In Russia, there are over 300 animals performing in circuses like the Zapashny Brothers' Circus in Ivanov, near Moscow, which attract huge crowds and there is little or no opposition to it, in contrast with Europe where many countries have banned circuses with animals.

Sky News obtained access to a rehearsal for the new show for the Zapashny Brothers' Circus, in which tigers and lions are reluctantly forced with whips and sticks to perform in water. Sky News said "The backstage living conditions are a depressing sight. The animals pace up and down in the minimal space they have. Many are visibly stressed."

VITA, A Russian animal charity opposed to circuses with animals said: "People's conscience is not at the level where they see circuses as cruel. To the contrary, there is a belief here in Russia that children need to be taken to circus so they are taught how to love animals. But circuses cannot teach you anything. Children are seeing slaves, not animals."

An average of 20,000 people a week attend the Zapashny Brothers' Circus. As long as the audiences keep coming, the animals will keep performing.