A firsthand account of life in a traveling menagerie, detailing animal training methods, daily routines, and the temperaments of lions, tigers, elephants and assorted exotic species. The narrative covers logistics and expenses of transporting and housing animals, care of young beasts, roles of circus dogs and camels, and the layout of winter quarters and transport gear. Chapters examine psychological and behavioral traits of captive animals and describe practical challenges such as feeding, health, repairs and risks. Photographic illustrations and anecdotes illuminate the working relationships between handlers and animals and the preparations behind each performance.