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*****THIS ALERT IS NO LONGER ACTIVE***** DO NOT SEND THIS ALERT! I was stunned to learn Karen Rosa, the American Humane Association's (AHA) film and television unit director, opposed legislation to ban bullhooks. Apparently, Rosa enthusiastically disapproved of a proposed bullhook ban at a California hearing. A bullhook is a baseball bat length pole that ends in a curved, steel hook. Bullhooks are used to inflict fear and pain in wild animals confined in unnatural settings such as zoos and circuses. Handlers view them as necessary tools to render animals submissive. Animal protection advocates view them as implements of violence. Neither the American HUMANE Association, nor its representatives, should endorse bullhook use. In one of innumerable complaints filed with the U.S. government, an affidavit describes a handler who struck an elephant's groin until "the metal hook penetrated the skin, causing an open wound from which blood began flowing." Another elephant endured bullhook beatings upon his trunk, head and feet "until the handle of the bullhook shattered." Elephant skin looks tough. In fact, it is as easily damaged or irritated as human skin. Bullhook style training subjects elephants to lacerations, puncture wounds, swelling, abscesses, and bruises. In November 2006, two former Ringling Bros. Circus employees submitted signed statements about routine training abuse. Among the allegations: An elephant was left covered in blood after a violent, 30-minute beating with a bullhook. Such behind-the-scenes abuse is all too common in circuses and other entertainment venues. The American Humane Association, entrusted with the safety and well-being of animals on film and television sets, ought to support legislation to ban bullhook use on elephants. I strongly urge you to initiate a formal policy against these brutal instruments. Thank you,

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