Massive Awareness Campaign Launches in Atlantic City

On August 18, Alley Cat Allies' Atlantic City Fieldwork Coordinator, Amanda, witnessed three men illegally dumping a tame mother cat, Cassie, and her kittens at the Atlantic City, New Jersey Boardwalk. Thanks to your support and Amanda's witness testimony, one of the men has been fined $500 and must fulfill 15 hours of community service. The other defendant's trial is pending. Of course, Alley Cat Allies isn’t letting this case stop there. We can do more to prevent this from happening again. That’s why in November, we are launching a major awareness effort in the Atlantic City area. By sponsoring a coordinated advertising campaign, distributing leaflets at local businesses, and hosting special awareness events, we will be educating the public about the boardwalk cats and promoting local neuter programs. We’ve even created a special Truth Card to highlight the Atlantic City Boardwalk Cats Project and explain why the program is good for the cats and the community. And we aren’t doing it alone. Many volunteers will join us in this vital effort for Atlantic City’s cats.

View our list of volunteer opportunities for the Atlantic City Awareness Campaign »
Read the truth card to learn more about the Atlantic City Boardwalk Cats Project »
Learn more about the abandonment of Cassie and her kittens »

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move

Posted: 5 January 2006

Tigers go to new Home

In late July, ADI once more came to the aid of two of the tigers we rescued from the Akef Egyptian Circus nine years ago. Their future became uncertain when the land on which they lived was the target of a successful land claim. ADI stepped in to secure a new home for the tigers, fund their relocation, and pay for their care for their remaining years.

The two Bengal tigers, Mowgli (or Moggy) and Shere Khan, have led a remarkable, if not charmed life – saved from a life of torment in the circus, they seem to have had someone ready to care for them each time it has counted.

Summer 1996
In the summer of 1996 we learned that the notorious Akef Egyptian Circus had ground to a halt in Mozambique and the animals had been left to starve. The circus was regarded as a front for animal trafficking. Chimpanzees, parrots and other animals passed through their hands, and they attempted to get permits to trap wild elephants. A young woman working in a local travel agency, Elena Son, bought food for the animals and put out an SOS. ADI heard this and flew to Maputo, Mozambique. We secured the seizure of every animal: Three horses, five dogs, a python, six lions, and three tigers. The lions, tigers and python were all moved to South Africa.

Summer 2005
In 1997, the three tigers had been rehomed at Pumula Game Lodge in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, to live in a large natural bush enclosure. Tragically, after several years together the male tiger died. Then Pumula closed, and the facility was taken over by Ken and Lois Kuhle who turned it into Milimani Game Sanctuary. In the following years they released over 270 indigenous animals back into the wild. Milimani also became the first official release site of tortoises in South Africa. But in 2005 it was the target of a land claim and the land was subject to compulsory purchase. Ken and Lois had to leave by August. ADI agreed to find a new home for the tigers and began arrangements for the move. Tragically in June, Ken Kuhle suddenly died of a heart attack.

The tiger move
Just weeks after Ken’s death, Lois and the tigers needed to be off the property. It was agreed that the tigers would return to the care of Lente Roode at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, where all of the big cats had been quarantined in 1996 and where three of the lions had been rehomed. A licence for exotic species was obtained to enable the tigers to stay.

Tigers are worth more dead than alive, as trophy hunters will pay up to £30,000 for the so-called ‘thrill’ of shooting them, or if they are sold for traditional Chinese medicine and their skins. So it was vital that there was no risk whatsoever of the animals falling into the wrong hands.

Tim Phillips, Campaigns Director of ADI, oversaw the move: “I first saw these tigers in tiny two and half by one metre cages in Mozambique. I looked after them on the journey to South Africa, and was with them when they were first delivered to this sanctuary. But I had never actually seen them free – except on video. It was incredibly moving to see them emerge out of the long dry grass, lean, beautiful and free, in the glow of the African sun.”

In the early hours of 29th July, the tigers were anaesthetised by vet David Meltzer.
First one tiger was darted and placed unconscious in a travelling crate; she was given an antidote and only after she had started to come around, was the second tiger darted. With the tigers regaining consciousness in their crates, we began the eight hour journey to Hoedspruit. We stopped every hour to check them. With the sun setting, the team arrived at the Hoedspruit Centre for Endangered Species. The groggy tigers lumbered from their crates and lay down in their new enclosure in the fading sunlight. The following day they were eating heartily in the morning sunshine, starting another remarkable chapter in their lives.

ADI will continue to fund the care of the tigers for the rest of their lives. Any contributions towards this or to enable us to help other animals are greatly appreciated. Our special thanks to Lois and Ken Kuhle for all their years of care for these and other animals.

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How two tigers changed the world
After rescuing the tigers and other animals from the Akef Egyptian Circus (right inset), ADI began a campaign to tighten the rules for the cross border movements of endangered animals with travelling circuses under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). This meant reports and lobbying at CITES meetings in Africa, Europe, and South America. In 2003, new rules were adopted at the CITES Conference of Parties in Santiago Chile affecting the 160+ countries that are signatories to CITES. Mowgli and Shere Khan’s story played its part in making history.

Whatever happened to the lions rescued from the Akef Circus?
We had speculated how long the lions and tigers rescued from the Akef Circus might live; they had been almost starved to death (one tiger had died before we got there) but most went on to enjoy years of freedom. Some are still with us.

Akef (later renamed Hippie), Madonna and Sharon, the lions believed to be from the extinct-listed Barbary subspecies, were released into a huge 12 hectare enclosure at the Hoedspruit Centre for Endangered Species. After about a year and a half, Madonna had a miscarriage and did not recover, sadly she died. Akef and Sharon always remained at each other’s sides, but did not breed. ADI was also involved in the rescue and relocation to the project of other Barbary type lions from Italy. Last year (2004) Sharon died of old age. Staff at the centre did not think that the elderly Akef would cope without her, and within two months, Akef passed away too.

Goldie, Blondie and Shorty went to live at the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in the care of Brian and Jenny Jones. Goldie (the largest of the lions) died after about two years – abuse and starvation with the circus had taken their toll on his immune system. He is buried in Brian and Jenny’s garden. Shorty is now very old and it looked like this might be his last year, but he is a fighter and keeps on going. Blondie remains strong and in excellent health, ruling over his kingdom, where he now lives with another rescued lion called Sarah.

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Defenders Wins Reprieve for Threatened and Endangered Sea Turtles

Through grassroots activism and legal advocacy, Defenders of Wildlife has raised the alarm about bottom longline fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, where threatened and endangered sea turtles have been drowning and dying at alarming rates the victims of razor sharp hooks on fishing lines that span anywhere from four to nine nautical miles.

To save these turtles, the Defenders legal team engaged in intense negotiations with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMF in spring 2009, taking legal action and mobilizing nearly 50,000 caring Defenders supporters like you to speak out in favor of closing the bottom longline fishery in the Gulf of Mexico.

