Animal Crimes, Animal Abuse and General Dumb Asses to Report; Also Ways To Help Stop it!

Punish Mob Accused of Savagely Killing 50 Stray Dogs.
The_Indian_Pariah_Dog via ryan.virgo
Target: Prakash Javadekar, Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, India
Goal: Punish men who allegedly strangled and bludgeoned 50 stray dogs before burying them in a mass grave.
Over 50 stray dogs were allegedly killed by a five-man mob, say animal rights activists in India. The five men were allegedly hired by management at the Velankanni Church, a popular tourist destination in Tamil Nadu, India, to catch and kill all stray dogs within a one kilometer radius. The dogs were clubbed to death or hanged with nylon ropes before being buried in a mass grave.
Stray dogs are very common in India and have been labeled as pests by both residents and tourists. The hungry and unhealthy dogs roam in packs and have been known to lash out at humans and their pets. Each year, approximately 20,000 human deaths occur due to rabies infections from stray dog bites. This number accounts for over one-third of rabies cases globally.
Though the dogs pose a threat to the health of humans, this is no excuse to kill them in such a brutal manner. The Indian government has introduced an aggressive spay and neuter program that includes the setup of 500 sterilization and vaccination centers across Tamil Nadu. Police in some cities have rescued animals off the streets and put them in training programs to become K-9 officers, while terminally ill dogs are euthanized in a more humane manner.
In order to protect the health of both dogs and humans, the Indian government should look to further decrease dog populations with humane measures, such as increased sanitation to remove the large amounts of trash that these stray dogs feed on. Sign the petition below to demand that that those responsible for the brutal killings of over 50 stray dogs are punished, and that the government work harder to prevent these acts in the future.
Dear Minister Javadekar,
Over 50 stray dogs were allegedly killed in the vicinity of Tamil Nadu’s Velankanni Church by a mob of 5 men. The dogs were strangled and bludgeoned to death before being thrown into a mass grave. This is only one of many recent attacks against the stray dog population.
In order to prevent further attacks against these stray dogs, the government must punish their attackers and do more to prevent canine aggression against humans. We, the undersigned, demand that the men are punished to the full extent of the law if found guilty, and that improved sanitation standards are implemented in order to further curb stray dog populations.
sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Ryan.virgo
Justice For Chai - Dead at #3 Worst Zoo for Elephants - Click Here To Help!

In Defense of Animals
Oklahoma City Zoo is to blame. On January 30,  beloved Asian elephant Chai was found dead, alone and laying outside in the cold elephant yard at Oklahoma City Zoo. The situation surrounding her death is suspicious, and marks the second premature elephant death at the zoo in recent months. News of Chai’s death is heartbreaking for those who loved her, and especially for her many loyal friends who fought so hard for her freedom.

Tragically, Chai almost made it, along with her longtime companion Bamboo, to a California sanctuary when their previous zoo closed its elephant exhibit. 

However,  the relentless, self-serving zoo industry denied them both their freedom, and sentenced them to an even worse situation: an even more cramped exhibit, and a colder climate, at Oklahoma City Zoo.

We need you to take urgent action for elephants still stuck at the disgraceful Oklahoma City Zoo, which is why we have spotlighted this zoo ahead of the #2 Worst Zoo for Elephants.
Before this tragic incident, Oklahoma Zoo lost an even younger elephant, Malee. She died in October, at only four years of age. This shocking loss is one of the factors that earned Oklahoma City Zoo the dishonor of being our #3 Worst Zoo for Elephants.

