Would You Punch a Kangaroo in the Face?

It sounds like a bit from a Jeff Foxworthy routine, but unfortunately, these rednecks aren’t kidding: The Piccadilly Circus is hauling around a diapered kangaroo named Rocky and forcing him to “fight” in boxing matches. PETA has asked officials in Pueblo, Colorado, the circus’s next stop, to enforce an ordinance that prohibits animals from being mistreated or abused and to stop the show from taking place. Regardless of where you live, please let Pueblo officials know that you expect them to pull the plug on this cruel show.

Rocky is clearly stressed and has charged people during photo shoots and chewed on his own arm, and although restrained, he has attempted to flee the ring during the act. Javier Martinez, the exhibitor responsible for this spectacle, has been cited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for failing to handle a kangaroo in a manner that does not cause trauma, behavioral stress, physical harm, or unnecessary discomfort while in Pueblo in violation of the Animal Welfare Act.

At least two kangaroos used in Martinez’s “boxing” act have died while touring with a circus, including one who died from complications of a deadly bacterial disease called “lumpy jaw,” which can result from severe crowding, poor hygiene, poor diet, and stressful conditions.

Put the pressure on Pueblo officials by sending them an e-mail today and urging them to KO the kangaroo boxing act.

Written by Jennifer O’Connor