Lawmakers in the Catalonia Area of Spain Vote to Outlaw / Ban Bullfighting: First Step in Ending this Unnecessary, Cruel Blood Sport

Always nice to have good news! As you’ll read below this is fairly limited. But, what it does say (looking at the positive side) is that cultural norms can be broken, even some as engrained as bullfighting (aka – bullkilling). Let this be a lesson in the possibility of things changing, and let’s hope this expands beyond this region.

Article:

Bullfighting BAN in Spain: Catalonia Becomes First Major Region to Ban Tradition

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/28/bullfighting-ban-in-spain_n_661787.html

JOSEPH WILSON and DANIEL WOOLLS | 07/28/10 08:40 AM | AP

Bullfighting Ban In Spain Catalonia

BARCELONA, Spain — Lawmakers in Catalonia outlawed bullfighting Wednesday, making it Spain's first major region to ban the deadly, centuries-old ballet between matador and beast after heated debate that pitted animal rights against a pillar of traditional culture.

Cheers broke out in the local 135-seat legislature after the speaker announced the ban had passed 68-to-55 with nine abstentions. The ban will take effect in 2012 in the northeastern coastal region whose capital is Barcelona.

Catalonia is a powerful, wealthy area with its own language and culture and a large degree of self-rule. Many in Spain have seen the pressure here for a bullfighting ban as a further bid by Catalonia to stand out from the rest of the country.

The practical effect of the ban will be limited: Catalonia has only one functioning bullring, in Barcelona, while another disused one is being turned into a shopping mall. It stages 15 fights a year which are rarely sold out, out of a nationwide total of roughly 1,000 bouts per season.

Still, bullfighting buffs and Spanish conservatives have taken the drama very seriously, seeing a stinging anti-Spanish rebuke in the grass roots, anti-bullfighting drive which started in the region last year.

But Joan Puigcercos, a lawmaker from a Catalan pro-independence party, insisted this was not about politics or national identity but rather "the suffering of the animal. That is the question, nothing more."

He said that even though attendance at bullfights is on the decline in Spain it would be morally wrong to sit back and just let the Spanish national pastime die a natural death.

However, the Catalan regional president, Jose Montilla, said Catalonia should have done just that – let social customs evolve to the point where bullfighting would vanish on its own, rather than legislate an end to it and deny people's right to choose whether to go the ring.

"I voted against the ban because I believe in freedom," Montilla said.

The result will energize animal rights groups bent on seeking bans in other regions of Spain.

"The suffering of animals in the Catalan bullrings has been abolished once and for all. It has created a precedent we hope will be replicated by other democratic Parliaments internationally, in those regions and countries where such cruel bullfights are still allowed," said Leonardo Anselmi of PROU, the animal rights groups whose signature-collecting campaign late last year forced Catalonia's Parliament to debate and vote.

Bullfighting is also popular in Mexico, parts of South America, southern France and Portugal.

The center-right Popular Party, which is fervent about the idea of Spain as a unified country run from Madrid – and also supports bullfighting – said it will fight back against the ban here.

It will press both chambers of the Spanish Parliament to pass a law giving bullfighting a protected status that will bar regions from outlawing it, said Alicia Sanchez-Camacho, president of the party's Catalan branch.

In the Madrid region, animal rights activists recently presented more than 50,000 signatures as part of a petition to force a similar debate and vote. However, there they face a tougher battle because the Madrid regional parliament is controlled by conservatives who have declared Spain's 'fiesta nacional' to be part of Madrid's cultural heritage.

The first Spanish region to outlaw bullfighting was the Canary Islands, in 1991. But fights were never that popular there and when the ban took effect there had not been a bullfight for seven years. That makes the Catalonia vote a much more potent case, even if bullfighting is not as popular there as it is in Madrid or down south in Andalusia.

Thanks to BP and the Financial Havoc Caused by them in Louisiana, Many Family Cats, Dogs, etc. Have Been Abandoned: Here’s How You Can Help

To immediately see what you can do to help, visit the website for the Louisiana SPCA at http://la-spca.org/Page.aspx?pid=509 which is the link the story below sends people to.

