Update: Sadly, this bill did not garner the necessary support from the Assembly committee that considered it. Please check back for future efforts on this issue.
Bill Description: If passed, this bill will prohibit the use of an ankus, bullhook, or similar device on an elephant. In addition, the use of chains on an elephant is prohibited except for medical treatment. In addition, this bill sets minimum care requirements for elephants housed at stationary facilities.
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Elephants in the wild live in large, sociable herds spending 16 hours a day walking and eating. Walking over a large area is good for elephants as it allows adequate exercise and keeps their toenails and foot pads worn down, which prevents foot ailments that are the leading cause of euthanasia in captive elephants. This malady is not seen in their wild counterparts. Elephants in captivity are often denied the appropriate space to freely move around. In addition, most stationary facilities in California do not provide the appropriate exercise.