In April 2009, our efforts paid off in a huge victory for threatened and endangered sea turtles. The NMFS ordered a 6-month emergency closure of the bottom longline fishery in the Gulf of Mexico, providing a crucial lifeline to protect the lives of imperiled sea turtles from capture and death in the fishery.

Press Release: Emergency action implemented for threatened and endangered sea turtles (4/29/09)

Learn more about sea turtles: did you know there are seven different species of sea turtles in the world's oceans?

Adopt a sea turtle/>. Make a symbolic adoption to help support our efforts to protect these wonderful animals.

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No. 478, September 17, 2009

Great Lakes Wolves Back on Endangered List
Three Million Acres Sought for Florida Panther
Obama to Limit Auto Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Raise Gas-mileage Bar
11,000-acre Mine Stopped in Arizona
Email Activists Save Desert Tortoises
Scientists: 350 ppm or Doom for Climate, Oceans
Should We Dump Verizon? Vote Today.
Feds Vow to Get Cracking to Protect 251 Species
Nominate Your Favorite Eco-villain for the Rubber Dodo Extinction Award

Give a gift to nature and support the Center's work.

Like to share? Share Endangered Earth Online.

Check out these Center events coming up.

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Latest News from the Frontlines of Animal Welfare
September 11, 2009

1. 25 Dogs Rescued From Queens Hoarder
On August 19, after a carefully planned intervention, 25 severely neglected dogs—mostly Beagles, Miniature Pinschers and various mixes of the two—were recovered from a residence in Queens, NY. Read more about the recovery... 

2. ASPCA Happy Tails: Golden Girl
Seven-year-old Pinky Lee’s got more diva and pizzazz than most elderly felines—lus a refined taste for tummy rubs!

3. Pet Health Alert: More than 50 Percent of Elderly Dogs at Risk for Cancer
ASPCA veterinarians offer essential life-saving tips on preventing this deadly disease in dogs.

4. Vote for Your Favorite Video: Dog Days of Summer!
This August, we asked you to submit videos of your pooches enjoying their dog days of summer. Now that we’ve found our five finalists, we want you to vote for the winners!

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Dear Leigh,

Just a week and a half ago, we told you that Delia's—a store that sells cute and trendy T-shirts—was offering a shirt that promoted Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus as "The Greatest Show on Earth." We all knew that description couldn't be further from the truth, as Ringling is known for beating animals.

You wrote and called Delia's asking the company's CEO and employees to pull the shirt from its Web site and stores and stop promoting Ringling's abuse of elephants and other animals who suffer under the big top. Thanks to the efforts of compassionate people like you, we have learned from the CEO himself that the shirts will be pulled from store shelves and will be off the Web site no later than Friday, September 11! Please take a second to thank Delia's for its compassionate decision!

Life is hell on Earth for elephants and other animals who are exploited by Ringling—and because of your hard work, Ringling Bros. has taken yet another hit. This is a major victory for Tonka, Luna, and all the other elephants who desperately need help but have no voice. Because of you, people can no longer purchase this shirt and become walking billboards for Ringling and its abuse, and Ringling knows that companies don't want to be a part of its scummy history of cruelty to animals.

On behalf of elephants and animals everywhere, I thank you!

Sincerely,

Desiree Acholla
Animals in Entertainment Specialist

Click to update your e-mail preferences or to unsubscribe.

This e-mail was sent by PETA, 501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510 USA.
 

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IDA Home  |   Action Center Home  |   Donate  |   Sign Up!  |   Tell a Friend

California Fires - How You Can Help The Animal Victims

This week’s California fires remind us once again just how fragile the balance of nature is. And how the lives of thousands of animals and humans can be uprooted in a flash.

Click here to see how you can help, including volunteer opportunities.

World Go Vegan Week Is Coming October 25 - 31

The 4th annual World Go Vegan Week (WGVW) will soon be here. WGVW is a celebration of compassion, and a time to take action for animals, the environment, and everyone’s well-being. IDA invites groups and individuals to join with thousands of other compassionate people around the world during this special week. Together we will educate our communities about the vegan lifestyle as a compassionate, sustainable, and healthy way of eating and living. Click here to learn more and see how you can get involved.

The Cove Sparks Action!

The dolphin hunt depicted in the award-winning film The Cove was supposed to begin anew in Japan this week, but Ric O'Barry, our coalition's man on the ground at the cove, reports exciting developments! Most important, the film, the hunt, and our Save Japan Dolphins Coalition are being debated on Japanese television for the first time - see an interesting TV news story (with English subtitles) here. And another one here.

New media and updates are being added to the Coalition website daily, so check here for the latest.

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Announcing Jane’s Fall 2009
United States Lecture Tour

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The name says it all. Tracking BEARS is Action Grizzly Bear's monthly E-newsletter that will help you track campaign progress and government action on implementing the B.E.A.R.S. Essentials for Recovery. It will provide campaign updates, discuss current issues, highlight upcoming events and generally help you stay informed and stay active in our efforts to save Alberta's great bear.

• Campaign Update - Action Grizzly Bear now based out of Edmonton, Alberta
  
• Action Grizzly Bear in the News
• Current Issue - Open season on Alberta's threatened species?
• Upcoming Events - Bear Awareness Course Postponed

But please note the campaign's new office contact information:

2nd Floor, 10008 82nd Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T6E 1Z3

Phone: 780-439-1160
Fax: 780-485-9640

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Current Issue - Open season on Alberta's threatened species?

Very soon we expect the result of last year's Grizzly Bear DNA Based Population Estimate to be released to the public. This signifies the conclusion of a 5-year study aimed at determining the number of grizzly bears in Alberta. Once these results are available, the government has committed to ordering a status review to determine if the grizzly bear should be listed as Threatened or Endangered under the Alberta Wildlife Act.

If this sounds familiar that is because we have been through this exact same process over 7 years ago. In 2002, when wildlife managers estimated there were roughly 1000 bears in Alberta, the Endangered Species Conservation Committee (ESCC) recommended protecting the grizzly as a Threatened species.

Biologists now estimate fewer than 500 grizzlies remain in Alberta, based on the DNA research published to date. With this in mind, it is hard to imagine the ESCC recommending anything but a Threatened or Endangered listing once they have completed this new status review. What remains to be seen is if the government will accept the status recommendation this time around. To list or not to list? That is the question.

However if you have followed the Alberta media lately you will know that certain hunting groups are lobbying to reinstate a spring grizzly bear hunt. It is illegal to hunt a species protected under the Wildlife Act but unfortunately, the government failed to accept the 2002 ESCC recommendation and as such, has left the door open to pose a different question; to hunt or not to hunt?

High rates of human-caused mortality are one of the primary threats facing the long-term persistence of grizzly bear in Alberta. In fact, over 90% of grizzly bear mortality in Alberta is caused by humans. Simply put, if we want grizzlies to survive we need to stop killing them.

This is not to suggest hunting is the sole cause of declining bear numbers in Alberta but it is a source of mortality that can easily be eliminated. Last year in Alberta, even with a moratorium on sport hunting, 19 grizzly bears were killed by humans. This summer at least another 7 grizzly bears have already been killed and we are only just entering the time of year with the highest rates of human-caused mortality - September, October and November.