Or, as stated at their site, “If you would like to contribute by check, please make check payable to LA/SPCA (Disaster Relief) and mail to: 1700 Mardi Gras Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70114” http://la-spca.org/Page.aspx?pid=509

Here is the first paragraph from the Louisiana SPCA that explains their situation.

"The BP/Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill on April 21, 2010 has had a devastating effect on residents from the coastal parishes of Southeast Louisiana. Families are struggling to meet basic needs and as a result Animal Shelters have experienced an increase in owner’s relinquishing their pets. Knowing the physical and mental health benefits of having pets as well as the negative impact of relinquishing a family pet; this program aims to provide short term support for families in jeopardy of relinquishing their pet."

If you would like to contribute by check, please make check payable to LA/SPCA (Disaster Relief) and mail to: 1700 Mardi Gras Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70114

Article:

Oil Spill: Gulf Pets Abandoned As Owners Can No Longer Afford To Care For Their Animals (VIDEO)

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/15/oil-spill-gulf-pets-aband_n_647663.html?fbwall

Huffington Post | Travis Walter Donovan Posted: 07-15-10 01:33 PM

When people think of the animals affected by the oil spill, tragic images of crude-coated sea turtles and pelicans come to mind. The unseen animal victims of the oil spill are the hundreds of Gulf pets that are overflowing area animal shelters, as their owners -- left unemployed by the BP oil spill -- are forced to give them up, unable to afford caring for them.

CNN reports from Louisiana, showing the heartbreaking scene of countless puppies and kittens torn from their families, and facing euthanasia if homes are not found. The Louisiana SPCA is even forced to send animals to other states, as there just isn't enough room to house all of the orphaned pets.

While the SPCA recently set up a donation-based fund to support out-of-work fisherman with pet food and veterinary care , they still don't have enough money to help everyone. Ana Zorilla of the SPCA thinks that BP should pay to support pets that are being forced out of their homes as a consequence of the oil spill. For families already confronted with the loss of their livelihood and struggling to support themselves as a result, having to say goodbye to the family pet is just "one more blow on top of everything else," she says.

GO HERE - http://la-spca.org/Page.aspx?pid=509 to help Gulf pets stay with their families. - http://la-spca.org/Page.aspx?pid=509

Help The Prairie Dog Coalition to be Able to Relocate Prairie Dogs (the Most Abused Wild Animal in the West) Away from Danger to Protected Zones

I speak from experience as I live in an area where I have seen Prairie Dogs killed at astonishing rates. I’ve seen them poisoned, shot, sucked up in a ridiculous vacuum, and, believe it or not, bulldozed with babies right in the holes.

So, please read this article to see what you can do to help with relocation.

You can either go directly to the site for The Prairie Dog Coalition at http://www.prairiedogcoalition.org/ or to the site that this article came from and make a donation- https://shop.theanimalrescuesite.com/store/item.do?siteId=310&itemId=43145&origin=ARS_FACE_FAN_ADGROUP_LINK_PRAIRIEDOGS

BY THE WAY – I PERSONALLY KNOW MANY OF THE PEOPLE RUNNING THE PRAIRIE DOG COALITION. I PERSONALLY VOUCH FOR THE INTEGRITY OF EACH OF THEM!!!

Article:

Help relocate prairie dogs away from danger into protected zones, bolstering the native ecosystem of the Great Plains.

https://shop.theanimalrescuesite.com/store/item.do?siteId=310&itemId=43145&origin=ARS_FACE_FAN_ADGROUP_LINK_PRAIRIEDOGS

"Nine different wildlife species depend on the prairie dog and their habitat for their survival. The prairie dog is a critical component to healthy North American grasslands." ~ Dr. Jane Goodall

Each year in the U.S., tens of thousands of prairie dogs lose their lives to poisoning and traps, urban development, non-native disease, or shooting contests.

The Prairie Dog Coalition works to implement non-lethal prairie dog management techniques throughout their range.

First, the prairie dogs are humanely trapped when exiting their burrows, and relocated in kennels to either a holding facility or directly into a new burrow, complete with a holding cap for a slow release into its new home. During the transfer, the prairie dogs are given health and wellness checks, receive any necessary vet care, and are amply fed. Prairie dogs are kept with their families. Colonies number 1,000 prairie dogs at the most, and are moved in batches over the course of a few months' time.

