Official Response to PETA
This is CBG's official response to PETA concerning Judy, an Indian Elephant, that was on our property during our Easter weekend services.
It has come to our attention that some people and organizations have a problem with us having Judy, a 9000 pound Indian Elephant, on our property to promote our current teaching series on relationships, “Rehab.” While we are sensitive to, sympathize, and, to some extent, agree with their concerns, we have taken every step to ensure that Judy will be comfortable while she is on our property. In fact, we are doing everything within our power to make certain that Judy has the best possible care. This includes providing the proper amount of food, water, shade, safety, and other needs throughout her time with us. Judy will not be made to perform any tricks or offer rides. She will simply be with us to hang out for the weekend.
In the end, we appreciate everyone’s concern for Judy. It has given us an opportunity to follow-up with her owners/caregivers to make certain she will have everything she needs while she is with us.
With that said, here is a statement from her caregivers:
Our organization is a non-profit, wildlife education company that provides programs and shows to inspire people to learn about the natural world. By bringing animals to the public at events, schools, and other gatherings, our organization enables people of all ages to safely touch and ask questions about wildlife. This direct interaction fosters a lasting, memorable bond between patrons and wildlife much more than television, photographs, preaching or hype ever could.
While our organization shares the desire of animal rights activists to protect captive and wild animals, some misguided members of these groups see captive wildlife programs as harmful. Our organization operates under the regulations set forth by the state and federal authorities to protect the safety of the public and the well-being of captive wildlife.
As long as wildlife becomes threatened, endangered, and extinct at the hand of mankind, we will continue our mission to inspire the love, attractions, and concern of the public by providing a forum to interact with and ask questions about animals.
Click here to view CBG's news release.