Los Angeles Bans the Use of Bullhooks in Circuses

The Los Angeles City Council has instated a ban on the use of bullhooks, axe handles, baseball bats, and pitchforks in circuses. Bullhooks are sharp-ended sticks that are used to jab and hit elephants to make them perform tricks through intimidation. The decision to outlaw the inhumane tool was handed down by council members after they viewed undercover footage taken by People for the Ethical Treatment Animals showing the cruel treatment that circus elephants are forced to endure. Some third parties speculate that the ban will prevent major circus such as Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Baily from performing in the city due to their heavy reliance on bullhooks to train the animals.