Making Hay

Sometimes, Seeing is Believing: Using Cameras to Expose Farm Animal Abuse

 
by Gene

As farm animal advocates, one of the most powerful tools we have comes in the form of video images. Recognizing the power of pictures, an Israeli organization called Anonymous for Animal Rights recently caused quite a stir after it installed a hidden camera in a battery cage facility at an undisclosed location. Streaming a live web-feed of chickens crammed into tiny cages, the group hopes that by shedding light on the suffering of farm animals they might encourage legal reform in Israel.

While federal law and regulation in the U.S. attempts to prohibit certain abusive practices at slaughterhouses, sadly, the reality falls desperately short of those intentions. Numerous undercover investigations by animal protection organizations demonstrate that farm animal cruelty all too often goes unpunished. To view some of the powerful investigative footage Farm Sanctuary has gathered over the years, including our new Thanksgiving’s Toll on Turkeys compilation of turkey factory farming footage, visit our Youtube channel.

Now, government officials are considering the use of video surveillance in agriculture facilities to reduce animal suffering and worker-inflicted cruelty. The Food Safety Inspection Service recently issued proposed guidance encouraging slaughter facilities to install cameras in order to expand oversight. However, despite their own acknowledgment that animal handling violations are difficult to document with only few inspectors on the ground, the agency neglected to make video monitoring a requirement.

With billions of farm animals forced through production lines in the U.S. each year, it’s impossible to ensure that each individual animal is spared from the most egregious abuse. That’s why we’re speaking up to ask officials to make video monitoring at slaughterhouses not merely a recommendation, but a requirement. I hope you will join us in contacting the USDA so we can help ensure that the cruelty occurring behind slaughterhouse doors no longer goes unseen.

 

New Thanksgiving's Toll on Turkeys Video Launched!

by Gene

I am pleased to announce the launch of a new video just in time for the approaching holiday: Thanksgiving’s Toll on Turkeys. Featuring footage from Farm Sanctuary’s groundbreaking investigations through the years, this video exposes the truth behind commercial turkey production and follows the heartbreaking trajectory of these exploited birds’ lives – showing what they endure from artificial insemination to slaughter. It is a comprehensive look at the industry and provides plenty of important reasons, and motivation, to keep turkeys off the dinner table.

In addition to illustrating the plight of factory farmed turkeys, the video also explores why these sensitive, social animals are worthy of protection. With clips of our sanctuary turkeys engaging in their daily routines and being honored with feasts of their own at our Celebration FOR the Turkeys, it gives viewers a glimpse into the emotional lives of these birds and shows that, just like cats and dogs, they too have feelings and desires all their own. As this section of the video puts a face on the suffering endured by the millions of turkeys slaughtered in the U.S. every year, it also tells viewers how they can help bring an end to cruelty and start a new holiday tradition by participating in our Adopt-A-Turkey Project.

We are very proud of this new video and believe it has a lot of potential to open hearts and minds. I encourage you to help us spread compassion by sharing this important new video with everyone you can. Together, we can make it viral and create change for turkeys this Thanksgiving!

P.S. You can also order this video as a DVD to use for tabling purposes, to showcase at viewing parties around Thanksgiving, or to keep in your video library. The DVD also includes bonus features including three PSAs with actress Ginnifer Goodwin promoting a compassionate Thanksgiving!

The NYC Walk for Farm Animals: Big is Beautiful!

 
by Beth Begany

Seven hundred and fifty people.

That’s how many caring individuals gathered in NYC’s Central Park on October 24 to demonstrate their support for compassion for farm animals.

The movement for change is growing each year, gathering strength and momentum as more and more people recognize that farm animals are among the most abused animals on earth. In growing numbers, people are standing up to say “no” to factory farming.

We can do better — for the animals, for ourselves and for the planet — and the Walk for Farm Animals brings together those who are committed to creating that change and living more compassionately.

New York City is our flagship Walk, and we expected it to be big. But when it’s this big, we can’t help but be honored and so encouraged that people are joining us to speak out for farm animals.