And this is what the government should be focused on - reducing human-caused mortalities and funding and fully implementing a recovery strategy, including legally protecting the grizzly bear - not debating the merit of hunting a Threatened species, which should be a dead issue.

Due to the difficulties of confirming a group of 30+ people on such short notice, the Bear Awareness Course that was advertised in last month's Tracking BEARS has been rescheduled by the Calgary Area Outdoor Council for next spring.

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YOUR CALLS ARE URGENTLY NEEDED
or Mikey’s cruel killer may get away with murder!

While Watching TV, New Jersey Man Shoots and Kills Companion Parrot.

Terrified Mikey who was isolated in a cage and had no way to escape, was Zeglin’s innocent target.

On June 7th 2009, 67 year old Dennis Zeglin brutally shot and killed his family’s African Grey parrot with a Daisy Powerline Model 93 C02-powered BB gun. His wife called police and animal control officers were summoned to investigate.

Dennis Zeglin admitted to animal control officers that he shot Mikey in his cage because the bird "irritated" him while he was watching the NASCAR races on TV. According to reports, Zeglin had been drinking and was intoxicated when he fired the three shots that killed Mikey. Since the animal cruelty charges were filed, Zeglin has been undergoing counseling for his alcoholism according to Zeglin’s Defense Attorney, Stephen Fletcher. Fletcher also claims that Zeglin is a first time offender and has applied for an Intervention Probationary Program. This may suggest that Mikey’s cruel assailant may get nothing more than a slap on the wrist for brutally murdering an innocent, and highly intelligent creature.

Undisputed, scientifically proven evidence supports the link between violence to humans and violence to animals and we believe that Zeglin’s violent act could have easily been directed toward a human family member or their family dog.

Every year millions of captive birds suffer from abuse and neglect like Mikey.  It is estimated that the majority of captive birds suffer and die prematurely, secretly and silently behind closed doors, from horrendous abuse, malnutrition, and starvation, and live in deplorable conditions, with no hope for rescue. It is also estimated that the majority of captive birds who do survive, suffer an entire lifetime of agony and loneliness.



PLEASE DEMAND JUSTICE FOR MIKEY NOW!

Let his story remind you that millions of captive birds need your help before they endure similar tragedies.

Please call Judge Thomas Manahan and politely let him know that there is no excuse for animal abuse and urge him to sentence Zeglin to the fullest extent of the law, incarcerating Zeglin for his cruelty. Also request that Zeglin be required to undergo counseling and attend humane education classes.

Your voice must be heard before Zeglin's court hearing, which is set for September 9, 2009.

Contact Judge Thomas Manahan
RE: Dennis Zeglin
Case # 09001561
(973) 656-4050

Go to IDA's Exotic Birds Campaign site for more information on the captive bird crisis.

In Defense of Animals, located in San Rafael, Calif., is an international animal protection organization with more than 85,000 members and supporters dedicated to ending the abuse and exploitation of animals by protecting their rights and welfare. IDA's efforts include educational events, cruelty investigations, boycotts, grassroots activism, and hands-on rescue through our sanctuaries in Mississippi, Mumbai, India, and Cameroon, Africa.

In Defense of Animals is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We wel

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http://www.bigcatrescue.org/000news/0articlesbybcr/2009Expansion.htm

http://www.bigcatrescue.org/cats/captive/tigerstrucha.htm

You can help by using the form at the link below to write a letter to your CITES representatives, and let them know that you support strong tiger conservation, and you insist that they keep the Bobcat under Appendix II Protection so that they are not killed in the US for the Russian fur market.

http://www.capwiz.com/bigcatrescue/issues/alert/?alertid=13810331&type=CU
 
For more detailed information on CITES and the tiger and bobcat issues click here:  http://www.bigcatrescue.org/laws/2009/CITES.htm

http://www.bigcatrescue.org/bigcats.htm  Makes a great teaching tool online or you can buy a hard copy in our online gift shop.

You can give more without spending more by turning your everyday spending into meaningful donations with a customized Big Cat Rescue Capital One credit card.  Share your passion and donate to Big Cat Rescue with your everyday purchases. We've partnered with Capital One® Card Lab Connect to bring you our newest fundraising program, which helps us earn money doing what you do every day! Just carry one of our custom credit cards (it comes with a competitive rate and no annual fee), and 1% of purchases made with the card will be donated to Big Cat Rescue.

We'll also receive a $25 bonus donation when you make your first purchase. And not only will you be donating to the cats with each purchase you make, you'll be helping to spread the word when people see your wildly unique card, designed specifically for Big Cat Rescue.  Three custom cards are currently available featuring Cameron the lion, Cheetaro the leopard, and Shere Khan & China Doll the tigers!  What a great way to share the cats' stories every time you pull out your credit card.  Tell others too by downloading https://www.cardlabconnect.com/Big Cat Rescue

http://www.bigcatrescue.biz/servlet/the-790/Sweet-16-and-Never/Detail

email: Info@BigCatRescue.org

phone: 813 920-4130 fax 920-5924

web: http://www.BigCatRescue.org/
Text TIGER to 20222 to Donate $5 A one-time charge of $5 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Standard messaging rates and additional fees may apply. All charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. US Subscribers only.             

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  September 2009Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine  

Another Victory for Pigs in Canada
Life continues to improve for pigs in Canada. In July, PCRM announced an Advanced Trauma Life Support win for pigs in Toronto. Now, the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine announced that it too will stop using live pigs in its program and exclusively use the TraumaMan System. Save Pigs in Tennessee >


‘Town Hall’ and Capitol Hill Ads Call for Healthy School Lunches
Health care was debated heatedly across the United States in August. But at PCRM’s celebrity-hosted "town hall" for healthy school lunches, the only raised voices were cheering suggestions for vegetarian school lunches. And on PCRM ads in Washington, D.C., a smiling 8-year-old girl asked a polite question of the current administration: “President Obama’s daughters get healthy school lunches. Why don’t I?” Aug. 24 TV event > 


A Royal Visit with Negra, Queen of the Chimpanzees
It’s a long journey from Africa to Cle Elum, Wash. It was certainly a grueling trip for Negra, a 36-year-old chimpanzee who had many traumatic experiences along the way. But in Cle Elum, she found a place that—in spirit—is close to home. Last month, at the Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest, PCRM scientists met Negra as they continued their observation of the long-lasting psychological damage to chimpanzees previously used in laboratories. Two years solitary confinement >


Celebrity Chefs and New Classes Teach Plant-Based Diabetes Prevention
The new season of the TV show Top Chef just started and it’s packed with celebrity chefs. In the show’s challenges, chefs typically create high-fat, cholesterol-laden meals—like the ones that have contributed to America’s diabetes epidemic. But last month, PCRM presented its own challenge to celebrity chefs: Prepare delicious, plant-based meals that can prevent diabetes. Find a cooking class > 


Longtime Army Doctor Asks Military to End Animal Trauma Training
It doesn’t take a brain surgeon to understand that using and kil

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The Wildlife S.O.S. Post

August 2009

Dear Leigh,

In this Issue:Bear of the Month Wildlife S.O.S Bids a Tearful Farewell to Hugo Bear Education for a Better Tomorrow Monsoons Lead to Two Python Rescues in Delhi in a Week! Follow Us!

