Warning: This article contains footage that some readers may find distressing.
A disturbing incident where a circus bear attacked its handler during a live performance has recently resurfaced on social media.
This event occurred in October 2019 at a circus in the northwest Russian Republic of Karelia, where a bear turned on its handler in front of a full audience.
According to Republic World, the act called ‘Clubfoot and the Garden Wheelbarrow’ involved the bear carrying a wheelbarrow in a tent filled with spectators, including children.
The bear was seen walking on the mat with its handler before unexpectedly swiping at him, knocking him to the ground.
The audience, shocked, watched with some even fleeing as the bear pinned the handler with its mouth.
An additional circus crew member was seen kicking the bear in the shoulder, after which it calmed down.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident, including the handler, who was also the bear’s owner, as confirmed by a circus spokeswoman.
The spokeswoman stated that the act was removed from the performance lineup: “We made the decision to part ways with the artist following the incident, and the act will no longer be featured on the program.
“Nothing serious has happened; the bear and the artist are both fine; no one killed the bear because it was not at fault.”
Though the incident occurred five years ago, it has gained attention again after being re-posted on Reddit.
The Reddit post has attracted numerous comments, with one user noting: “That bear didn’t go crazy, that bear went bear. Push your own damn wheelbarrow.”
Another commenter remarked: “People when they abuse animals, and find out, that the animals in fact, hold grudges.”
Due to allegations of animal abuse and exploitation, some US states have started banning circus acts involving wild or exotic animals.
This follows another viral incident where a circus bear on a hoverboard attacked a handler after pinning him to the ground.
The brown bear, named Donut, pinned Sergei Prichinich and appeared to bite at a stick he held. However, after a tense struggle, Donut released Prichinich, allowing him to stand up.
If you encounter an animal in distress or in need of assistance, contact the RSPCA’s 24-hour animal cruelty line at 0300 1234 999 or visit their website for more guidance. In the US, call the SPCA at 212-244-SPCA (7722) Monday – Friday 9 am-5 pm EST or dial 911 if a crime is in progress.