AceShowbiz -

Britney Spears has come under fire from PETA (The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) again for her new music video, "Circus". The video that was premiered last week, is considered a merciless act to animals because she uses cruelly trained lions and elephants in the video even after "PETA wrote to her and explained in graphic detail how trainers shock, whip, and beat exotic animals into performing."

In a press release, PETA also urge people to give an online petition that is directed to Britney to stop using exotic animals in her music videos and concerts. The organization also point out that the companies that provided Britney with the animals, Steve Martin's Working Wildlife and Have Trunk Will Travel, have a long history of animal exploitation. Before elephants are told to perform tricks, they are shocked with electric prods in the most sensitive parts of their bodies, claimed PETA.

"Britney may think her life is a circus, but for the animals who are whipped, chained, and beaten to perform under the real big top, the cruelty is very real," said PETA Director Debbie Leahy. "She may be headed for a comeback, but when it comes to animals, she still can't get her act together."

In 2001, Britney was also the subject of PETA's rant about animal cruelty when she performed at 2001 MTV Video Music Awards with a yellow python on stage.

"Circus" is the second single and the title track of Britney Spears' new studio album that was released on December 2.