The new burrows, located in protected areas where the prairie dogs will not be hunted or poisoned, are either preexisting abandoned burrows that have been restored, or new burrows created with nest boxes and drain pipes about 4 feet underground. After the prairie dogs are released, the burrow is capped with a temporary holding cage (a rabbit hutch!). The hutch stays over the top of the burrow for 3 to 5 days so the prairie dogs can safely acclimate to their new home. The hutches are stocked with moist foods, and are shaded and predator-safe. Once the hutch is removed, the prairie dogs are free to run around their new habitat, dig all they want, and enjoy their new, safe homes!

Your donation through this Gift That Gives More™ feeds a group of four prairie dogs for an entire week during their relocation to a new colony location. Relocating the prairie dogs saves them from falling victim to shooting contests, traps, poison, and urban development.

After making your donation, you will receive an automated e-mail with a link to a full-color certificate of acknowledgment that you may print and frame for display or gift-giving. Adobe Acrobat Reader, or equivalent .pdf viewing program, is required to open the file. The certificate makes a great "instant" gift for an honored colleague, family member or friend.

Please note: Your donation is tax-deductible in the U.S.A., and you will receive a receipt from GreaterGood.org for your taxes. 100% of this gift goes as a grant to The Prairie Dog Coalition as part of The Fund for Animals' funding commitment. GreaterGood Network stores do not receive any profit from the sale of this Gift That Gives More™; we bring it to you in the spirit of the greater good. GreaterGood.org has ultimate authority and discretion with regard to the distribution of its funds. All expenditures made are consistent with the exempt purposes of GreaterGood.org.

First Dog-Fighting DNA Database Created: Will Help Identify Victims and Perpetrators of Such Crimes as Dog Fighting

Better run this again on anyone even near Michael Vick.

What a brilliant and necessary program. As stated in the article below, this will “…help criminal investigators piece together an abused animal’s history by establishing ties among breeders, owners, pit operators and the animals themselves.”

“Called the Canine Codis, or Combined DNA Index System, the database is similar to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s digital archive containing the DNA profiles of criminal offenders. Scientists say that by swabbing the inner cheek of a dog, they will be able to determine whether the animal comes from one of several known dog-fighting bloodlines.”

Article:

Effort Uses Dogs’ DNA to Track Their Abusers

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/27/science/27dna.html?_r=3

By MALCOLM GAY

Published: June 25, 2010

ST. LOUIS — Scientists and animal rights advocates have enlisted DNA evidence to do for man’s best friend what the judicial system has long done for human crime victims. They have created the country’s first dog-fighting DNA database, which they say will help criminal investigators piece together an abused animal’s history by establishing ties among breeders, owners, pit operators and the animals themselves.

Mark Katzman

The country's first dog-fighting DNA database contains samples from victims like Reggie, a pit bull recovered in a 2009 raid, and helps establish ties among breeders, owners and pit operators.

Called the Canine Codis, or Combined DNA Index System, the database is similar to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s digital archive containing the DNA profiles of criminal offenders. Scientists say that by swabbing the inner cheek of a dog, they will be able to determine whether the animal comes from one of several known dog-fighting bloodlines.

“People are not generally going to the pound and buying pit bulls to fight — these dogs are from established bloodlines,” said Tim Rickey, senior director of field investigations and response for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. “And if a suspected dog fighter’s animal matches one of those bloodlines, that would be a key piece of evidence.”

The database, a joint effort by the A.S.P.C.A., the Louisiana S.P.C.A., the Humane Society of Missouri and researchers at the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory at the University of California, Davis, was developed during an investigation last July that resulted in 26 arrests and the seizure of more than 400 dogs. The investigation, which stretched across seven states, from Iowa to Texas, resulted in the largest dog-fighting raid in United States history, the authorities said.

“We ran the DNA to see if we could connect the different crime scenes and 400 different dogs, which we were able to do,” said Dr. Melinda Merck, a forensic veterinarian for the A.S.P.C.A. “A lot of times defendants will claim not only that they are not dog fighting, but also that they’re just breeding and they don’t know each other.”

The DNA showed otherwise, indicating that many of the dogs were related. The July raids have yielded at least 17 guilty pleas, and while the DNA evidence did not conclusively prove a relationship among defendants, it certainly suggested one. Investigators caution, however, that DNA evidence alone will rarely make a case, though many juries have come to expect it.

