But here we are in 2024, with reindeer being paraded around the country every Christmas. This is despite the fact that the same activity would be illegal if associated with a traveling circus (as outlined in a new report by Freedom For Animals). What is a five-minute “festival” to ordinary people is equivalent to a lifetime of suffering for the reindeer, who are kept in captivity all year round.
Ironically, the reason we are in awe of reindeer is because we understand their wild nature. We imagine them wandering through snowy landscapes, surrounded by icy winds and eating moss. To capture this, these semi-wild animals are kept in captivity all year round, where their needs are never met. Decreased health and well-being in captive reindeer have been repeatedly reported, and reindeer suffer even more when transported across the country and exposed to the stressful environment of festival events.
There is another method. We can respect reindeer and imagine their lives in the snow through storytelling and creativity, but we can also leave reindeer alone to live in peace. This Christmas (or beyond), please avoid participating in events involving live animals.
For more information, visit animalaid.org.uk/reindeer.
Nina Copleston-Hawkens, Campaign Manager, Animal Welfare
