In a recent press release, animal rights organization PETA has urged Chance Rides, the largest amusement ride manufacturer in Kansas, to put an end to the production and sale of animal-themed carousels.
PETA believes that these rides promote the exploitation of animals and instead, the organization has suggested that Chance Rides produce carousel figures in the shape of cars, airplanes, spaceships, bulldozers, and other vehicles, or more whimsical designs like shooting stars, rainbows, or brooms.
PETA President Ingrid Newkirk stated in the press release that “children learn through play, and teaching them to have respect and compassion for all living, feeling beings can help create a more just and merciful world.” According to the organization, the concept of using animal-shaped carousel figures dates back to a time when the use of animals as conveyances and amusements was considered acceptable. However, with evolving times, PETA believes that this practice should be abandoned and replaced with more imaginative and human-centric designs.
In a letter addressed to Aaron Landrum, the president and CEO of Chance Rides, PETA implored the company to halt the production of animal-themed carousels. The organization argued that these rides unintentionally celebrate the exploitation of sentient beings. PETA highlighted that animals used for entertainment, such as camels, horses, elephants, and dolphins, are often confined, mistreated, and even slaughtered when their bodies wear out. The letter also referenced a recent PETA Asia investigation which revealed the cruel treatment of camels in Egypt, who are badly beaten and abused.
According to PETA, all animals are thinking, feeling, affectionate, playful, and social beings who form strong bonds with their offspring if given the chance. The organization stated that animals crave freedom from oppression and should not be used for human entertainment.
By producing animal-shaped carousel figures, PETA believes that the notion of animals being solely here for our amusement is reinforced. This outlook disregards the fact that animals possess the same capacity as humans to experience emotions like fear, pain, joy, and love.
In addition to promoting animal exploitation, PETA also argues that animal-themed carousels contribute to the negative perceptions and treatment of animals. The organization states that these rides portray animals as objects or props for human entertainment, rather than living beings with their own lives and interests. The letter to Chance Rides stated that “animal-themed carousel sets reinforce the notion that these sentient beings are simply here for our entertainment” and urged the company to pledge to stop producing such rides.
PETA’s call for an end to animal-themed carousels has received support from animal rights activists and organizations. This initiative is also in line with PETA’s larger mission of promoting and protecting the rights of animals through education, legal action, and public outreach. The organization believes that banning animal-themed carousels is a significant step toward animal welfare and can set an example for other amusement ride manufacturers to follow.
In response to PETA’s letter, Chance Rides has not yet made a public statement. However, the organization plans to continue advocating for the rights of animals used in entertainment and hopes that Chance Rides will join them in their efforts. In the meantime, PETA has urged the public to reconsider riding animal-themed carousels and support amusement parks and companies that offer animal-free entertainment.
As animal welfare continues to gain widespread recognition and support globally, it is essential for industries such as the amusement park industry to also evolve and put an end to practices that harm animals.