One strong voice that resonated at the NYC Walk was that of our official marshal, four time NBA champion and vegan wellness guru, John Salley (pictured with Gene Baur in the top photo). John traveled all the way from L.A. to lead the Walk, a proud Brooklyn native returning to his hometown to add his voice for a cause he so strongly supports. John shared his personal message of compassion from the heart. It was nothing short of inspirational. Farm Sanctuary is so honored that John was with us.

Another dignitary at the NYC Walk was Jane Velez-Mitchell, host of Issues with Jane Velez-Mitchell on HLN. Jane is a true hero for animals, using her platform as a national news show host to promote animal protection. She featured John and the Walk on her show, not only before the event (click on top video to view here), but after (click on video below to view here), as well, ensuring even more people learned about farm animal issues and Farm Sanctuary’s work to end cruelty. Thank you Jane!

And, talking about Farm Sanctuary’s work, president and co-founder Gene Baur was on hand to share his thoughts about creating change for farm animals. Joshua Katcher of The Discerning Brute was our special master of ceremonies, and Leanne Hilgart of vegan fashion house Vaute Couture took to the stage to encourage people to find their own niche to work for change.

It was truly a special day and one for the record books.

So, if you joined the New York City Walk, thank you. If you participated in any of the other 77 Walks or the virtual Walk, thank you. If you supported the Walk with a donation, thank you. We could not do this work without each and every one of you.

Together, we are creating a more compassionate world.

 

 

Our 2010 Walk Has Star Power!

 

By Beth Begany

Everyone who participates in the Walk for Farm Animals, from our coordinators to our walkers to our donors, is a bona fide hero. Each individual contributes to a growing movement of compassion that brings us closer to a world where violence toward farm animals has ended.

As our grassroots efforts expand, it becomes ever more important to get mainstream exposure, bringing our message of hope and change to as large an audience as possible.

That’s why having celebrities involved in our work is such a powerful tool. They help us reach new people and capture media attention we might not otherwise have enjoyed.

This year’s Walk is turning out to be a star-studded success! National Walk spokesperson Bob Harper, a celebrity trainer on the hit show The Biggest Loser, has already helped us garner lots of media exposure. If you haven’t already seen his interview or public service announcement, please take a look and then distribute and post widely. Bob has serious mainstream appeal and his message of compassion in these pieces is truly compelling.

Bob's PSA for the Walk.

Not only do we have Bob in our corner, NBA Champion, wellness guru and all around great guy, John Salley has just signed on to lead our flagship NYC Walk. John is a Brooklyn native, and he’s coming home to participate in this important event and speak out for farm animals. If you’re anywhere near New York City on October 24, please come. It’s going to be a fun, exciting and powerful event. Come and walk with John!

And, while we’re on the subject of exciting…how about the fact that Grammy-award-winning singer/songwriter Colbie Caillat and guitarist Justin Young were special guests at our Ventura California Walk? Not only did they walk for farm animals, they also treated walkers to a special live set. A local radio station showed up to broadcast from the Walk and that helped us reach a new audience with our message.

 
Colbie with Larry at our New York Shelter.

Colbie and Justin are even raising money for their participation in the Walk, so we invite all their fans and Farm Sanctuary friends to contribute to their fundraising page. Please show these amazing and compassionate celebs how much we appreciate their time, talent and support, and sponsor them!

To all our Walk superstars — celebrity or otherwise — thank you for helping spread the word about farm animal issues. Together we are creating meaningful and lasting change, one step at a time.

Top photo: John Salley, courtesy of jsquaredphotography.com.

 

Rescued Bull Illuminates Problems with Livestock Transportation

 

By Gene

Jay the bull cheats death. On the way to the slaughterhouse, the truck carrying Jay and his companions rear-ended another vehicle in Chesteron, Indiana, causing the truck to burst into flames. Cattle spilled out into the road – some were stumbling around, still on fire, while others lay on the ground, dying from injuries and burns. Eighteen of the 34 animals involved perished. Of the 16 remaining, all were accounted for and subsequently transported to the slaughterhouse … all except Jay. This resilient bull instead spent more than 12 hours on the lam, eluding authorities and captivating the hearts of the local community, which thought of him as a sort of bovine folk hero. Eventually, he was captured and brought to the Porter County Animal Shelter. Soon after Farm Sanctuary was alerted to his situation, we offered to give him refuge.