“There is definitely a C.S.I. effect,” Dr. Merck said. “Juries want to know that if you have evidence you’ve run every possible test. The DNA is just one more tool in our kit that can bolster our cases.” She added, “I do think it’s something that is going to make the dog-fighting world very nervous.”

Illegal in all 50 states, dog fighting gained national attention in 2007 when Michael Vick, then the star quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, pleaded guilty to federal dog-fighting conspiracy charges and went on to serve 21 months in prison.

Investigators say the multimillion-dollar industry is often associated with other illicit activities like drug trafficking and gambling. But the real money, they say, comes from breeding the animals, which can fetch up to $50,000 for a champion fighter.

“There’s a lot of money that’s made on the fight purses and the side wagering, but the goal for these dog fighters is to breed a champion or a grand champion,” Mr. Rickey said. “It’s not uncommon to get $5,000 for a puppy. Over a dog’s lifespan, that can be in the tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

Researchers say the database, which contains the genetic profiles of nearly 400 of the dogs recovered in the raid, will become more useful as it grows.

Beth Wictum, who directs the forensic unit at the University of California, Davis, where the database is stored, hopes to “identify other lineages that are in the West.”

Investigators add that the database may also prove useful in forensic investigations of blood samples found at a dog-fighting site, allowing them to establish the presence of a particular dog.

“One of the challenges in a lot of these fighting pits is that the losing dogs are often executed and dumped along the side of the road somewhere,” Mr. Rickey said. “This database may provide a useful tool for tracking down where the animal was bred, and maybe the owner.”

Nearly 250 of the animals recovered during the July 2009 raid have been rehabilitated and are now pets or service and therapy dogs.

“These animals were horribly mutilated — missing ears, missing eyes, missing parts of their legs,” said Jeane Jae, a spokeswoman for the Humane Society of Missouri, which housed the animals that contributed to the database. “But when given a choice, many will choose not to fight — that’s an animal that’s capable of rehabilitation.”

One such animal, a brown and white pit bull that now goes by the name Reggie, still bears a web of fight scars across his face. The dog cowers at the sound of cheering crowds, which his owner, Gale Frey, believes he associates with the roar of the fight pit.

Nevertheless, Ms. Frey says, Reggie has made great strides and is being trained to work as a therapy dog in St. Louis-area hospitals.

“We’re moving forward,” said Ms. Frey, who runs Phoenix Pack, a nonprofit dog rescue service in St. Louis. “The pit’s in the past.”

Book Review: On Their Own Terms: Bringing Animal Rights Philosophy Down to Earth – by Lee Hall

Saw this book reviewed on a site I follow. Sounds like a great and important read as I’ve always believed this movement needs to constantly reassess the course of action.

Article:

Book Review: On Their Own Terms: Bringing Animal Rights Philosophy Down to Earth

http://blogs.standard.net/2010/07/book-review-on-their-own-terms-bringing-animal-rights-philosophy-down-to-earth/

by Catherine Burt - Jul 14th, 2010

On Their Own Terms: Bringing Animal Rights Philosophy Down to Earth is the newest book by Lee Hall, Vice President of Legal Affairs for Friends of Animals. This book has two very simple, very straightforward central themes, which I love, and which make it distinct from other AR books I’ve read.

One: The world does not revolve around us.

Two: The earth is a finite space, with finite land mass, and finite resources.

Rationally, Animal Rights falls into place very easily for anyone who understands and accepts these two ideas. I think most people would agree that it would be outright silly not to accept them.

And yet, throughout the ages, humanity has behaved as though the world not only revolves around us, but also, as if it has infinite resources. The effects of that behavior are evident, as we watch the news and see the environmental devastation all around us – oil spills, air-quality alerts, toxins in our waterways, accelerated extinction of species, and more. We know that we are poisoning the earth by our own activities, and that we urgently need to mesh the way we live, with what we understand about the earth’s declining ability to support life. Nature is making the rules – clearly, it doesn’t revolve around us.

