Bull hook ban a good step

I commend the Spokane City Council for passing a ban on the use of bull hooks, which are central to the training of circus elephants. The ban means that circuses performing within Spokane City limits will not be able to bring elephants and force them to perform tricks that are unnatural and painful for them. Thank you!

I agree with Councilman Mike Fagan. We should be concerned about our treatment of domestic animals. As he mentioned, we often turn a blind eye to puppy mills, allow soring of trotting horses, use shock collars to train dogs and use electric prods to move cattle, sheep and pigs, etc.

Science continues to prove what animal lovers have known for centuries; animals are aware and sentient. They have strong emotions and family bonds. They communicate with each other, and with humans who are willing to listen. Their intelligence is often in realms beyond our understanding.

Caring people are aware of these facts. We continue to educate, and advocate, on behalf of those who have no voice in our homocentric society. Thank you, Spokane, for taking a step toward a more compassionate future.

Diana Roberts

Spokane