Though Jay’s story has a happy ending, livestock transportation accidents happen too frequently and rarely are the animals involved so fortunate. In fact, a similar story emerged from Omaha, Nebraska last week. A truck hauling 176 pigs tipped over while attempting to negotiate a curve and some of its living cargo fell out. Twenty of the pigs died in the crash while two others had to be euthanized later on. Thousands of farm animals are killed or injured in similar accidents throughout the country each year. It is because of statistics like these, not to mention stories like Jay’s, that livestock transportation remains an important concern in the realm of animal protection.

In Farm Sanctuary’s 2006 report on the subject, we identified two primary problems with livestock transportation: the possibility of highway accidents and the manner in which animals involved in those accidents are treated. Effectively, even if an animal is lucky enough to survive an accident, that individual can be injured or killed in the ensuing events. Animals can be struck by passing vehicles, die while waiting to be rescued, be inappropriately handled by first responders who aren’t trained for such circumstances, or, like Jay’s friends, be simply whisked off to slaughter as though nothing had happened.

This system cannot continue on the way it has been. As farm animal advocates, it is our duty to speak up on behalf of those who cannot speak up for themselves and make sure their interests are heard.

To learn more about the subject of livestock transportation, please read our report.

Top photo: Jay at the Porter County Animal Shelter.

Compassion for All: Introducing the 2010 Walk for Farm Animals

by Beth Begany

It’s now official: The 2010 Walk for Farm Animals is open for business, and compassionate people around the country are already signing up to participate.

Every year the Walks get bigger, as more people recognize the plight of farm animals and take an active role in speaking out for change. This year, celebrity trainer Bob Harper of the hit TV show The Biggest Loser joins us in bringing attention to farm animal issues as our 2010 Walk spokesperson. Having a spokesperson is new for us, and we couldn’t be happier to have such an inspiring and compassionate person working with us on this important event.

If you’ve ever seen Bob on TV, or picked up one of his workout videos, or visited his website, you know how much passion and positive energy he has, and how infectious that is. When Bob talks, people can’t seem to help but listen. He is a tireless advocate for the people he’s working to help, and he never, ever gives up. He’s kind and supportive, but he can also be tough when necessary. He knows what’s at stake, and he keeps his eye on the prize.

As we work to create change for farm animals, Bob’s example is a great one. We all need to be positive, kind, tireless and sometimes tough. And, we all need to make sure we take care of ourselves, because without our own health and well-being, we can’t be effective for others—including farm animals.

While the Walks are certainly good exercise and help us get some fresh air, they also serve as an important reminder of how much we sometimes take for granted—the ability to go outside, to stretch when we’ve sat too long, to get away and have some time alone, to smell clean air and see blue sky, to choose a mate, to raise our young. These are the fundamental freedoms that so many farm animals never experience. Forget playing 18 holes of golf or running a marathon, what about taking two steps in any direction? What about simply turning around? The reality of what most farm animals endure is beyond our ability to even begin to imagine.

Which is why the Walks are so important.

The Walk helps us raise awareness about farm animal abuse, neglect and cruelty so people can know what’s happening and begin to take action to help.

We welcome Bob to the Walk and thank him wholeheartedly for his support and for his decision to speak out for animals. We know he will help us reach an even greater audience with our important message of compassion for farm animals.

Top photo: Bob Harper, 2010 Walk for Farm Animals Spokesperson

Change for Chickens (and the Nation)

 
 

by Gene

In Ohio, half a million citizens signed petitions this year to place a measure on the statewide ballot to outlaw veal crates, gestation crates and battery cages. As the deadline to submit those signatures approached last month, agribusiness came to the table and agreed to phase out veal crates and gestation crates and to disallow any new battery cage operations from being constructed in Ohio. The fact that agribusiness leaders agreed to phase out veal crates and gestation crates, and put a moratorium on new battery cage facilities, is significant, indicating that these systems are coming to be widely recognized as unacceptable. Although we weren’t able to achieve a full phase out of battery cages at this time in Ohio, the signatures gathered for the initiative will remain valid and they can be submitted in the future if need be.

