Armed with a video of California governor candidate John Cox interacting with an unbridled Kodiak bear named Tag at a recent press conference in Sacramento, PETA sent urgent letters to the USDA and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. We ask agencies to investigate Steve Martin’s Working Wildlife project, which provided the exploited bear, for clear violations of both federal animal welfare law (AWA) and state regulations.
Steve Martin’s book “Working Wildlife” has long cited AWA violations, including for refusing to provide animals with adequate veterinary care and to lock chimpanzees in an “flophouse” for up to 18 hours a day. It is imperative that the authorities investigate this questionable exhibitor before it can endanger anyone else.
John Cox’s £ 1000 Bear Trick to Remember PETA Criticized Gavin Newsom https://t.co/NnJWrhYyVb
– Newsweek (@Newsweek) May 5, 2021
What happened at the John Cox Bear event?
During the press conference, Cox was photographed standing on Tag’s temporary site without any barriers and feeding a bear – a 1,000-pound wild animal whose long, sharp claws could disfigure or even kill someone with a single blow. For the remainder of the event, Teg was separated from the crowd of reporters only by a two-wire fence made of electrical wire.
“Bears like Tagu should live in their natural environment in an accredited sanctuary and not be abused and used as money-making machines after being torn from their mothers. PETA is urging authorities to investigate this incident and toss the book to anyone who is guilty of using Tag and putting people in danger. “
—Debby Metzler, Deputy Director of Animal Law Enforcement, PETA
Bears love tags that suffer when used for entertainment purposes
The bears, used for photo shoots and other cheap entertainment, are separated from their mothers in infancy. They are forced into abusive training, during which they are forced to perform intricate stunts and are dragged to events that can be very stressful for them, since these animals naturally avoid people and avoid loud noises. Tag has been used many times, including in Jason Momoa’s social media trick, Dan Bilzerian’s 4/20 party, and Nickelodeon’s “talent” show.
What can you do
Never support events or places where bears are forced to engage in stressful and dangerous encounters with humans. Tell your friends, family, and social media followers not to support them either.
PETA makes it quick and easy to take action on animals using your phone or computer. The talk takes less than a minute, so what are you waiting for? Start now:
Act for the bears
Note: PETA supports animal rights, opposes all forms of animal exploitation and educates the public on these issues. PETA does not participate, directly or indirectly, or interfere in any political campaign on behalf of or against any candidate for public office or any political party.