A n i m
a l W r i t e s © sm
The official ANIMAL RIGHTS ONLINE newsletter
Publisher ~ EnglandGal@aol.com
Issue #
08/02/00
Editor ~ JJswans@aol.com
Journalists ~ Park StRanger@aol.com
~
MicheleARivera@aol.com
~ SavingLife@aol.com
THE EIGHT ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE ARE:
1 ~ Animal Welfare & Animal Rights
by Marc Bekoff -
bekoffm@spot.Colorado.EDU
2 ~ Website of Note
3 ~ Nationwide Boycott
4 ~ Independent Scientific Report on Animals in
Circuses and Zoos
5 ~ Animal Rights: A Movement Whose Time Has Come
6 ~ United Poultry Concerns Second Annual Forum
7 ~ "Rescue Angels"
8 ~ Quote To Remember
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Animal Welfare & Animal Rights
by Marc Bekoff - bekoffm@spot.Colorado.EDU
Should
humans keep other animals in cages, eradicate them for human development, or
move them from one habitat to another? Human relationships with nature raise
numerous complex issues. Often people wonder why those who they perceive to be
concerned with the psychological and physical health of animals can't agree on
solutions to existing problems. They believe that advocates of animal welfare
and animal rights will favor the same solutions. Often this isn't so. A consideration of some recent local issues
the Estes Park Zoo, reintroduction of lynx, eradication of prairie dogs, dog
labs at CU's medical school and the high death rate at Ocean Journey highlights
the differences between these views.
People who believe that it's permissible to cause animals pain, but not
unnecessary pain, argue that if we consider the animals' welfare or well-being
their quality of life that's all we need to do. These people are called
"welfarists" and they practice "welfarism." Welfarists
believe that while humans should not wantonly exploit animals, as long as we
make animals' lives comfortable, physically and psychologically, we're
respecting their welfare. If animals experience comfort and some of life's
pleasures, appear happy, and are free from prolonged or intense pain, fear,
hunger and other unpleasant states, they're doing fine. If individuals show
normal growth and reproduction, and are free from disease, injury, malnutrition
and other types of suffering, they're doing well and we're fulfilling our obligations
to them.
Welfarists also assume that it's alright to use animals to meet human ends as
long as certain safeguards are used. They believe keeping animals in zoos and
aquariums where there are high death rates (about 20 percent at Denver's Ocean
Journey, the "industry standard"), using animals in experiments and
slaughtering animals for human consumption are permissible as long as these
activities are conducted in a humane way. But welfarists don't believe that
animals' lives have inherent value. Animals' lives are valuable merely because
of their utility or use-value to humans.
Basically, welfarists are utilitarians who believe that dogs, cats, prairie
dogs, or any other animals can be exploited as long as the pain and suffering
that the animals experience, the costs of using the animals, to the animals are
less than the benefits to humans that are gained by using the animals. Animal
pain and death are justified because of the benefits that humans derive. The
ends (human benefits) justify the means (the use of animals) even if they
suffer, because their use is considered to be necessary for human gains. Those
who argue that moving animals around for human benefits and using dogs to teach
medical students often employ the utilitarian argument, as do those who feel
comfortable eating formerly "free-ranging chickens" but not chickens
who've been brutally debeaked and imprisoned in inhumane battery cages.
Now what about those who advocate animal rights? Rightists also are concerned
with animals' quality of life. However, they argue it's wrong to abuse or
exploit animals, to cause animals any pain and suffering, and that animals
shouldn't be eaten, held captive in zoos, or used in most (or any) educational
or research settings. They believe animals have certain moral and legal rights
including the right to life and the right not to be harmed. According to Gary
Francione, a professor of law at Rutgers University, to say an animal has a
"right" to have an interest protected means the animal is entitled to
have that interest protected even if it would benefit us to do otherwise.
Rightists believe humans have an obligation to honor that claim for animals,
just as they do for nonconsenting humans who can't protect their own interests.
So, if a dog has a right to be fed you have an obligation to make sure she's
fed. If a dog has a right to be fed, you're obligated not to do anything to
interfere with feeding her.
Rightists also stress that animals' lives are inherently valuable; their lives
aren't valuable because of their utility to humans. Animals aren't "less
valuable" than humans. Also, animals are neither property nor
"things," but rather living organisms, subjects of a dignified life,
who are worthy of our support, friendship, compassion and respect. Any amount
of pain and death is unnecessary and unacceptable.
Now, what about many conservation biologists and environmentalists? Typically,
they're welfarists (utilitarians) who are willing to trade-off individuals'
lives for the perceived good of higher levels of organization such as
ecosystems, populations or species. Witness recent debates about the
reintroduction of lynx into Colorado. Some conservationists and
environmentalists, in contrast to rightists, argued that the death (even
agonizingly painful starvation) of some individuals was permissible for the
perceived good of the species. Some even say that we should concentrate on the
14 animals who are known to be alive, rather than the 15 dead or
12 missing. People who claim it's alright to kill some prairie dogs
because there are numerous other prairie dogs, are taking a utilitarian stance.
