Target: U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack
Goal: Seek justice and peace for elderly elephant by investigating alleged mistreatment and advocating for her retirement to a sanctuary.
Concerns are mounting over the welfare of Ohka, a 54-year-old Asian elephant touring with the Mysterious Circus currently in Waco, Texas. Local residents and animal welfare advocates have raised alarms about her living conditions, alleging that she is confined to a small enclosure where she stands on hard surfaces amid her own waste, with limited access to water. Videos and photos circulating on social media reportedly show Ohka exhibiting repetitive swaying behaviors, which some experts interpret as signs of stress or distress in captive elephants.
Kristina Cox, a concerned resident, shared images of Ohka, stating, “She stands, swaying all day… in one spot and is then loaded and carelessly transported to the next town to ‘perform.'” Others have echoed these concerns, planning protests to draw attention to Ohka’s situation.
The circus owner denies any mistreatment, asserting that Ohka is well-cared for by a dedicated caretaker. However, past allegations against the elephant’s owner, including citations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for animal welfare violations, have intensified calls for an independent investigation.
Elephants are highly intelligent and social animals that require ample space, environmental enrichment, and social interaction to maintain their physical and psychological health. Prolonged confinement, isolation, and constant travel can lead to stress-related behaviors and health issues.
It is imperative that authorities investigate these allegations to ensure that Ohka is receiving proper care in compliance with the Animal Welfare Act. If mistreatment is found, steps should be taken to retire Ohka to an accredited sanctuary where she can live out her remaining years in a natural and nurturing environment.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Secretary Vilsack,
I am writing to express deep concern regarding the welfare of Ohka, a 54-year-old Asian elephant currently touring with the Mysterious Circus in Texas. Recent reports and visual evidence from local residents suggest that Ohka may be subjected to inadequate living conditions, including confinement in a small enclosure without sufficient access to water and appropriate space. Observers have noted behaviors indicative of stress, such as repetitive swaying.
Furthermore, there are reports that the elephant’s owner has previously faced citations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for animal welfare violations. This history raises additional concerns about the standard of care Ohka is receiving.
Elephants are majestic creatures that require specialized care to meet their complex physical and psychological needs. I respectfully urge the USDA to conduct a thorough investigation into Ohka’s current living conditions and the care provided by the circus. If any violations of the Animal Welfare Act are identified, please take appropriate action to ensure her well-being, including considering her retirement to an accredited sanctuary where she can receive the care she deserves.
Protecting animals like Ohka reflects our collective commitment to ethical treatment and compassion for all living beings. Your attention to this matter is crucial in safeguarding her welfare.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Alex Krasavtsev
