West Hollywood Bans Exotic Animal Displays and Performances

The West Hollywood City Council approved an ordinance banning commercial displays and performances involving wild and exotic animals, Monday.

The ban approved Monday night covers more than two dozen animals, including kangaroos, giraffes, bears, armadillos, civets and badgers.

More than a dozen people discussed the measure before the West Hollywood City Council, including a woman who, while speaking in favor of the ban, held up a bullhook used to prod elephants, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Many spoke out against the ban, claiming the evidence used for the ban was not encompassing of the issue. While others claimed the ban was not strong enough, that the council should not have allowed the exemption for activities associated with a film permit.

After the vote, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals said in a statement that West Hollywood had sent "a clear message" that the city welcomes entertainment "but not at the expense of animals' well-being."

The ban is the latest pro-animal measure by a city that has already banned the sale of apparel made of fur -- the fur ban takes effect this month -- and recognizes pet owners as "guardians." In 2003, West Hollywood became the first city in the nation to ban cat declawing, and it banned the retail sale of cats and dogs in 2010.

The ordinance approved Monday night bans circus acts, carnival performances, trade shows and parades involving animals and events requiring wild animals to do tricks, fight or perform "for the entertainment, amusement or benefit of an audience." The display of wild or exotic animals for educational purposes or to groups of 20 or less will be allowed.

-City News Service contributed to this report