Not everyone is celebrating Britney Spears' moment under the Big Top. The pop star's video for the title track of her 'Circus' album, with a slew of supporting performances and appearances from 'cruelly trained lions and elephants', has come in for a lot of flak from animal rights organization - PETA. The organization has written to Spears, explaining 'how trainers shock, whip, and beat exotic animals into performing.' PETA has also slammed trainers Gary and Kari Johnson and accused them of having 'long histories of exploiting animals.'

In her statement, PETA Director Debbie Leahy says: "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." On a more sarcastic note, she adds: "She may be headed for a comeback, but when it comes to animals, she still can't get her act together."

Not the first time Britney has used exotic animals, she also shared the stage with a giant boa constrictor for her 'I'm a Slave 4 U' performance, during her 2001 MTV Video Music Awards. However, this time she has really earned the ire of PETA, who have posted an action alert on their website, where people can write to Spears to ask her to stop using exotic animals in her videos and concerts.

In a written statement to MTV, Kari Johnson responding to PETA's allegations, states a representative from the American Humane Association was present on Britney Spears 'Circus' video set, for ensuring the safety and welfare of the elephants, adding: "Britney, the director, producers and the entire crew were respectful of the elephants' needs and comfort."