Speciesism on Display: Reindeer Used as Holiday Props are Exploited and Neglected

Each holiday season, countless businesses and organizations host events to celebrate with their community and mark the year’s end. Sadly, whenever there is an opportunity to gather crowds, a subset of people will exploit animals for likes, ticket sales, or profits. Using animals as decorations, props, and attractions is a form of speciesism, the human-centric belief that all other species are inferior and can, therefore, be used as we please.

Despite being sensitive animals who stress easily in noisy crowds and become anxious when restrained with halters and reins, reindeer bear the brunt of holiday speciesism. When not used for human entertainment, these social animals live on farms, in rental facilities, or at roadside zoos, where they are often neglected and rarely receive adequate veterinary care.

In nature, reindeer travel over 1,000 miles during their annual migration. When strapped to sleighs, used in parades, displays, or at events, they are denied the opportunity to travel, forage, and socialize with their herd. Please politely urge the following companies to cancel all planned live animal displays and focus instead on the true meaning of the holidays: generosity, connection, and gratitude.

Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply

Lancaster Stormers

Jackson County Fairgrounds

Coffee Clubhouse

Santa Ynez Botanic Garden at River View Park

Rotary Lights

Kent District Library

Thank you for your compassion for animals.