It is critical to continue educating consumers and pushing for an end to battery cages. So far, two states, California and Michigan, have passed laws to phase out battery cages, and we expect that number to grow in the coming years. And this week, Governor Schwarzenegger signed a bill into law that prohibits the sale of eggs from facilities that do not adhere to California’s battery cage ban. California is the nation’s most populated state and it represents a huge market for eggs and other products so banning the sale of battery cage eggs in California is extremely significant and will go a long way toward pushing egg producers to move away from these cruel confinement systems.

Just 10 years ago, there were no laws in the U.S. to outlaw inhumane enclosures like veal crates, gestation crates and battery cages. Today, eight states (Florida, Arizona, Oregon, Colorado, Maine, California, Michigan and Ohio) have taken steps to ban at least one of these cruel systems, and more are sure to follow. Finally, the cruelty of factory farming is being challenged, and changed.

Important Progress for Farm Animals in Ohio

 

by Gene

Over the past year, more than 500,000 Ohio citizens signed a petition aimed at placing an initiative on the statewide ballot this November to ban cruel factory farming practices. Those signatures gathered by tireless volunteers, many of whom were Farm Sanctuary members, were to be submitted this week, kicking off an initiative battle to be waged over the course of the next several months. However, at the eleventh hour, as it became clear that we had enough signatures to make it on the ballot, agribusiness came to the table and an agreement was brokered by Ohio’s Governor Stickland. Here’s what came of the agreement pertaining to farm animals:

• A ban on veal crates, to be phased out within six years, as outlined in the ballot initiative.
• A ban on new gestation crates in the state after December 31, 2010. Existing facilities are grandfathered, but must cease use of these crates within 15 years.
• A permanent moratorium on permits for new battery cage facilities in place immediately.
• A ban on the transport of downed cows and calves for slaughter, as outlined in the ballot initiative.
• A ban on strangulation and other forms of on farm killing that are not included in euthanasia standards as outlined by the American Veterinary Medical Association and part of the ballot initiative.
• Enactment of legislation establishing felony-level penalties for cock fighters.

This agreement didn’t accomplish everything we would like, as quickly as we would like, but we will continue raising awareness and actively fighting to ban these intolerably cruel systems. And, if agribusiness doesn’t comply with this agreement, we have the option to go back to the ballot with the 500,000 signatures already gathered.

Ohio has been known for its exceptionally weak animal protection laws and, as the second largest egg producer, it is among the most entrenched factory farming states in the U.S., so these developments are especially important. The moratorium on new egg laying facilities includes putting a stop to plans for a six million hen battery cage operation that was in the final stages of approval. And no less than six new gestation crate facilities were in the works in the state. We have driven a spike into the cogs of factory farming and agribusiness leaders are finally coming to recognize that treating cows, pigs, chickens and other animals as mere production units is inconsistent with popular sentiments.

When citizens speak up, change is inevitable. Agribusiness never would have come to the table had it not been for all the volunteers giving their time and commitment to this cause by gathering signatures and gaining endorsements. We are proud to have stood alongside these volunteers as well as several organizations working toward one common goal to end cruel factory farming practices in Ohio. The movement to protect farm animals is gaining momentum, and the reforms announced this week in Ohio will reverberate in Washington, D.C. and send ripples across the United States.

An Act(ivism) of Love

 

By Beth Begany
 
In June, wedding season heats up about as fast as the weather, as couples exchange vows in ceremonies that confirm their commitment to the beloved person next to them. People gather to witness a public affirmation of love and to honor and celebrate the lucky pair. These celebrations of love afford couples an opportunity to express their commitment to ethical living. Vegan weddings and commitment ceremonies are increasingly prevalent these days, as couples opt for gourmet plant-based fare that is in keeping with their ethical lifestyle.

