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How to help: Get involved in activism!

PLEASE WRITE TO THE U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA) ASK THEM TO GRANT PETITION 98P-0151/CP1 TO PROHIBIT THE SLAUGHTER OF DOWNED ANIMALS.

Our chances of stopping the downed animal trade are better now then ever. Please write today, and please encourage others to write as well:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration Dockets Management Branch
5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061
Rockville, MD 20852
fax: (301) 827-6870

Please be sure to include "Re: Docket Number 98P-0151/CP1" following your letter's heading, so they will know what the letter is in reference to.

Last year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a landmark policy to stop purchasing meat from downed cows for federal programs, including the National School Lunch Program. The agency stated, "USDA will no longer accept ground beef that includes product from non-ambulatory cattle, commonly known as 'downers'." This development shows a growing consensus - even among livestock industry and government officials - that the marketing and slaughter of downed animals is unacceptable. Here are some points you may wish to include in your letter:

  • Animals who are too sick or injured to stand should not be allowed to be slaughtered for human consumption.
  • The use of downed animals in meat production poses an increased health risk to the consumer from bacterial contamination and disease.
  • Downed animals cannot be moved humanely, and they are typically pushed with tractors or dragged with chains - resulting in injuries from bruises and abrasions, to broken bones and torn ligaments.
  • Prohibiting the marketing of downed animals will cause no undue economic hardship.
  • Industry experts have estimated that 90% of downed animals can be prevented with better care and handling. Removing the market for downed animals will provide an incentive to industry to prevent downed animals in the first place.
For more information, please contact Farm Sanctuary or visit our No Downers campaign website.
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