My cousin was in the Renaissance faire in North Carolina this year so I decided to go for the first time since I was maybe 10. While the horses, etc. appeared well cared for (and they had the areas where they walked/stabled/groomed in public view) I was very upset to see elephant and camel rides offered. Here is their contact information, if anyone would like to write polite letters explaining why elephants have no business giving rides to small children (or in captivity in general) I would really appreciate it, I would love to be able to go see my cousin next year without supporting animal cruelty. http://www.royalfaires.com/carolina/default.asp?page=71

Because they had so many elephants and camels in medieval Europe? :stinkeye:

I have thought the same thing when I go to the Ren Festival in Kansas City (KS). They also have pony rides (where they are connected to one of those circle things, and just walk in a circle) and a petting zoo. I've really been considering writing to them about it - so thanks for reminding me about this. It seems I always think about it when I am there, but then I never do anything about it, even though it bothers me.

Jen - Often the theme at the KC Ren Fest includes Roman barbarians and gladiator fights. So maybe the elephants and camels go with that? But for the most part - I agree!

Thanks Beloved!! I love these kinds of posts!! It's always very wise to find out who is running the rides - but I am guessing at this point that it is "Frisco Bros. Petting Zoo" (think they also own camels)I will do some digging to see if I can find out for sure. Do you know if the The reason why it is good to know whose animals these are is because you can google or check PETA - there is always a rap sheet on the animals' owners which is great to send as well when you write the letter.

Also, it's also worthy to note that TB is often present in elephants - a communicable desease - and although it's never been reported that elephants have transmitted it to humans does not mean it hasn't been done. Again - I will get some info on that - I am running late this a.m. (LOL)

Thank you for your post!

OK, Here is a little blurb about TB and transmission. Again I stress that I don't know of any elephant/human transmission - BUT that does not mean it hasn't happened or that it cannot happen because TB is an airborne disease. This is what I had on file but it's easily looked up on the net, there is lots of information about it there. http://www.captiveanimals.org/elephants/eart2.htm

6 KNOWN circus elephants have died of TB in the last 10 years

The Risks from TB
The implications for members of the public, of all ages, but especially children, visiting circuses with elephant acts are considerable. TB can be transmitted from elephants to people and vice versa. The symptoms of TB including coughing (sometimes bringing up blood), tiredness, fever and weightloss. Elephants may also suffer from a chronic nasal discharge. On the positive side, TB is treatable in both animals and humans, given the right care and attention.

I can't confirm who was doing the elephant rides - sorry.

Because they had so many elephants and camels in medieval Europe? :stinkeye:
:lol:

Thanks for doing the research Noelson, if we can at least get the rennissance faire to not invite them back then they'll have one less way of making money which is something even if it isn't perfect.