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We represent the average consumer who
eats meat, drinks milk, wears leather, and owns pets. It
is our hope that the Department of Agriculture, legislators,
and the public will not listen to a few vocal groups, which
say they want larger, cleaner cages, but demonstrate by
their actions that they really want empty cages.
In fact, animal agriculture industries
compose a large animal welfare group in terms of total dollars
spent in caring for animals, and the percent of income derived
from animals being returned in terms of food and caring
for animals.
You should recognize that not one person
in animal agriculture profits from animal abuse and neglect.
However, there are those groups whose sole income is derived
from capitalizing on the perception that animal abuse and
neglect is widespread. Those same groups collect monies
supposedly to relieve animal suffering. In fact, they spend
a very small percentage of what is received on actual care
giving while the majority is spent on salaries and lobbying.
These groups must constantly "stir the pot"
of public opinion, for if a problem doesn't exist, then
one must be created if their income is to continue.
We must recognize the difference between
animal welfare and animal rights extremism
groups. Hopefully, if you examine the evidence in light
of the information provided... (Animal
Rights Extremism vs. Animal Welfare) you can determine
the motivation of each group.
We request that in all considerations
of change, four conditions must be evaluated for change
to be considered.
- Is there a demonstrated, significant
need or problem?
- Is the perceived problem one
that is caused by a lack of enforcement, or a problem
with current regulations or lack thereof?
- Are the changes being considered
scientifically or factually derived alternatives that
are better than existing laws?
- Is that alternative practicable
and enforceable?
Professionals in animal agriculture have
put forth a huge effort for animal welfare and to obey our
laws. This demonstrates their commitment to actively
providing for animal welfare.
As an animal welfare association we encourage
you to continue working with us as well as the professionals
from animal agriculture. Our animal welfare interests are
in line with the average person. Please do not be deceived
by those who would appear interested in animal welfare when
their true agenda is animal rights extremism.
Most people feel
the following resolution is consistent with animal welfare,
human rights, education, and our responsibility to care
for animals both wild and domestic. You may want to let
your legislators and regulators know how you feel.
Education and Animal Welfare Resolution
WHEREAS the State Legislature passes
laws which govern agriculture within the State, and
WHEREAS such laws should promote public understanding
and appreciation of the wise use of domestic animals, wildlife
and fish, for scientific purposes, economic benefits, services,
enjoyment and pets, and
WHEREAS responsible breeding and care of all fish
and animals is essential to the efficient and profitable
production of food and other animal products, and
WHEREAS the intrinsic interdependence of humans and
animals provides personal and public benefits, and
WHEREAS the use of scientific and ecological principles
are essential to conserve and manage wildlife and their
habitats in an ecological and social context that fosters
long-term survival, welfare, and balance of wild and domestic
animals, and
WHEREAS research utilizing animals is still necessary
to ensure more effective medical treatment for humans and
animals,
THEREFORE be it resolved that the Legislature supports
properly researched and industry-tested livestock and animal
husbandry practices that promote proper animal care and
provide consumers with wholesome food, a choice of fiber
products, and animals for service and pets. Such practices
include:
• High standards of animal health
and management of livestock and pet animals.
• The use of transportation and handling
facilities that provide for animal health and safety.
• Consultation for licensed veterinarians
concerning health needs and the use of good products.
The Legislature
also resolve to:
• Support public and private education
programs that present the facts of animal production, use,
service, and pleasure to the general public.
• Support research that improves animal
health, productivity, and the quality of animal products,
including practical methods for implementing the findings
of this research on farms, ranches, breeding facilities,
and to the public at large.
• Support wildlife Management practices
based upon scientific research that will insure a balance
between domestic animals and fish and wildlife population
for use and enjoyment by humans.
• Support lawful animal displays that
increase public awareness of animals and their importance
in modern life as sources of food, fiber, scientific knowledge,
service, and pleasure as pets.
• Oppose the concept of animal rights
extremism which places animals on an equal, moral, or legal
basis with humans; the expenditure of public funds to promote
animal rights extremism; and the use of materials in public
schools that discourage, through misinformation, the use
of animals and animal products.
• Oppose legislation and regulation
that would prohibit or unduly restrict the use of animals
in research for food, fiber, services, or responsible breeding
of animals for pets, hobby or lawful sport.
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