Special alert to organizations that use animals for entertainment. PETA is feeling its oats after taking credit for the closure of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. PETA’s website now issues a very clear warning:
“All other animal circuses, roadside zoos, and wild animal exhibitors, including marine amusement parks like SeaWorld and the Miami Seaquarium, must take note.”
I have worked directly with PETA during my career. My experience is that while some of their people can be unyielding on many points, there are also many realists who are willing to look for common ground. The common ground is very likely there. Who is not for humane treatment of animals?! If your organization cannot make a commitment to be in favor of humane treatment of animals, you have even bigger problems than PETA.
If you are in their crosshairs, consider contacting PETA. Talk to them. Listen openly to their perspectives. Work to build trust and relationships.