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In
India reality show Fear Factor may be running on
AXN without a hitch but in America it has created a storm.
The American Humane Association (AHA) has alleged that television
networks NBC and CBS have made a conscious corporate decision
to condone the killing and abuse of animals simply to jack
up ratings.
Viewers
expressed great disapproval over the 11 March episode of
Fear Factor on NBC. AHA claims to have received statements
from viewers finding the blatant disregard for animal safety
appalling. Responses indicated 'extreme concern, disgust,
and anger.' There is tension over the fact that the marketing
of animal cruelty, regardless of species, sends the message
to a large audience of kids that violence against animals
is a valid and acceptable form of entertainment.
Veterinarians,
herpetologists, and professional animal trainers have confirmed
that the snakes on Fear Factor showed evidence of
trauma and injury. A profesional made the following statement,
"A snake has a backbone comprised of many, fine and delicate
ribs which are easily broken. Their skin is fragile, as
is their musculature. From what we viewed, many of these
snakes suffered permanent injuries and unnecessary abuse
for the sole purpose of entertainment".
Besides Fear Factor, Survivor has also come
under a cloud. In an official release AHA has stated that
its Film and Television Unit regards the shows mistreatment
of animals as being completely unacceptable.
VP AHA's Western Regional Office Karen Goschen said, "The
mission of AHA's Film and TV Unit is to protect everything
from ants to elephants because all life should be respected.
By sending the message that it is okay to disregard the
lives of even the smallest animals, NBC and CBS are disregarding
public cries for compassion.
If
we permit the abuse and exploitation of animals in reality
entertainment, we stand the danger of encouraging additional
abuse in the real world. AHA has received complaints regarding
'Fear Factor', Survivor, Murder in Small Town
X, and Real TV.
Professional
trainers in the film industry say they refuse to work on
these shows because the producers demand stunts that violate
AHA's "Guidelines for the Safe Use of Animals in Filmed
Media", including killing animals. However AHA has no jurisdiction
over reality shows and producers state that since
they have not technically broken laws, they will not adhere
to AHA's Guidelines.
AHA's
Film and Television Unit claims to have protected animal
actors for over 60 years and its Guidelines are considered
the industry standard. Most entertainment products for television,
motion picture, commercials, and video markets fall under
its jurisdiction and are eligible for the well-known "no
animal was harmed" disclaimer the release states.
Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association claims
to be America's only national non-profit organisation dedicated
to protecting children and animals from cruelty, abuse,
neglect and exploitation.
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