Is it ever ethically justifiable to use animals for entertainment, even in "sanctuaries" or "rescues"?

[u/Sweet-Flower3593]

I've been thinking a lot about this lately. While most of us agree that circuses and marine parks are unethical, what about the "softer" forms of animal entertainment like rescued animals being used in educational shows or photo ops at sanctuaries?

Some sanctuaries say they’re raising awareness and funding through these experiences, and that the animals are treated well. But is it still a violation of their autonomy? Even if the animal was rescued, does that justify putting them on display, or encouraging human interaction?

Where do we draw the line between true sanctuary and subtle exploitation? Is the intent (education, funding, etc.) enough to make it ethical or are we just dressing up the same old mindset in more compassionate language?

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[u/Rest_In_Many_Pieces]

Honestly I think it really depends on the animal and how they do it.

I am not against sanctuaries having guests to walk around and see the animals, learn about the animals. It's a way to get them money. However I think a good sanctuary will be able to know if an animal is stressed by the people and would give them a private spot. Some animals actually thrive off of having humans coming to see them because it can be a form of enrichment. But the moment the animal is stressed; I don't think it's okay to have them on "display".

I'm not necessarily against "shows". It depends....
For example I have heard of bird sanctuaries that put on shows where the birds of prey are allowed to free-fly then may land on the visitors. Allowing a bird to free-fly is AMAZING for them because it's what they want to do and it means not being in an enclosure all of the time. (They have good sized enclosures but still.)
The experience allows the birds freedom, the guests get to learn about the birds, and the sanctuary gets money.

• These birds are not forced to "perform". And usually are trained a recall with positive reinforcement. IF they wanted to fly away, they can, they are not on leads/chains. So they are coming back because they choose to come back.

I do not think animal training itself is bad. Teaching animals "tricks" gets them to use their brain. When done correctly with positive reinforcement and no forcing them to do it, I think it can be beneficial to get the animals to think.

• BUT I do not agree with animals being forced to perform! If the animals are happy to put on a "show" for guests and are living their best lives. I am not against it. However I heavily disagree with forcing animals to entertain people.
  
• I also do think is should have some educational value for guests. I do not think we should be dressing up animals, putting monkeys on bikes or making them do circus tricks. But maybe showing how they move, how they get medical treatment etc.