For years, the Ringling Brothers Circus had been using elephants as one of their major attractions.
While their stunning acrobatic elephant acts enthralled audience in the past decades, animal activists began pointing out the endless atrocities hurled on captive elephants in the name of entertainment.
Source: National Geographic/YouTube
It was claimed that most circus elephants were stuck in poor living conditions and being subjected to constant mistreatment.
Apart from the rigid training equipments, the elephants were also forced to travel in cramped compartments for moving circus shows.
It was only a matter of time before this unkind behavior toward these meek creatures stirred the public’s consciousness.
Source: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey/YouTube
While the Ringling Brothers Circus maintained that their elephants were never abused, the mass protests against circuses were enough to hit their business.
With increased scrutiny and stricter laws, elephant shows lost their profitability. Eventually, the circus management decided to retire all their remaining elephants in phases.
The management invested huge funds in building a spacious Elephant Conservation Center in Polk City, Florida.
The 200-acre facility will be a safe haven for the circus’ 13 elephants, and will also act as a sanctuary for Asian elephants.
The circus plans to keep breeding these magnificent beasts and further health-based studies to maintain their longevity.
Source: National Geographic/YouTube
The video below focuses on the release of the first set of circus elephants in the sanctuary. We can see that the management has left no stone unturned to provide these gentle beasts a well-deserved, comfortable retirement.
Animal activists are still fighting to bring justice to the other animals misused in circuses, but freeing these elephants is definitely a good start!
Click the video below to watch these elephants finally experiencing freedom after a life of toiling in circuses.
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A friend of mine has a beautiful Dalmatian. Friendly, energetic and lovable, she was a perfect family pet… but she wasn’t the smartest pooch on the planet. See, she knew how to go through the pet door out into the garden, but she had no clue how to get back inside. It never occurred to her that the flap could swing both ways. So she would sit outside and howl until my friend would open the door.
Repeated demonstrations of the dual movement of the flap had no effect; it just did not compute. The dog breeds on this list, however, probably don’t have that problem. They’re widely considered to be among the cleverest canines in the world. Take a look and see if you agree.
1. German Shepherd
No surprise here. German Shepherds are the world’s best police dogs, military dogs, and some have even been movie stars (remember Rin Tin Tin?). Brave, loyal, smart and strong, they’re the total package.
Also on the list of the best family-friendly dogs in the world, the Beagle has an incredible nose that lets them sniff out just about anything. Born detectives, they’re not the most trainable pets, but they are smart. And hey, nobody ever accused Snoopy of being dumb.
3. Golden Retriever
A popular choice for assistance dogs for their easy temperament, natural intelligence and loyalty, Golden Retrievers are natural guides and also serve as great rescue dogs. Active and fun to be around, they’re wonderful family pets.
4. Border Collie
Border Collies are considered by many to be the geniuses of the dog world. Expert herders, laser-focused (they’re known for their intense stare), and incredibly agile to boot, they’re workaholics and excellent athletes. Just don’t expect to keep one cooped up in an apartment.
Did you know poodles were originally hunting dogs? They respond very well to training and are quick to learn tricks. So don’t let the fluffy looks and styled mane fool you! These dogs are among the smart canines around. Plus, they’re among the best dogs in the world for those who suffer allergies.
6. Belgian Malinois
A terrific military dog, the Malinois is a natural herder, tracker and worker. Smart, trainable and protective, these dogs require an owner who knows what he or she is doing. In addition to the military, Malinois are often recruited as guard dogs and police dogs as well.
Named for their butterfly-shaped ears, papillons are small, cute and pretty smart. They’re considered the smartest of the toy dog breed, with intelligence levels comparable to the über-smart border collie. They’re alert and focused pets, and loyal and lovable: an ideal friend for he family.
Sadly, Dobermans are known more for their ferocity than their smarts, but these are considered among the most intelligent dogs in the world, as well as one of the most effective guard dogs around. They’re outstanding students known to be affectionate and obedient.
Don’t let the wrinkles and dopey expression fool you! Bloodhounds have the keenest of noses, and are often used for trailing (so much so that their evidence can be used in court against you!). These are loving but strong-willed dogs, and are often used on search and rescue missions.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
You need a smart, determined and energetic dog to control unruly cows. And that’s just what the Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, does. They’re intelligent enough to herd these much larger creatures, and while they need their independence and wide open spaces, they’re eager workers who know how to get the job done.
Did we miss your brainy dog on this list? If so, write in and let us know about it!