While it’s possible these days to do a vegan wedding almost anywhere, some couples dream of having their special day at Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen, NY or Orland, CA, and over the years we’ve provided the compassionate backdrop for a number of ceremonies. Mike and Sherry Depsky didn’t really consider getting married anywhere else (although they admit to flirting ever so briefly with the idea of an Elvis impersonator in Las Vegas), and they tied the knot in our Watkins Glen visitors’ center in 2004. They return just about every year to celebrate their anniversary and stay in one of our B&B cabins.

When Ann Hawkes and Ferrol Johnson get married this fall, it will be hundreds of miles away from Farm Sanctuary outside Bloomington, Indiana in a lodge the couple is renting for the weekend. They will host about 40 guests. It’s really important to them that the celebration of their nuptials is cruelty-free, so they decided the best way was to provide housing and food for the entire weekend so guests would be completely taken care of. They plan to do all the cooking themselves, except for the cake.

One of the most important traditions is the wedding cake, and vegan versions are truly spectacular, as well as delicious. Vegan bakeries abound, and some specialize in creating memorable and delectable creations designed to please both the eyes and the palate. (Check out Sticky Fingers Bakery, Hippie Chick Bakery and Vegan Treats for some pictures of truly incredible vegan wedding cakes.)

Another traditional part of weddings and commitment ceremonies are gifts. Couples receive gifts, but they also give them in the form of mementos of the special day. Leslie Carmona recounts how she and husband Jason wove their veganism into their 2009 wedding: “We really wanted our wedding to reflect who we are as a couple. Animal advocacy is such an important part of our lives, so it was only natural for us to share this with our family and friends. At the reception, we gave each guest a Farm Sanctuary wine glass, along with a card describing this wonderful organization. It was a great way to support one of our favorite organizations, while giving a gift to commemorate our special day.”

And talking about support, some couples even ask for donations to Farm Sanctuary in lieu of wedding gifts. That’s what Ann and Ferrol are doing. “We’re already established, so we don’t really need anything,” Ann explains. “So instead we’re asking that if anyone wants to give a gift, they make a donation to Farm Sanctuary.”

This is the feel-good stuff that makes people cry at weddings and commitment ceremonies — there is so much love that it fills you with tears of joy. Throw veganism into the mix and you also get hope. When compassionate couples use their special day to extend their circle of kindness to include animals the impact is tremendous as they demonstrate that love does indeed conquer all.

Top photo: Sherry and Mike's wedding at Farm Sanctuary.

Another Video Exposing an Industry that Treats Animals Like Trash

 

by Gene

Last month, an investigative video showing abuses at an Ohio dairy farm surfaced, which led to cruelty charges being filed against at least one individual who was caught on tape maliciously beating cows and calves with pitch forks and metal rods. This month, another disturbing video that exposes the systemic suffering that occurs at our nation’s hatcheries has been released. It shows unwanted ducklings and chicks being discarded like garbage, and others injured as they get caught up in the factory farming machinery.

How has it come to this? Why are living animals literally treated like trash? It’s the result of an agribusiness attitude that sees animals as mere tools of production. When the animals are of no economic use, they are discarded by the easiest and cheapest means available. In the case of chicks at the hatchery they are commonly ground up alive. Farm Sanctuary investigators have also documented live chicks thrown in trash bins or dumped in manure spreaders and spread on a field like manure.

Along with sick, injured or disfigured chicks who are killed because they are not considered economically viable, millions of healthy day old chicks are also killed every year. These are the male offspring of commercial egg laying chickens, and they are of no economic use to the industry. They don’t grow fast enough to be raised profitably for meat, and they will never lay eggs, so they are killed right after they hatch.

Unfortunately, laws protecting farm animals from cruelty are grossly inadequate, and farm animals experience egregious abuse every day across the U.S. Thankfully, citizens are learning about the lives and deaths of farm animals through undercover investigations or other means, and they are rightly appalled. Change is in the air. With increasing awareness, there is a growing push to bring laws more into line with societal values, and there is also a growing interest in veganism.

In the meantime, we are calling for the Santa Cruz District Attorney’s office to reconsider prosecution in this case. Our one consolation from this latest investigation is that we were able to bring 38 of these ducklings to safety at Farm Sanctuary.