Protesters converged on the Orange County Fair yesterday to oppose a “Banana Derby,” which included live monkeys strapped to the backs of rescue dogs and raced around a track at high speeds.
Orange County Fair management stated the event had a great reception last year, so they brought it back again this year. Management called it an “entertaining and educational experience” for families.
However, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) called the event cruel and dangerous. PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Welfare Debbie Metzler urged the public to condemn the Orange County Fair for allowing the actions by attending a protest outside the fairgrounds yesterday afternoon.
“This is an out-of-touch, cruel, and exploitative stunt show that can only cause the monkeys great distress and anxiety.” Metzer stated. She explained that the monkeys have been filmed being violently jerked in all directions, risking serious physical injuries.
According to PETA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued citations to the exhibition at other locations across the country for failing to provide animals with adequate space, environmental enrichment, and clean, wholesome food.
Orange County Fair Manager Rob Weber stated, “We are always looking to provide our community with an opportunity for educational fun.”