We are all mourning the loss of Hugo Bear - one of our most beloved bears at the Agra Bear Sanctuary who passed away on August 7th. He will be sorely missed by everyone as he was quite a character and probably one of the most photographed bears of Wildlife S.O.S. Visitors loved him and friends and donors gushed over him.

When he was rescued, Hugo was a mangled mess of hair and bones - he was frightened and hungry and had lost his eyesight but over time Hugo developed a dynamic personality. A personality that was larger than life, full of fun and games, enjoying his food and the enrichment provided in his enclosure. He was so energetic that at times it was difficult to remember that he was completely blind. He was like royalty among the bears at Wildlife S.O.S. centre in Agra. While we grieve,

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www.alleycat.org/NFCD

Dear Leigh,

National Feral Cat Day (NFCD) is your opportunity to help protect and improve the lives of cats across the county—and it's just around the corner!

On October 16, celebrate NFCD by reaching out to others with the message that feral cats are healthy and happy outdoors and that Trap-Neuter-Return improves cats' lives.

National Feral Cat Day is the perfect opportunity to get involved by distributing educational materials or hosting local events like workshops, fundraisers, or special spay and neuter clinic days. At www.alleycat.org/NFCD, you can read about ideas for holding a local event of your own , download the 2009 poster to hang in your veterinarian's office and other high traffic areas in your community, and participate in our “I’m an Alley Cat Ally” Photo Pledge to tell the world that you care about the lives of feral and stray cats.

Keep an eye out for this year’s poster, arriving in mailboxes soon.

With your help, we can truly make a difference in cats’ lives. You can be their voice—on National Feral Cat Day, and all year round.

Sincerely,

Becky Robinson
President

P.S. If you do not receive a poster, it means we don’t have your mailing address. Be sure to create or update your profile so that you can receive these mailings in the future.

Copyright 2009 Alley Cat Allies | 7920 Norfolk Avenue, Suite 600, Bethesda, MD 20814-2525
Click Here to unsubscribe or change your email preferences - Privacy Policy

This notice is not designed to accept or respond to email inquiries. For that reason, please do not reply to this e

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Victory For Tina, Jewel, And Maybe Queenie?

Breaking News! USDA Undersecretary Ann Wright's office has confirmed that Tina and Jewel were confiscated Thursday August 20! Stay tuned for more information!

For two years, IDA and our members have been working tirelessly on behalf of three elephants - Jewel, Tina, and Queenie - suffering in a travelling circus. IDA members have written tens of thousands of letters and e-mails to their Representatives, Senators, and the USDA.

You've made thousands of phone calls. We've held demos across the nation, wherever these poor creatures have been forced to perform their demeaning, unnatural stunts. And, with the assistance of caring people, we have documented their deteriorating condition as they traveled from city to city in the hands of their incompetent and abusive handler.

It appears our efforts have paid off. Victory seems to be very close. Click here to read more!

Exxon Mobil Pleads Guilty To Killing Migratory Birds

The New York Times reports that Exxon Mobil Corp. pleaded guilty in federal court last week to killing at least 85 protected birds, including hawks and owls, in five states. The birds died from exposure to natural gas well reserve pits and waste water storage facilities at Exxon Mobil drilling and production facilities in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming. Read the full New York Times story here.

National Lawyers Guild Publishes Guide For Animal Rights Activists

The National Lawyers Guild (NLG), with decades of experience defending and supporting activists, has just published "Operation Backfire: a Survival Guide for Environmental and Animal Rights Activists." The NLG is giving the guide away free at http://www.nlg.org/.

It's a pocket-sized booklet that features a "know-your-rights" section with advice for handling various legal issues that activists often encounter, especially those involving Constitutional rights.
 
The NLG also set up a "Green Scare Hotline" at 888-NLG-ECOL (888-654-3265) for more assistance.

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 THANKS FOR HELPING SAVE THE WESTERN GRAY WHALE
AND FOR PUTTING EXXON ON NOTICE!

Dear Leigh,

Thank you for your recent response to Pacific Environment's Action Alert demanding the CEOs of ExxonMobil, BP and Rosneft halt their harmful actions that threaten the critically endangered Western Gray Whale near Sakhalin Island, Russia.  

Thanks to your support, Pacific Environment worked with WWF to send these company CEOs a combined package of letters with the signatures of over 54,000 people!

ExxonMobil continues to be the most uncompromising of the three oil companies.  In response, we generated press stories to coincide with ExxonMobil's recent announcement of a 66% drop in quarterly profits.  Many investor news websites simultaneously featured both stories, bringing your concerns about Western Gray Whales directly to a growing number of worried ExxonMobil investors.  For example, see these articles from Scottrade, Trading Markets, and USA Today.

Meanwhile, the struggle continues to save the Western Gray Whales!  We will contact you again soon with information on further action that you can take to help protect this critically endangered population from extinction.

Continued efforts to protect the Western Gray Whale are dependent on your financial support!  With only 130 remaining Western Grays, of which only 30 are breeding females, any additional impacts from oil and gas projects pushes the population closer to extinction.  Please consider a contribution of $25 or more today to sustain this important fight.  Your donation will help us win a challenge grant from Earth Friends Wildlife Foundation, which will further increase the impact of your gift to protect Western Gray Whales!  Click here to make a secure online donation, with our thanks.

Thank you for all your support,

Doug Norlen

Policy Director

Pacific Environment


If you no longer wish to receive emails from us, please change your subscription settings at http://www.pacificenvironment.org/unsubscribe.

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Dear Leigh,

On a chilly evening last fall, a raid on a dogfight in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on the south side turned up more than 50 people, including a pregnant woman and a few juveniles, in a basement watching dogs fight a bloody battle.

This summer, young men and their pit bulls gather on hot evenings in that same neighborhood to compete much more constructively (watch the video). The owners learn positive training methods and new ways of thinking about their dogs. The pit bulls, some of whom start the classes wildly aggressive, learn to run an agility course and show off their new obedience skills. Participants shower their dogs with praise and treats and start to see their canine companions as friends instead of fighters.

The HSUS' End Dogfighting program makes the difference in Englewood and other troubled neighborhoods where dogfighting is all too common. People from the community spread the word about our "Pit Bull Training Team" and invite dogs and their owners to attend free classes.

The healthy competition in our classes has turned around many dangerous situations. Greg and his 95-pound bruiser Bolo struggled at first when Bolo tried to attack other dogs. Greg took Bolo out of the room sometimes because of his barking and lunging. Working with Bolo alongside more advanced dogs got him to settle down and make progress. Eventually, Bolo could sit calmly while other dogs wrestled in front of him -- unthinkable at the start of the session.