The costs to individuals (and species) are less than the benefits to humans.
Labeling an individual a "welfarist" or "rightist" connotes
important messages about their views on animal exploitation. One must be
careful how these words are tossed around. Welfarists and rightists have
radically different perceptions, perspectives and agendas, and solve problems
differently. They preach very different codes of conduct. Welfarism and rights
are extremely difficult to reconcile. Indeed, many experts think it's an
impossible marriage. Nonetheless, its essential to understand their different
perspectives in our efforts to protect animals who can't speak for themselves,
whose voices fall on deaf ears.
Marc Bekoff teaches in Environmental, Population, and Organismic Biology at
CU-Boulder.
January 16, 2000
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Website of Note
You
might be interested to know that the Models with Conscience website is
ready! It features details about our extraordinary group, photos of our
gorgeous models, tips for humane living, links to other animal-friendly sites,
and much more. I invite you to take a look and share any feedback you may
have. Our site is available at either of these addresses:
www.enviroweb.org/mwc
or www.modelswc.com
Models
with Conscience
Source: BHGazette@aol.com
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Nationwide Boycott
On
July 5, 2000, IDA formally launched a national boycott of Petland, Inc., one of
the country's largest pet store chains selling puppies and kittens. Over a year
ago I documented numerous Midwestern dealers and brokers delivering puppies
acquired from "puppy mill" breeders to Petland stores. I sent
Petland's CEO, Greg Hudson, a courteous yet resolute letter insisting that they
sever all ties to the large scale commercial pet production and distribution
industry. After nearly one month of silence I have learned that Petland
officials are planning a trip to the Midwest to scout out some of their
suppliers. Any subsequent announcements by Petland that they have dropped
specific breeders should be viewed as inconsequential. The actions of Petland's
officials clearly show that they value profits over the care and well-being of
the unfortunate animals who are products of the puppy mill industry.
For over 15 years I have watched puppy mills flourish with animals housed in
unimaginable and heinous conditions. As an Investigator for USDA's Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), I documented and submitted cases
against puppy mill operators for administrative hearings. In case after case,
year after year, the USDA did not fulfill its responsibility to uphold the law.
Policies have evolved that view puppy mills as an alternate agri-business.
Enforcement initiatives clearly favor the vitality of licensees, rather than
the well being of animals. I can't forget the images of filth, disease, despair
and depravation so painfully evident at these facilities. Three years ago I
joined IDA and have continued my efforts to expose and rectify the suffering
and misery in mills. The magnitude of suffering and misery, however,
necessitates a unified effort.
Please join us in our boycott against Petland and their puppy mill
suppliers. Listed below are activities
necessary to advance our campaign against the commercial pet production and
distribution industry. The high demand for puppies and kittens will wane when
"consumers" learn the truth about this cruel and heartless industry.
Our campaign will also highlight the plight of millions of animals in animal shelters
who are euthanized for lack of an adoptive family - another vile consequence of
the puppy mill industry.
What you can do!
1. Meet with the owner or manager of your local Petland and explain your
determination to educate consumers regarding puppy mills and how pet store
purchases perpetuate mills. If there is not a Petland in your community, please
target any pet store that sells puppies and kittens. Admonish management at
these establishments to offer adoptable animals from rescue groups and shelters
rather than to continue supporting the "mill" industry.
2. Contact local rescue groups and shelters regarding the availability of
adoptable animals. Find out how many are euthanized annually versus those who
are adopted.
3. Identify and promote local and national pet supply stores that don't sell
puppies and kittens. Pet supply stores that don't sell live animals at all
would be preferable.
4. Send letters to the editor regarding the campaign, stressing the plight of
puppy mill animals as well as the forgotten animals who languish in animal
shelters.
5. Organize volunteers to distribute educational brochures, display posters,
etc., as close as possible to a Petland entrance. Coverage should be as
consistent as possible, and should be most prominent during peak shopping
hours. Puppy and kitten sales historically drop during the summer months and
pick back up when school starts; sales will intensify during the Christmas
season.
6. To maximize our combined efforts in this crucial campaign, display one of
our banners on your organization's website, including our "Boycott
Petland" banner. (http://www.idausa.org/linktousf.html)
7. Please feel free to forward copies of local news coverage (video or printed)
that may be suitable for posting on our Web page.
8. Email me with information about your campaign efforts (which we will post on
our website), and to order free brochures, flyers and posters specifically
created for this campaign.
The lives of millions of animals depend on our making this campaign successful. I am confident that we can significantly
impact the pet industry and their commercial suppliers. The images of mill
animals permanently etched in my mind motivate my passion and determination to
advance this campaign. Please feel free to contact me at (573) 636-9291, or
e-mail me at msmith@idausa.org to get this campaign in full throttle. Let's
keep the lives of these animals foremost in our minds and work hand-in-hand to
end this suffering and misery.