In the AR movement, we also urgently need to mesh that understanding with our advocacy. Since humans are the dominant force on earth, we do need to speak out – but not for animals so much as against that very domination of them. Can we relinquish our control over wild habitats and free-living beings? Can we simply allow nature to make the rules for animals, instead of continually foisting our dominion over them? That will require a good deal of stepping back for many of us, and a little more stepping forward for others. After all, we are the ones doing the most speaking on behalf of animals.

Advocates may also forget that the earth is a finite space. Groups that lobby for industrial animals to be kept in larger spaces or on pasture, will often simultaneously protest the hunting and removal of wild animals from wild spaces. But these two causes are actually in direct conflict with each other, on a finite landmass, with an ever-growing human and domestic animal population.

To add to the confusion, words like “welfare” and “welfarism” are increasingly being misused in AR dialog. With so many ideas and groups working in advocacy, we shouldn’t be too surprised when confusion about our goals and methods arise.

In On Their Own Terms: Bringing Animal Rights Philosophy Down to Earth, Lee Hall cuts through the jargon, and is once again presenting whole solutions to underlying problems. This time not only in animal advocacy, but for a world that desperately needs to heal from our unrestrained exploitation of it.

And while we may expect to be guilted, grossed out, or otherwise have our senses assaulted reading an AR book, those are conspicuously missing. In their place, we have a practical and yes – down to earth – discussion about respecting the right of animals to live without interference from humans. Included is a detailed analysis of current thinking from Peter Singer, Tom Regan, and Gary Francione, and new insights which, within the context of a finite world that doesn’t revolve around us, chart the most direct course for reaching AR goals.

This is a book not to be missed by anyone who is curious about what Animal Rights is really all about, as well as those who are already involved in advocacy.

Topics include:

Defining animal welfare vs. animal husbandry/handling vs. animal rights

The problem of domestication and the breeding of pets

The value of vegan cooking as activism

Why environmentalism is crucial to AR

The use of graphic videos and photos in advocacy

Discerning the effectiveness of advocacy campaigns

How to write good advocacy material

Determining your own best Animal Rights theory

Don’t be an Idiot and Leave Dogs or Cats in Hot Cars: One Dog Left In Hot Car Lucky and Honks For Help

Yep, believe it or not, many people still think it’s OK to leave a dog or cat (or any life form) in a hot car. Anyway, don’t be dumb and do that. Here is a story of a dog smart enough to actually get out of it.

http://www.wptz.com/irresistible/24208310/detail.html

Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety (PUPS) Act in Congress: Bring All Commercial Dog Breeders Under Federal Oversight

Need I say more. Very simple interface to help you contact those in Washingtion. You know me…I’m not saying it’s going to work….but it’s worth a try!

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/904/214/828?z00m=19863910

Shocking News: 7 Horses Die in Round Up On Public Lands Performed for BP (YES, BP) and a Pipeline. Fear and Heat Lead to Cruel Deaths for BP Profit

In our latest “no freaking way” segment, we are sorry to have to bring this horrible and disturbing news to you even as BP is ruining the Gulf.

We wrote last week about the wild horse round up in Nevada. Termed the "Tuscarora gather" (in Owyhee and Rock Creek) everyone speculated that this is due to the BLM giving away public land for profit and to corporation. Of course, they lied and said it is not, but the truth has now come to light.

Though we knew the truth, we never would have guessed that this is being done for the benefit of BP!

This video article - http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/bestoftv/2010/07/14/jvm.wild.horses.gas.line.hln.html - proves just why the wild horse round up in Nevada is occurring.

In addition to the cruelty evident (foals just days old running scared), as you’ll see in this video, it is coming to light that the BLM is doing this to clear land for a pipeline to be used by BP! I know, we can’t believe it either. Sadly, once again, BP is more important than life itself.

As you’ll also see in the video, BP has admitted that this is the case. So again, a British company, one that caused the largest ecological disaster in history, is still receiving preferential treatment over the interests of American citizens.

This story also sadly states that over 36K wild horses are in BLM holding pens.

Again, this disturbing story can be viewed at http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/bestoftv/2010/07/14/jvm.wild.horses.gas.line.hln.html

Large Amount of Dogs to be Killed at Kaplan Pound in the Vermilion Parish in South Louisiana: Can You Help?

