to be wild elephants again and only feed them these things like treats, making them live off the land. For the last few months, TES has been practically begging for donations since Nosey arrived - proving they see these animals as nothing but "poster children". Their employees also aren't required high education, only a year of internship and volunteering. So there's uneducated caregivers with no true knowledge of how to care for these animals, unlike those in Zoos and Circuses that are required to have some form of animal education or have spent their lives with elephants since childhood. Former employees of TES have spoken up about the welfare of the elephants as well as how their work environment was like. A Letter posted by one former elephant caregiver has been recently uncovered - revealing more on the true nature of former CEOs - Carol Buckley and Scott Blais. - FULL LETTER HERE: #4. TES allowed an Elephant named Ned to starve himself to Death -- In 2008, An Elephant named Ned was reportedly "confiscated" by the USDA and forced to be taken to TES. Ned's owner, Lance Ramos explained that Ned was a highly picky eater and the Elephant's personal veterinarian had Ned on a strict diet due to Ned having his own food preferences. Ned was not severely underweight when taken and while Ned was in the trailer to be taken to TES, Ramos tried bringing Ned some of his favorite treats and to say Good-Bye but was threatened by an officer that he would be shot on sight if he came near the elephant. Ned was taken to TES, and There he was completely miserable. Ned was kept isolated, had little contact and with lack of respect, TES staff did not continue Ned's prescribed Diet as recommended by his vet. For days, Ned refused to eat and barely drank water. He lost weight very quickly withing a couple months. Staff kept using Ned to gain donations, which were never used to help him. Within 6 months, Ned grew weakened and He finally died. TES later wrote that Ned had "ulcers and scarring in his intestines from stress". Elephant experts and Ned's personal vet denied this. His personal vet saying that Ned had none of those issues when he was with Ramos, If he did, Ramos wouldn't have him travel at all. Ned was only 22 years old and was the youngest to suffer and die of the neglect at TES. #5. TES is a Tuberculosis (TB) Breeding ground -- TES has had more TB outbreaks occur at their facility more than any facility in the US (besides PAWS - another awful "sanctuary" in CA) - Reported exposures and Outbreaks occurred in 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016. Former CEO Carol Buckley and Staff blamed elephants Liz and Lota for the first TB exposing in 2009 when really it was the staff who was never tested for TB. At least 3 staff members were tested positive after the TB outbreak was learned. You see, these "Sanctuaries" do not have the same guidelines as Zoos and Circuses - which is Staff must be monthly tested for TB - as it is highly contagious between humans and elephants alike. TES claims Lota had TB after coming to TES from the Hawthorn Corp. but records from Hawthown revealed that Lota didn't test positive for TB while she was there. Lota tested positive within a month of being at TES. It was passed to Liz and 2 other elephants. TES did treatment but not enough. TES used the TB stories to gain more donations for their own use. Liz was exposed again and again in 2010, 2012 and 2015, until she finally died from TB in 2015. With concrete barns and such large spaces, It is near to impossible to completely get rid of TB bacteria and the bacteria can breed constantly. TES only isolated TB positive Elephants, and there are no reports of them giving proper trunk washes to Elephants with TB. Recently, TES admitted that in 2017 that Shirley has been exposed to TB since 2016 and is isolated. It's only a matter of time before Shirley becomes another victim. Sissy and Debbie are also suspected to have TB as their weight loss is a sign. Also, currently 5 of TES's Asian herd are in "Q-Habitat" or "Quarantine" - another TB outbreak is possible... The Elephant Sanctuary (TES) is NO "Paradise" for Elephants - We urge you to support Well-run Zoos and Circuses, who deeply love and work with these animals each day to inspire people to care for them and educate the public on the actual suffering elephants in The Wild - dying from poaching or habitat loss. DO NOT DONATE to TES - These Elephants deserve to be in a proper zoological facility, not a Death Camp!
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