Sincerely,
Marshall Smith
Director of Investigations
msmith@idausa.org
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Independent Scientific Report
on Animals in Circuses and Zoos
The independent scientific report by Dr. Marthe
Kiley-Worthington on the keeping of animals in circuses and zoos can be found
online at:
http://members.dencity.com/K-WReport/
It covers questions like:
* Do animals in circuses and zoos suffer psychological
ill-health?
* Is handling and training cruel?
* Does transportation cause stress?
It gives suggested minimum standards that should be met, and comes out firmly
against the shackling of circus elephants.
Well worth a read, and could be important to quote from when discussing these
matters with local authorities.
Source: dobson@webtribe.net
(Mark Dobson)
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Animal Rights:
A Movement Whose Time Has Come
Like the civil rights and women's rights
movements before it, the animal rights movement has mushroomed into a social
and political movement of monumental proportions. As never before in
history, people of all persuasions are speaking out against practices and
institutions that violate animals. Advocates are challenging the furrier,
the puppy mill operator, the circus promoter, and the laboratory
researcher. They are confronting the zoo keeper, the pet shop owner, the
dog track operator, the meat and dairy farmer, and the sport hunter. In
every arena where animals are exploited, people are standing up and declaring,
"Enough! We won't take it any more! Animals have rights!"
Animal rights can no longer be dismissed as an extremist philosophy spouted by
"fringe elements." Leaders of the animal rights movement are
educated and well-informed. Their challenges are based on facts, not
rhetoric.
Many victories have been achieved for animals in recent years. Animal
advocates have successfully intervened to reduce the needless suffering and
untimely deaths of countless animals. But that's just the tiniest tip of
the iceberg. There is still a long, long way to go.
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United Poultry Concerns
Second Annual Forum
The Role of Farmed Animal
Sanctuaries
in Promoting Animal Rights & Vegetarianism
September 16 - 17, 2000
Agenda: To define and discuss the place and
practice of farmed animal sanctuaries in promoting Animal Liberation. What do
they teach? How do they advance animal rights? Where does vegan advocacy fit
in? Thinking of starting a sanctuary?
Speakers:
Lorri Bauston, Co-director, Farm Sanctuary
Jim Brewer & Dale Riffle, Directors, PIGS, a Sanctuary
Terry Cummings, Co-Director, Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary
Karen Davis, Director, United Poultry Concerns
Jim Mason, Director, Two Mauds, Inc.
Brad Miller, National Director, Suwanna Ranch,
The Humane Farming Association.
Kim Sturla, Director, Animal Place
Where: September 16 - Hilton Norfolk Airport
1500 North Military Highway, Norfolk, VA
23502
Reservations: www.hilton.com or (800)
422-7474
or (757) 466-8000
Rooms: single & double $89.00 plus tax
September 17 - United Poultry Concerns
12325 Seaside Road, Machipongo, VA 23405
(a 40 minute drive from the Hilton)
When: Saturday September 16, 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Sunday September 17, 9 AM - 2 PM
Registration fee: $50.00 per person, pre-paid
Students - $30,
per person, pre-paid
Send check or money order payable to United Poultry Concerns and a
self-addressed stamped envelope to: United Poultry Concerns, PO Box 150,
Machipongo, VA 23405. Payment for registration must be received by Tuesday,
September 12, 2000.
Meals: Registration includes morning coffee service and two vegan luncheon
buffets
Merchandise and Literature Will Be Available
Throughout the Day on September 16
Please note: Hotel reservations received after Friday, September 1, 2000 will
be accepted on a space available basis. All room cancellations must be received
by the Hilton Reservations Department 24 hours prior September 16, 2000 for a
room refund.
Source:
franklin@upc-online.org
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"Rescue Angels"
Tail tucked between your legs,
Confusion in your eyes-
I know it's hard to understand
That Someone heard your cries.
When loneliness is all you know
and pain is all you feel-
And no one can be trusted,
And hunger's all too real.
That's the time the Lord sees you
And lets you know He's there.
That's when He sends His messengers-
The hearts that love and care.
Yes, rescuers are angels-
You cannot see their wings,
They keep them neatly folded
As they do their caring things.
The medicine to make you well
Good food to make you strong,
And finally to help you learn,
That hugs are never wrong.
The perfect place then must be found-
The home where you can live
Secure and safe and happy-
With joy to get and give.
When you reach your Forever Home,
Your place to feel whole,
The Angels smile, and off they go-
To save another soul.
© 2000 Buster The Rhymin' Rescue Dog/Julie W. Smith
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Quote To Remember
".....most
people have forgotten how to live with living creatures, with living systems,
and that, in turn, is the reason why man, whenever he comes into contact with
nature, threatens to kill the natural system in which and from which he lives."
~~Konrad
Lorenz, naturalist
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Susan Roghair - EnglandGal@aol.com
Animal Rights Online
P O Box 7053
Tampa, Fl 33673-7053
http://www.oocities.org/RainForest/1395/
-=Animal Rights Online=-
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