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USDA Moves to Confiscate Elephant Jewel

Belligerent Davenport Defies Federal Order

IDA has learned that on Saturday August 15, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) attempted to confiscate Jewel, one of three suffering and abused elephants who we have been working for over two years to rescue. The USDA temporarily aborted the confiscation attempt in the face of a defiant and uncooperative Will Davenport, the elephants' handler.

IDA members will recall that Davenport has a long history of chronic Animal Welfare Act violations including abusive and unsafe handling practices, inadequate veterinary care and negligent treatment of the elephants Tina, Jewel and Queenie. Davenport has also violated the U.S. Endangered Species Act in the illegal purchase of Tina and Jewel from the Cole Brothers Circus.

Although Davenport doesn't have a legal leg to stand on, he refused to cooperate with the confiscation and told his distorted and factually-incorrect side of the story to his local newspaper in Polk County, Texas. This newspaper appears to be sympathetic to Davenport's philosophy that the federal government is interfering with his private property rights, the elephants being his private "property."

See the story here and be sure to watch the video of Davenport - sporting a Popeye T-shirt and spouting lies - here.

IDA applauds the USDA for taking action to confiscate Jewel. We recognize this as an important step toward protecting elephants, and we hope the agency will move immediately to confiscate all three elephants and place Will Davenport behind bars where he belongs.

There are strong legal grounds for this action. Under Davenport's care, all three elephants have lost significant weight (nearly a ton between them in less than a year) and the USDA has documented their ongoing and unrelieved suffering at his hands. In addition, Tina and Jewel have been together for decades and Queenie has been with them for two years. Separating these bonded elephants, even for a short time, would cause untold and unnecessary stress and trauma. Regarding Davenport,  the AWA (section 2146(b)) provides for penalties and/or imprisonment of any person who interferes with the USDA's official duties.

Write and/or call your Congressional representatives and the USDA today. It's very important that we recognize the important step the agency is taking to rescue Jewel. Politely urge the USDA to confiscate all three elephants and send them to a sanctuary where they can get the care and attention they need to heal.

Note - we have not included a sample letter this time, as we'd like your letters to be unique, personal, and from the heart. If you don't have time to compose a letter, a quick phone call will work also!

Find your federal representatives here:

http://ida.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=electedOfficials

For the USDA, call, e-mail, or write to:

Ann Wright
Deputy Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Phone: 202-720-4256 OR 202

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Latest News from the Frontlines of Animal Welfare
August 14, 2009

1. ASPCA Asks Court to Direct Money Back to Dogs
Leona Helmsley’s wish that her wealth be used to help dogs is not being carried out by those managing her charitable trust. On behalf of our nation’s animals, the ASPCA, HSUS and Maddie’s Fund are taking the matter to court. Read more about the case... 

2. Update: Teen Indicted for Throwing Dog from Brooklyn Roof
On August 10, Fabian Henderson, the Brooklyn teen arrested by the ASPCA for throwing his Pit Bull, Oreo, from the roof of his housing project, was indicted on multiple charges. If convicted, he could face more than two years in jail.

3. ASPCA Happy Tails: Family Reunion
When this adventurous 17-year-old Burmese went wandering through NYC, ASPCA staffers jumped into action to help reunite her with her family.

4. Become a Foster Parent to Needy Animals!
If you need any convincing about how wonderful it is to foster an animal, read our new Foster Diaries for a whole new look at pet parenting!

More Articles:
5. Earn 15% Off at the ASPCA Store in Just 5 Minutes!

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Famous Wild Horse Herd In Danger Of BLM Roundup

The Pryor Mountain wild horses in Montana are the descendents of the horses brought to the Americas with the Spanish Conquistadors in 1500. One horse in particular, Cloud, and his family are perhaps the most famous wild horses in the world - having been the subject of fascinating documentaries and books. But their fame is not going to protect the herd from a drastic government round up planned to begin September 1. Read more and send an e-mail to government officials.

Huge Animal Hospital Network Bans Cosmetic Tail Docking, Ear Cropping, De-barking

Banfield, the nation's largest veterinary practice with 730 hospitals and 2,000 veterinarians, including many in PetSmart stores, announced it will stop performing cosmetic tail docking, ear cropping, or devocalization (de-barking) of dogs. We applaud Banfield's humane move, tempered only by the question "what took you so long?"

Read the USA Today article here. Read the article from Veterinary Practice News here. 

“After thoughtful consideration and reviewing medical research, we have determined it is in the best interest of the pets we treat, as well as the overall practice, to discontinue performing these unnecessary cosmetic procedures,” said Karen Faunt, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, vice president for medical quality advancement for Banfield. “It is our hope that this new medical protocol will help reduce, and eventually eliminate, these cosmetic procedures altogether.”

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recently rejected a resolution during its annual convention in Seattle, submitted by the Utah VMA, to weaken the AVMA policy opposing ear cropping and tail docking when done solely for cosmetic reasons.

IDA's Northwest Office Energizing Animal Rights Scene

Under the leadership of Matt Rossell, one of the true Energizer Bunnies of the

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Dear Leigh,

After receiving thousands of e-mails from compassionate supporters like you, Australian designer Alannah Hill has agreed to stop using rabbit fur in her collections. It takes a very strong person to admit his or her mistakes, learn from them, and move on. Alannah has shown the world her compassion and love for animals, and she is setting a great example for other designers to follow. Thank you, Alannah!

Through undercover video, PETA has discovered fur farms where animals are bludgeoned and beaten until they can be skinned alive. Workers on these farms often stomp on the necks of terrified animals after they are kept in cramped, unsanitary cages for their entire lives. Alannah has joined forward-thinking designers like Stella McCartney, Calvin Klein, Kenneth Cole, and Tommy Hilfiger in ending her support of abuse like this.

Thank you for all your action for animals!

Sincerely,

The PETA Asia-Pacific Team
Activist@PETAAsiaPacific.com

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  As regular reader of Activate for Animals, online, you are well aware of the plight of animals in labs, including dogs and cats who are obtained for use in research through pound seizure.

But the animals’ misfortune is not always apparent, and many people don’t realize the suffering associated with pound seizure. We need your help to educate others!

AAVS has created a fun and informative screen saver to use on your computer, an easy way to show others you care about animals. It's free, and all you have to do is take our online quiz.

Find our how much you know about pound seizure: the ultimate betrayal. Get all the answers correct, and you'll win our free Ban Pound Seizure screen saver. Thanks to all of the wonderful AAVS supporters who recently sent donations to help our Animalearn division fight the use of former pets in classroom labs. Your generosity helps us get our 'Dying to Learn' report, with its ready-to-go Student Tool Kit, into the right hands this summer, and helps all Animalearn's efforts to ensure humane science education. We'll keep you posted on our progress in the coming months. Thanks again!

Animal Experiments on the Rise in UK Statistics revealed by the British Home Office show that the number of animal experiments in the United Kingdom rose by 454,000, or 14 percent, to a grand total of over 3.7 million in 2008. The vast majority of animals used were mice, rats, other rodents, and fish. This is the greatest increase in animals used for medical research in the UK since 1986.