Saw this through a Facebook group I follow - "Supporting Animals in Kaplan Pound" located at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=132613693437577. I know that most shelters in the country need help. But, this appears to be a large amount of dogs that will be killed. If you live down there or know anyone who does, please consider adopting. Please read below to see what you can do.

Here is a photo gallery of the dogs who need adopting. http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=14422&id=100000662675209

Here is the message I received and how you can help:

These pets are at the Kaplan pound, Vermilion Parish, in South Louisiana. There may be other unlisted dogs available; ask.

All dogs in the pound should be considered URGENT - this is a high kill gassing shelter which usually adheres to its 4 day hold policy.
.
Only 501 (c)3 rescue groups can take dogs from the pound.
Phone: 337-643-3160 Fax: 337- 643-3161

It is possible to adopt a dog (or cat) through the local rescue group who supply the courtesy postings for the pound. Please go to the following application form and fill it in if there is a particular dog you want: http://members.petfinder.com/~LA26/dog_applicationCGI.htm

Further information is available through the Facebook group "Supporting Animals in Kaplan Pound" http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=132613693437577

The Animal Rights 2010 National Conference Starting Soon – July 15th – 20th

What else can I say but go!

To learn more, visit their website at: http://www.arconference.org/

"Twilight" Saga Star Ashley Greene Wins Animal Rights Award for Her Support of Cruelty Free Cosmetics

I’ve always said that celebrities have the greatest impact when helping others see the legitimacy in animal rights.

Article:

Ashley Greene Lands PETA Awards for Her Kind Choice

http://www.aceshowbiz.com/news/view/00033842.html

Add CommentJuly 09, 2010 09:39:18 GMT

For her choice to sign on as the new face of Avon cosmetics, the animal rights organization honors her with the 2010 PETA Kind Choices Award.

© /WENN

"Twilight" saga star Ashley Greene has been honored with a new award from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) for signing on as the new face of Avon cosmetics. The animal rights organization honors Greene with the 2010 PETA Kind Choices Award.

Avon was the first major cosmetics company to adopt a cruelty-free policy and has ended all animal testing of its products and ingredients since 1989. For teaming up with the cosmetic company, which also has a foundation to work against breast cancer, PETA spokeswoman Amanda Schinke told WENN that Greene will receive a framed certificate and a card signed by PETA staffers.

PETA Vice President of Laboratory Investigations Kathy Guillermo, additionally, said, "Ashley and Avon are to be congratulated for encouraging millions of 'Twilight' fans and other young people to choose makeup that's fun, not fatal. Thanks to cruelty-free companies such as Avon, you can get a to-die-for look that no animals had to die for."

Animal Abuser Registry Proposed For New York

Was forwarded this information. An excellent idea that hopefully will spread. If you are in New York or know some who are, please let them know what they can do to make this a reality. Please view the video to learn more.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNl6Bk25gXc

On July 9 the Bureau of Land Management Will Begin Another Round Up Of Almost 1,200 Horses: What You Can Do To Speak Against It

I’m a little late on this one, but please still try to act.

Another ridiculous move by a government agency to bow down to a large multinational corporation and roundup and sell to slaughter beautiful wild horses. To see what you can do to comment and act, visit http://www.examiner.com/x-45566-Horse-Examiner~y2010m7d5-Unseen-desert-round-up-to-begin-in-three-days

I’ve posted in the full article below found at that link.

Unseen desert round up to begin in three days

http://www.examiner.com/x-45566-Horse-Examiner~y2010m7d5-Unseen-desert-round-up-to-begin-in-three-days

July 5, 10:04 PMHorse ExaminerLaura Leigh

On July 9 the Bureau of Land management will begin another round up. The Owyhee and Rock Creek HMA's in Elko Nevada are scheduled for removal of almost 1,200 horses.

The BLM is now labeling this gather the "Tuscarora gather" as the area lies in the Tuscarora field office district. The BLM is now referencing this gather as part of a "complex" system of three HMA's instead of as individual events. The complex of three HMA's is over 480,000 acres yet they claim this area can only sustain about 400 horses.

No matter what this gather is called it will begin July 9th.