Health records reveal that soon before her death, Chai was having trouble standing up after laying on her right side, and required assistance from keepers to get up. She also had a neck vertebra in an odd position, which may indicate a pinched nerve.  The zoo ruled out the Herpes Virus, EEHV, implicit in Malee's death, but has yet to explain exactly what Chai died from. We will soon find out, as necropsy results will be available within the month.
We have so many questions about this tragedy. Why was Chai found dead outside in the early morning? Was she was left out in the cold all night long? Temperatures were in the low 30's that night in Oklahoma, which would be intolerable for an Asian elephant evolved for a tropical climate, and could well have lead to her death. In Defense of Animals’ Elephant Scientist, Toni Frohoff, Ph.D. has written to the USDA to submit a formal complaint and request for a full investigation into Chai’s death:

There is a strong basis for concern that Chai was left outside in the cold overnight and was not afforded reasonable protection, as is required under the Animal Welfare Act.  This needs to be explored as the cause of, or a contributing factor, to her early and suspicious death. Repeated statements from the Zoo in the media and even on their website and media release claim that Chai was "found in the elephant yard at approximately 7:30 am". Given the recorded temperatures of that night falling into the 30’s and the lack of evidence that she was monitored appropriately, this would be a heinous violation of both Subpart F 3.127(b) of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), regarding appropriate shelter from inclement weather and Association of Zoos and Aquarium guidelines that, "Elephants exposed to temperatures below 40°F for longer than 60 minutes, must be monitored hourly to assess the potential for hypothermia."

As the cause of Chai's death remains to be seen, we need to take action for the remaining elephants NOW.
Four elephants remain at Oklahoma City Zoo, including Chai's bereaved friend Bamboo. What does their future hold? Chai's death once again raises questions about keeping elephants in captivity. Is it justifiable?  Does it make any contribution to conservation?

Burgeoning scientific data, elephant experts, true conservationists, and growing public awareness say NO.
Join us in in calling on Oklahoma City Zoo and the American Zoo Association to start respecting elephants as thinking, feeling beings, and to shift away from their profit-driven agenda by joining the growing number of zoos sending elephants to sanctuaries.

Chai's life and untimely death is a firm testament to the undeniable truth that elephant captivity is cruel, ultimately meaningless for conservation, and unacceptable in these changing times. 

Help us get justice for Chai. Urge Oklahoma City Zoo to do better for the elephants that remain there. We must get the zoo’s Executive Director and CEO,  Mr. Dwight Lawson, to completely rethink the zoo's cruel elephant program, and fully consider what captivity costs these, and all, captive elephants. We must urge him to reexamine the facts, stop denying the evidence, and finally put humanity over profit and personal gain by retiring the elephants to a sanctuary where they can live out the rest of their lives in peace.

Another Tragic Dog Shooting in Mississippi. Imagine that you’re busy across the road from your home, thinking your animals are safe, while one of your beloved animal companions slips out and a person ruthlessly shoots and discards her, miles from her home.

This is exactly what happened to one Mississippi resident.

Earlier this month, on Saturday, February 6, Jessica Maness, of Grenada County, MS returned home to find that Rose, one of her precious dogs, was missing. Jessica’s landlady told her that Rose passed between their homes earlier, but felt it to be of no consequence because she knew Rose to be “friendly and well mannered.”

Getting increasingly anxious about Rose, Jessica posted her plight on local Facebook pages. That night a Grenada business woman called to ask what markings Rose might have. Unbeknownst to Jessica, the woman’s employees had discovered a dog lying on a blood soaked “loveseat.” Rose was lying dead, bound with nylon cord, half covered in a blood filled white plastic bag, and shot in the back of her head. She had been dumped by the highway, miles from home.

Jessica’s hopes were dashed, and she faced an agonizing journey to the site of the gruesome discovery in order to confirm the grim killing of her dear companion.

The workers who found the sickening scene believed they had seen the furniture in the bed of a white truck that had passed by earlier, and that later passed by empty.

The case is currently under investigation with the Grenada County Sheriff’s Department. We are offering a reward for information that brings Rose’s killer to justice.

In Defense of Animals’ Justice for Animals Campaign is committed to seeking justice for the Roses, Gingers and other animals of Mississippi. Our coalition of officials and advocates will not rest until strong laws are in place to protect animals like Rose.