Click here to read “Drug safety testing drives steep rise in animal experiments in UK,” in the Guardian.
Sound Earth is one of over 250 companies that have met the standards of and signed on to the Leaping Bunny Program, making a strong commitment against animal testing. To further show its compassion for animals, Sound Earth has agreed to donate $1.00 from the sale of every bottle of its Body Guard Bug Repellent to the Leaping Bunny Program. To ensure that Leaping Bunny gets credit for your purchase, be sure to get your bug repellent from this special page.

To view more cruelty-free companies and order a free pocket-sized Compassionate Shopping Guide, click here.

Sign the Leaping Bunny Pledge to go Cruelty-Free here!

When you support AAVS, you become part of the first animal organization in the country founded to end the cruel and unnecessary use of animals in science. We rely entirely on our members and friends for financial support. Your contributions are used to further all of our campaigns and progr

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Latest News from the Frontlines of Animal Welfare
August 7, 2009

1. Abused Kitten Rescued—ASPCA Agents Attacked
On July 23, two ASPCA HLE Agents, responding to a case of suspected animal cruelty, were physically assaulted by the owner of a kitten whose leg had been broken and whiskers cut off. The accused perpetrator faces two counts of felony assault and one count of animal cruelty. Read more about the case... 

2. ASPCA Rescue Tails: Learning to Be a Dog Again
Timid pup Skylar, rescued during our full-scale raid of the Thyme and Sage Ranch, is learning from her new mom what it means to be loved.

3. Your Videos Wanted: Dog Days of Summer Contest
Whether sunbathing, swimming or enjoying a family BBQ—send us a video of how your pooch is spending his summer days. Top ten winners will receive an ASPCA prize pack and be featured on our website!

4. Dying Doves Rescued from NYC Park
A flock of domesticated doves, thought to have been released during a wedding, is being rescued from the dangers of a Queens, NY, park.

More Articles:
5. ASPCA Social Networks: Get Involved Now!

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Stopping seal slaughter around the world

Last week, the European Union Council of Ministers endorsed the seal product trade ban voted on in May. In response, Canada threatened a challenge at the World Trade Organization. Read more>>

Meanwhile, animal advocates are searching for ways to stop Namibia’s commercial seal slaughter, too. Read more>>

A happy first for puppies!

Recently, "Your Pet Pals" in Victoria, British Columbia became the first Canadian store to sign HSI's Puppy Friendly Pledge. By promising to sell pet supplies only, this shop is helping both to promote adoption from shelters and put puppy mills out of business. Read more>>

"The Cove" brings dolphin misery to light

Ever dreamed of swimming with dolphins? Find out why you shouldn't. The new film "The Cove" illustrates the tragedy of the Japanese dolphin drive fishery and the grim connection between the blood in the water and the captivity industry. Download our brochure and see if the movie is opening near you. Read more>>

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 New York Daily News to coverage on CNN and articles on the world's most popular blogs, including The Huffington Post and Perez Hilton, our new Ringling Bros. investigation has been capturing attention around the globe—awakening the world to the abuses that happen behind the scenes at "the saddest show on Earth!"

The shocking and eye-opening undercover video, which we released last Wednesday, shows Ringling employees as they beat and whip elephants and tigers so that they will perform "tricks," and the video has now been viewed more than 250,000 times on PETA's Web sites alone. Hundreds of thousands of people are seeing with their own eyes the beatings that Ringling's animals endure night after night, month after month, and the cruelty is undeniable.

And tens of thousands have been motivated to act because of this video. Since the release of our Ringling investigation a little over one week ago, more than 55,000 people have written to the U.S. Department of Agriculture asking that it seize Tonka and the other elephants who are beaten by Ringling with sharp bullhooks. On behalf of all animals used in circuses, I'm pleased to announce that the USDA has launched an investigation into "the saddest show on Earth."

A representative of the USDA said, "We take the protection of animals very seriously" and "We will initiate a thorough investigation and provide the findings as soon as available."

This much-needed attention and call to action against Ringling's routine beating of elephants with bullhooks is a huge step toward ending the cruelty once and for all, but there is still more that we can do. We must keep the pressure on the elephant-beating circus so that one day, Tonka and her friends can roam free in a spacious sanctuary rather than continue to live a sad, painful, and fear-ridden "life" with shackles around their legs and bullhooks dug into their skin.

Please continue to share our investigation and video with everyone you know because spreading the word (and especially the recorded proof) is one of the best ways that individuals can help fight cruelty to animals. In addition, find out when "the saddest show on Earth" is coming to a town near you, order yourself a protest sign, and join the thousands of people around the world who are calling for an end to Ringling's abuse.

To keep up to date on our campaign against Ringling and to learn the outcome of the pending lawsuit against the circus as soon as it's announced, visit RinglingBeatsAnimals.com.

Kind regards,

Ingrid E. Newkirk
President

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Latest News from the Frontlines of Animal Welfare
July 31, 2009

1. Mutilated Horse Rescued; ASPCA Offers $2,500 Reward
On June 30, a wounded filly was found roaming the Nevada desert, a portion of her flesh cut out where her brand had been. The ASPCA is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the conviction of the perpetrator. Read about the horse’s recovery... 

2. ASPCA Happy Tails: Ladies Man
You'd never guess this Pug mix lost a limb from severe neglect. Charm intact, he's living the high life with three pooch sisters.

3. Summer Sale at ASPCA Online Store—Today Thru August 5
For one week only, all apparel in the ASPCA Online Store will be 20% off the original price!

4. Rabies Alert: Are Your Pets Protected?
The ASPCA would like to remind pet parents that all dogs and outdoor cats should be vaccinated as cases of this dangerous disease increase during summer.

More Articles:
5. ASPCA Jobs of the Month

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Chimpanzee Update - Progress From Africa To Louisiana

IDA and IDA Africa come to the aid of abused chimpanzees, be they in captivity, in the wild, or in laboratories. See what IDA is doing with your donations to help chimpanzees.

Our progress has been precedent-setting. Our successes are many. IDA Africa's Sanaga-Yong Center in Cameroon is now home to nearly 70 chimpanzees who delight in their 60-acre forest sanctuary. They swing and play freely in the vines, nest happily in the trees, and doze peacefully in the warm tropical sun.

In the U.S., years of documentation, undercover investigations, and exposés of abuse, fraud, and waste are finally opening the door to significant change. Click here to read all about it, and see how you can help!

IDA Exposes Another L.A. Zoo Cover-up - USDA Fines Zoo In Death Of Elephant Gita

This week, IDA again exposed the Los Angeles Zoo’s attempt to hide the truth, revealing that it paid a paltry USDA penalty of $3,281 for its failure to provide adequate veterinary care to the elephant Gita, as she lay dying overnight in June 2006. Gita's memorial is pictured, left. The fine also included the death of a chimpanzee in July 2006, making the amount even more shockingly scant. Click here to read the full story and see how you can help.

