PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — The Three Bears General Store is home to twin bears, River and Daisy. Every day, people stop by the store to shop or see the bears.

Animal rights group PETA has been working for years to get bears from the store released. They're now calling for the twins to be placed into a sanctuary.

To start their week-long efforts in Sevier County, volunteers and a seven-foot animatronic bear named "Bernard" set up about half a mile away from the store. The robotic bear was voiced by actor Casey Affleck.

►Related: Actor Joaquin Phoenix urges Pigeon Forge business to release two bears

The bear told a story about being safe and protected in a sanctuary while other bears suffered in roadside zoos.

"They need your help. They deserve freedom. If you don't go, they'll have to l

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