“The current wild horse population in these HMAs is more than three times what the range can sustain,” said Field Manager David Overcast. “We need to gather and remove the excess wild horses to achieve a thriving natural ecological balance on the land and address the horse populations that have moved outside the HMA boundaries. By keeping the wild horse population within the appropriate management levels, we can prevent further deterioration of Lahontan cutthroat trout streams, riparian zones, wildlife habitat, wilderness values and other important resources in these HMAs.”

Yet it appears the area is slated for other projects as well.

The Ruby Pipeline that will run through Northern Nevada will go through this complex just as it will the Calico Complex where horses were rounded up this past winter. That round up has resulted in over 101 deaths so far that do not include the deaths of foals 5 months and younger (they don't count those).

On June 22, 2010 the BLM began comment period on the Arturo Mine project. Comments will be accepted until July 21 on the Barrick Gold Exploration project.

"The proposed Project includes the expansion of the existing open pit, construction of two new waste rock disposal storage facilities, construction of a new heap leach facility, and the construction of new support facilities (i.e. substation and associated transmission powerline, water wells, office, and roads)."

As you approach these HMA's heavy livestock use is also evident.

Public land will be closed to the public beginning tomorrow, July 6. The public will not be given access to witness this round up that will run newborn foals for miles over the terrain often deemed "too rough" for vehicle traffic in the supporting documents. During the Calico gather this past winter two young horses were run so hard their hooves sloughed off. Those youngsters were aged at 8 months old. What will be the impact on foals just days old in the summer heat?

In June of 2006 at Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, not far from Owyhee, the consequences of a horrific summer gather were captured on film. This round up is often referenced as "The Sheldon Massacre." Statements made at Sheldon now reference that population counts are not done until the end of July because foaling is still occurring during the month of July. Yet in the Tuscarora field office we are told foaling season has ended. The contractor for the Sheldon 2006 round up Cattoor Livestock, will be the same one rounding up the horses in Owyhee and Rock Creek.

The BLM currently claims that this helicopter gather is safe. If it is safe why is the public's ability to document being so severely limited?

The Ohio Dog Auctions Act: Ban Dog Auctions in Ohio

Horrible that this even exists. To auction of dogs to anyone for any purpose is just an act against decency. Please view the information below to see what you can do and pass onto those you know in Ohio.

OH: Ban Dog Auctions! Sign the Petition Today

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/campaign.faces?siteId=3&campaign=BanDogAuctions&origin=ARS_FACE_FAN_ADGROUP_TAKEACTION_DOGAUCTIONS

ponsored by: ASPCA

**June 24, 2010: Good news, New York! The NYC Senate and Assembly passed the budget bill preserving the statewide spay/neuter program for low-income New Yorkers' animals. This humane legislation that will funnel hundreds of thousands of dollars annually toward this service has been signed into law by Governor Paterson.

Dog auctions are a little-known piece of the puppy mill puzzle. At these auctions, breeders sell dogs they no longer want to other breeders. Those who participate in these auctions typically run large-scale, commercial breeding operations where the primary motivation is profit rather than the well-being of the dogs.

The Ohio Dog Auctions Act would make it unlawful for any person to auction a dog in Ohio for any purpose. It would also prohibit bringing a dog into the state for resale if he or she was bought at an auction in another state. Sign the petition in support of The Ohio Dog Auctions Act!

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/campaign.faces?siteId=3&campaign=BanDogAuctions&origin=ARS_FACE_FAN_ADGROUP_TAKEACTION_DOGAUCTIONS

Animal Rights Music and New YouTube Video: Tera Transporter by Annemarie Borg

Wanted to pass this on to all of you. Always support artists involved in animal rights.

I came across your blog and site while researching how to get more viewers and listeners to the work we do with music and with our public statements.
We have the same aims and concerns as you, and this is in all our work.
Please visit our site:
www.annemarieborg.com/statement.html
and
www.thamnos.com music and statements

The video we would like mainly to be seen and heard is of course the one we made for PETA...Tera Transporter.
It was posted on their site for 2 weeks but now it is only on youtube on our account.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgb87hO6CVk&feature=channel

Is there anyway you could help us to get more access, we feel strongly about the fact that some of PETA's new videos are so commercial that it takes away from the seriousness of this inhumane animal treatment.
Best wishes from London UK
For Thamnos
Annemarie Borg

Animal Freedom Day - July 24th 2010: Also, the Documentary 'Don't Eat Me': Information and Website