New Updates On Elephants Tina, Jewel, Queenie

The dangerously deteriorating health of these elephants calls for immediate action, yet the USDA still has not removed them from the hands of their abusive and incompetent circus trainer. Tina, Jewel and Queenie need your help now! Please read the latest newsabout them and find out how you can take action to save the lives of these suffering elephants!

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Dear Leigh,

Our investigation into the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is making waves around the world! And now that we've exposed the horrible treatment that elephants and tigers receive at the hands of Ringling, PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange will be on "Issues With Jane Velez-Mitchell" tonight to discuss the details surrounding this historic investigation. Don't miss it! 

    What: PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange discusses our investigation into Ringling's abuse of animals.
    When: Tonight, Friday July 24, 7 p.m. EST (and again from 9-10 p.m. and 12 midnight-1 a.m.)
    Where: CNN Headline News (HLN)

For more information about the investigation, please visit RinglingBeatsAnimals.com.

Thanks for watching tonight and for all that you do for animals abused for entertainment.

Sincerely,

PETA

Click to update your e-mail preferences or to unsubscribe.

This e-mail was sent by PETA, 501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510 USA.
 

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Latest News from the Frontlines of Animal Welfare
July 24, 2009

1. Vick Released from Federal Custody—ASPCA President Speaks Out
On Monday, July 20, former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, once the highest-paid player in the National Football League (NFL), was released from federal custody after serving a 23-month sentence for dog fighting. In light of the 2007 conviction and Vick's indefinite suspension from the NFL, the ASPCA's President shares his unique perspective on Vick’s future... 

2. ASPCA Happy Tails: Name in Lights
Bella was just a small-town pup who found herself thrust into the big-city spotlight. Now she has a comfy, caring home to call her own.

3. Teen Who Killed Kitten to Serve One Year in Prison
Cheyenne Cherry, the 17-year-old Bronx, NY, resident who pled guilty to leaving her former roommate’s kitten to burn to death in an oven, will serve one year in jail and is prohibited from having a pet for the next three years.

4. ASPCA Health Alert: Help Prevent Your Pet's Allergies
According to the ASPCA, more than 20 percent of pets may suffer from some sort of allergy. Find out expert solutions to summertime itching and scratching.

More Articles:
5. Legislative Victory: CT Passes Pet Store-Related Bill
6. ASPCA Offers Nation’s First Animal Cruelty CSI Workshop

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July 24, 2009

JOIN PETA'S ACTION TEAM | SEND TO A FRIEND | DONATE NOW

Never be stuck at the store again wondering which products are cruelty-free—get the ultimate cruelty-free shopping guide: the "Be Nice to Bunnies" iPhone app!
—Mylie

Win the Vegan Brunch Cookbook!
Vegan Brunch: Homestyle Recipes Worth Waking Up for—From Asparagus Omelets to Pumpkin Pancakes is the new cookbook by bestselling author, chef, and star of The Post Punk Kitchen Isa Chandra Moskowitz. Enter to win a copy now!

Get the Cruelty-Free Shopping iPhone App!
Ever been stuck at the store wondering if a product is cruelty-free? Well, iPhone users, your problem is now solved! Click here to learn more and get the "Be Nice to Bunnies" app today.

Five Tips for a Fun and Animal-Friendly Vacation
You don't have to leave your

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Summer eNews

NEAVS president and sanctuary leaders prepare for Congressional Briefing. L to R, Dr. Linda Brent (Chimp Haven), Gloria Grow, (Fauna), and Dr. Theo Capaldo.

NEAVS/Project R&R on Capitol Hill

Following the reintroduction of the Great Ape Protection Act (H.R. 1326), NEAVS/Project R&R joined Fauna Foundation, Chimp Haven, and HSUS for a Congressional briefing (June 25th), which brought the plight of chimpanzees in U.S. labs front and center to Capitol Hill.  The panel included two of the bill’s lead sponsors, Rep. Roscoe Bartlett (R-MD) and Ashley Wilson on behalf of Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-NY).  The presentations made their mark, resulting in an increase in cosponsors.  Read more...

Be a 'star' for chimpanzees this summer!  Reach out to family and friends, and ask them to contact their representative. 

Hollywood Stars Support Great Ape Protection Act

The stars are shining for the Great Ape Protection Act (H.R. 1326) thanks to Hollywood's elite, who are signing Project R&R’s petitions and getting active!  Most recently, Bones star Emily Deschanel personally wrote a letter to Rep. Waxman – chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, where the bill sits – and asked him to support the bill.

A sincere THANK YOU to Ms. Deschanel and other celebrities who are using their public voice to help end research on chimpanzees!

As of today, 61 representatives have signed onto the Great Ape Protection Act  as cosponsors!

 Project R&R remains committed to the immediate release of all the elders to sanctuary.

Project R&R Advisory Board Requests Immediate Release of Elders

June's eAlert, sent to coincide with Wenka's 55th birthday, generated much interest in her well-being. Thank you to everyone who wrote to Emory University President Dr. James W. Wagner,

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Headlines

• An opportunity for science-based change in the Arctic
• Support our Cause on Facebook; Follow us on Twitter
  

An opportunity for science-based change in the Arctic


For eight years, the Bush environmental policy was to disregard environmental policy. With a nod and a wink from the White House, industry forged ahead with complete disregard for the environmental impacts of destructive development. Scientific studies were routinely ignored or, in some cases, never conducted.

The new Obama administration now has an important opportunity to break from the past regarding the value and place of science. As water temperatures rise due to climate change, many of the commercially fished species in the Bering Sea are expected to expand their range into the Arctic Ocean, one of the least studied areas in the world. A North Pacific fishery management group recently recommended that the Arctic be closed to new commercial fishing until it can be shown that such activities would not impact the health of the ecosystem.

The Arctic is home to iconic species like polar bears, walruses, whales, seabirds and other animals. Native people depend on a healthy sea for their subsistence way of life. All are struggling to adapt to a changing Arctic – do we really want more development without knowing the consequences?

We need a comprehensive plan for the Arctic based on sound science. Let's take a time out on Arctic industrialization until we can study the environmental impact.

Click here to submit a public comment to the National Marine Fisheries Service - environmental impacts should be studied before decisions are made.
 

Help support all of Alaska Wilderness League's campaigns.  Click here or on the picture above to donate today!

Whether it's setting your search engine to goodsearch.com, having your company match your donation or snagging our new baseball hat, here are easy ways help benefit Alaska Wilderness League campaigns.

Support our Cause on Facebook; Follow us on Twitter

Are you into online social networking? If you use of facebook or twitter, now there's a whole new way for you to support the League. Here's how you can help:

• Twitter: Follow the League on twitter as we share important action opportunities, breaking news and fun Alaska-related items from around the internet at twitter.com/alaskawild
  
• Facebook Cause: Support our Cause on facebook,

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Dear Dusty,

Victory for Great Lakes wolves!

