<P> Some circuses now present animal - free acts . Bolivia has enacted what animal rights activists called the world's first ban on all animals in circuses . </P> <P> Bullfighting is criticized by animal rights or animal welfare activists, referring to it as a cruel or barbaric blood sport in which the bull suffers severe stress and a slow, torturous death . A number of activist groups undertake anti-bullfighting actions in Spain and other countries . In Spanish, opposition to bullfighting is referred to as antitaurismo . </P> <P> The Bulletpoint Bullfight warns that bullfighting is "not for the squeamish", advising spectators to "be prepared for blood". It details prolonged and profuse bleeding caused by horse - mounted lancers, the charging by the bull of a blindfolded, armored horse who is "sometimes doped up, and unaware of the proximity of the bull", the placing of barbed darts by banderilleros, followed by the matador's fatal sword thrust . It stresses that these procedures are a normal part of bullfighting and that death is rarely instantaneous . It further warns those attending bullfights to "be prepared to witness various failed attempts at killing the animal before it lies down ." </P> <P> The "Toro Jubilo" or Toro embolado in Soria, Medinaceli, Spain, is a festival associated with animal cruelty . During this festival, balls of pitch are attached to a bull's horns and set on fire . The bull is then released into the streets and can do nothing but run around in pain, often smashing into walls in an attempt to douse the fire . These fiery balls can burn for hours, and they burn the bull's horns, body, and eyes--all while spectators cheer and run around the victim . The animal rights group PACMA has described the fiesta as "a clear example of animal mistreatment", and PETA calls it "a sadistic festival". </P>

Article on why animals are ill treated and what can be done to prevent it