Received this email. Sounds like a great event by good people and an informative documentary 'Don't Eat Me'. Please check them out: I am an animal rights activist and filmmaker of the documentary 'Don't Eat Me'. I am currently organizing a worldwide event called Animal Freedom Day, which takes place on July 24th 2010. Thus far the film has received support and participation from individuals such as Pamela Anderson, Woody Harrelson, Weird Al, Moby, K-OS, Corey Feldman, Nigel Barker, award-winning authors and many others from around the world. There are also many organizations involved with the film, including; Humane Society of the United States, PETA, Compassion in World Farming, Viva! UK, The Vegetarian Society, Compassion Over Killing, etc. In addition, many international musicians are taking part. Animal Freedom Day is an event that takes place which aims to creatively tackle the ongoing topic of animal rights. It is a day in which people from all walks of life cease to consume animals or animal by-products. Our goal is to create awareness and put an end to the slaughtering of animals, animal abuse and create an alternative food source. Animal Freedom Day is a multi-venue music festival that will be streamed live online for the world to see. It will feature many performances from independent music artists to legendary music icons. Many high profile celebrities, environmentalists, politicians and several others from around the world will take part and have their voice heard to free the animals. (<<http://www.animalfreedomday.com>>) Animal Freedom Day was initiated due to 'Don't Eat Me' (<<http://www.donteatme.ca>>). The concept behind Animal Freedom Day is to bring the world together to free the animals from the abuse they are currently being subjected to on a daily basis. Such an event would also allow the film to capture a truly epic and climatic moment, as the world unites to free the animals once and for all. Although this event is international, the headquarters for Animal Freedom Day will be held in Burlington, Ontario, Canada at the Burlington Jazz & Blues Festival (a vegetarian music festival). We also encourage you to use our event registration to host your own online event. By doing so this would help to spread the word about your belief, cause and contribution for the animals. I would be so thrilled and grateful for your support and/or sponsorship of Animal Freedom Day by signing up online and taking the Veg Pledge. Please let all of your friends, family, co-workers and social networks know about this day and our cause. I believe that together we can unite and help spread awareness for animal rights. On July 24th please refrain from eating or using any animal products or animal bi-products. Watch us online and join in. Take the Veg Pledge, sign up and spread the word. For more information on Animal Freedom Day please visit <<http://www.animalfreedomday.com>> Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you. Best, Nadia Masoudi

Filmmaker/Activist (905) 540-3804 ext: 470 Direct E-mail: nadia@animalfreedomday.com www.donteatme.ca www.animalfreedomday.com

Nine Chimpanzees Need Assistance to be Released from an Animal Testing Lab in Louisiana

Very easy action. Please visit http://www.humanesociety.org/news/news/2010/06/nine_chimps_lab_061510.html to see what you can do to help:

Help Spare Nine Chimps From Life in a Lab

Fate of nine chimpanzees in a Louisiana research facility to be decided soon

http://www.humanesociety.org/news/news/2010/06/nine_chimps_lab_061510.html

Animals, Research, and Alternatives Conference

Received this in an email. I highly suggest anyone who can go to do so.

Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) is cosponsoring the Animals, Research and Alternatives conference on Aug. 26-27, 2010 in Washington, DC. We would like to invite the members of GEARI’s mailing list to register to attend this groundbreaking event. The conference will be of particular interest to your group as it will address key issues including the ethical, scientific, and legal imperatives relevant to the use of animals in research. Learn more about the conference by visiting,www.ResearchAlternatives.org.

We would like to know if you would assist us with spreading the word about the conference to its membership by circulating information about the conference on its listserv. Please feel free to use the following text in your post:

Animals, Research, and Alternatives Conference

Join global experts at the Animals, Research, and Alternatives: Measuring Progress 50 Years Later conference on August 26-27, 2010, in Washington, D.C. Attendees will learn about key issues including the ethical, scientific, and legal imperatives relevant to the use of animals in research. Register today at www.ResearchAlternatives.org.

Note for Students: If the registration fee is prohibitive to you attending the conference, scholarships are available (covering the registration fee only). For scholarship consideration, please email comp@pcrm.org.

For questions and additional information, please contact Leah Engel at lengel@pcrm.org.