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Food Inc: Michael Pollan and Friends Reveal the Food Industry's Darkest Secrets
By Tara Lohan, AlterNet
The new film Food Inc. is a shocking look at the health, human rights and the environmental nightmare that lands on our plate each meal. Read more »

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Major parties unite in call for an end to the use of animals in testing household products

The BUAV, the UK’s leading organisation campaigning to end animal experiments, welcomes the announcements made by the Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Green parties to pledge to include a ban on the testing of household products on animals in their manifestos for the next election. The announcements were made at a BUAV Parliamentary Reception in Westminster on Tuesday 2June.

The announcements follow a high profile political and public campaign by the BUAV as part of its Clean Up Cruelty campaign. The campaign aims to eliminate the cruel and unnecessary use of animals in the testing of the ingredients for household products such as washing-up liquid, bathroom cleaner, floor polish and air fresheners.

Major high street retailers are increasingly responding to public concern about this issue and signing up to the BUAV’s Humane Household Product Standard (HHP – the only internationally recognised scheme that enables consumers to easily identify and purchase household products whose ingredients have not been tested on animals. Already, all household products made by the Co-operative and Marks and Spencer have been approved under the HHPS. This clearly illustrates that it is unnecessary to test on animals to manufacture and sell safe and effective household products.

In 1997 the UK government made a small amendment to policy which instantly saved thousands of animals from suffering in needless cosmetics testing.  The Clean up Cruelty campaign aims to do the same for household products.

Ian Cawsey, MP said: “I have been asked by Gordon Brown to look at all aspects of animal welfare policy and I am convinced that the ban we introduced on testing cosmetics on animals can be extended to cover household products. It will be central to my report to the Prime Minister and will be widely supported in the Labour Party to be in our manifesto for the next election.”

Andrew Rosindell, MP said: “Animal testing is one of the most significant and controversial areas of the animal welfare debate. It is crucial that, step by step, we make concerted efforts to reduce the numbers of animals used and the number of procedures undertaken.

“Following the successful ban on testing for cosmetic products, we must now look to see where we can extend this further. We are pleased to support the BUAV's Clean up Cruelty campaign and it is the Conservative Party’s view that we are now in a realistic position to ban the use of animals in testing on household products.

“This is the first step in the Conservative approach to continually reducing animal experimentation, there is still much ground to cover, and we will continue to press the case for greater emphasis on development into alternative methods of testing.”

Roger Williams, MP said: “The Liberal Democrats have had a long held belief that it is totally unnecessary to use animals for the testing of household goods and I am happy to support

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“The British are a nation of animal lovers and the Government should reflect that by implementing steps that will lead to the eventual ban of unnecessary testing on animals. This has already happened with cosmetics and I see no reason why similar moves should not be made in the case of household goods.”

Caroline Lucas, MEP said: “The Green Party has pledged to continue campaigning to end the cruelty inflicted upon animals in the name of ‘safety’ and it is certainly timely for the progress that has been made with regard to cosmetics testing to be mirrored, and improved upon, with regard to household products.

“The Green Party fully supports BUAV’s campaign for a total ban on all testing of household products and I will be doing my utmost to press for a ban across Europe, as well as in this country.”

Michelle Thew, Chief Executive of the BUAV said: “After many years of campaigning on this important issue, the BUAV is delighted to be working in collaboration with the four main political parties to bring an end to the use of animals in the cruel and unnecessary testing of household products.”

ENDS

The reception was hosted by Liberal Democrat, Annette Brooke MP (Mid Dorset and Poole)

For more information please contact the BUAV media office 020 7619 6978; after hours, 07850 510 955 or email erin.seymour@buav.org.

For a list of BUAV approved products please visit www.gocrueltyfree.org.

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Road to Redemption?

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Saturday, May 23rd 2009, 4:00 AM
Glen Wild Rescue founder Liz Keller shows teen at an upstate juvenile
facility how to train a dog to sit. The youths are participating in a
program to rehabilitate abused shelter dogs.

[Photo] Glen Wild Rescue founder Liz Keller shows teen at an upstate
juvenile facility how to train a dog to sit. The youths are participating
in a program to rehabilitate abused shelter dogs.

When Michael Vick was arrested last year for running a dogfighting ring,
15-year-old Orlando didn't think what the former NFL star had done was
such a big deal. After all, pit bull fighting is a popular sport around
the teen's Bronx neighborhood.

But Orlando's recent work training abused shelter dogs at an upstate
juvenile justice facility has helped the troubled youth see that every
animal deserves respect and a shot at a great life.

"Now I know it's a harmful thing, and it breaks my heart," said Orlando,
who is currently a resident at the Sgt. Henry Johnson Youth Leadership
Academy, located in upstate South Kortright.

Orlando is one of 15 New York City boys between 13 and 18 who participate
in a new therapeutic program at the limited-security facility that pairs
each kid with a former shelter dog.

The goal of the year-old program, a collaborative effort between the Youth
Leadership Academy and the Glen Wild Animal Rescue, a member of the
Mayor's Alliance for N.Y.C.'s Animals, is to rehabilitate dogs that have
been deemed unadoptable so they can find a new home.

For the young residents, working with the dogs helps them deal with
feelings of isolation and depression, instills a sense of accomplishment
and pride, and offers them a friend to talk to.

Glen Wild Rescue founder Liz Keller pulls the dogs, mostly pit bulls, from
NYC Animal Care & Control shelters, where she formerly worked as a
manager. Once they are healthy and acclimated to their new home, the dogs
are ready to be brought to the Youth Leadership Academy.

Every Wednesday, Keller teaches the cadets - some of whom have never even
touched a dog - how to train the dogs using positive reinforcement methods
under the leadership of youth counselor Stephen Dutcher.

So far, Orlando has taught his partner, Bo, a hound mix, to sit, stay,
heel and give a high-five. He rewards Bo with a treat and some love, and
the team begins and ends every training session by rolling around in the
grass at the facility, which is situated among rolling hills, next to a
farm with cows, bulls and other animals the city kids have never seen.

The kids also get to see firsthand the effects of neglect.

They recently met Courage and Kallie, two sweet and loving pit bulls that
are damaged for life by dogfighting and cannot be placed for adoption.

Youth Leadership Academy psychologist Sue Newman says the program is a
win-win situation.

"While we're helping the youth address their needs, the youth are helping
the dogs in addressing theirs," she said. Many of the kids identify with
abuse and learn through the dogs that "if you give love, you get love."

Many of the dogs have been adopted. Director Ruben Reyes hopes that some
of the teens will be inspired to work with animals when they return home
and believes the program opens them up to new career possibilities.

Meanwhile, Keller hopes to expand the program so more needy kids and
animals can benefit.

Her plans include hiring a coordinator in the city who can mentor kids and
connect them with volunteer and job opportunities working with shelter
animals.

Donations can be sent to Glen Wild Rescue, P.O. Box 75, South Kortright,
NY 13842, or through the group's Web site, www.glenwildanimalrescue.org.

amy.sacks1@gmail.com

http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/2009/05/23/2009-05-23_a_fighting_chance_troubled_kids_help_abused_dogs_and_learn_about_love.html

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