Lifestyle
Do vegans go to zoos and circuses?
Short answer
Usually not. Veganism opposes using animals for entertainment, so most vegans skip animal circuses and zoos. Instead they support animal sanctuaries and watch animals in the wild.
Circuses with animals involve training, transport and conditions at odds with the needs of the species – hence the clear objection. Modern circuses with human performers only are fine.
Some people point to zoos’ conservation programmes for endangered species, but for veganism the key issue is that the animals are kept captive for visitors. Alternatives: sanctuaries where rescued animals live until a natural death, nature reserves and national parks.