Ban Animal Abusers From Owning Pets for Life.
RSPCA Chunky the Chihuahua
Target: British Prime Minister, David Cameron
Goal: Place all animal abusers on an animal abuse registry to prevent them from owning animals for life.
In what the RSPCA has called one of the most disturbing cases of animal abuse they have ever seen, a young Chihuahua-cross breed was recently tortured for hours and left for dead. The one-year-old dog named Chunky was stolen from his owners by four teenage boys and drugged, beaten and burned. The animal was then left for dead, suffering for hours until he was found with a broken neck and leg and a badly scorched face.
After having admitted to torturing Chunky in a horrific manner, the perpetrators have been banned for keeping animals for five years. However, this is not sufficient to protect animals from cruelty at the hands of known abusers. Activists are now calling for offenders convicted of animal cruelty to be added to a lifelong list precluding them from ever owning animals.
Sign this petition urging the British government to ensure that animal abusers are placed on an animal abuse registry, prohibiting them from ever owning animals again.
Dear Prime Minister Cameron,
The recent case of Chunky the Chihuahua’s horrific treatment at the hands of four abusers highlights the urgent need to protect animals in the United Kingdom. Despite beating, kicking, drugging and burning Chunky, as well as breaking his leg and neck, the perpetrators were only banned from owning pets for five years. This is not long enough, not when animals’ lives are at stake.
Several states in the United States already use animal abuse registries and Britain needs a similar law. I urge you to protect animals by ensuring that abusers are placed on a specific and enforced registry precluding them from ever owning animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: RSPCA
Help Find the Sick Jerks Who Tied Up Dog and Took a Video Pelting Him With Shoes and Cigarettes. There is something seriously disturbing about anyone who abuses or harms animals for fun. We cannot fathom why anyone would take pleasure in hurting an animal and it tears our hearts out when we see such cruelty occur.
Recently, a video appeared online of a dog tied up in a crucifixion position and repeatedly bombarded with cigarettes and shoes. The horrific footage was shared on WhatsApp and Facebook, showing the poor animal writhing in pain. As the dog whimpers and tries to cover his face, the crowd is heard laughing and playing music, amused by their sick thrill.
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Laxmi Agarwal, from Mumbai, posted the video on Facebook, with a plea to find the cruel people who did this. “Please make this video viral. This video was received on WhatsApp. We need to find the location and details of [the] culprits. Please share.”
While this footage is heartbreaking to watch, it is important to share so that the perpetrators of this abuse can be caught and brought to justice. No animal deserves to be treated with such cruelty. While it is unclear where this video was taken, the more it is shared, the more likely these individuals will be caught.
Instances like this are prime examples as to why animal cruelty needs to be taken seriously. In the U.S., the Federal Bureau of Intelligence recently started investigating cases of animal cruelty. These reports will be categorized as “crimes against society,” and  regarded as Group A felonies, a grouping which also includes murder, arson, assault and drug trafficking. This new classification will hopefully help justify harsher sentences.
We can all help animal victims by speaking up for those in need. If you ever come across a case of animal abuse, report it to law enforcement to help officials track and prevent these crimes. There are also many other ways to take action for abused animals. To learn more about how to identify animal abuse and neglect and what to do if you suspect cruelty or witness it, read this article.
We can only hope that the sick people who hurt this poor dog will be prosecuted for their act. Please share this article so that these people can be caught! All image source: Facebook
Shocking Video of Deer Baiting, Netting Unveiled—Ask City to Halt Terror Trapping. Citizen Advocates for Lakeway Deer (CALD)—a grassroots organization of residents of Lakeway, Texas—has unveiled never-before-seen video footage of the city's handling of so-called "surplus" deer. The footage exposes for the first time how the animals, who are lured into traps, are netted, are pinned to the ground, have their antlers sawed off, and are then hauled upside down into a trailer. They're ultimately transported to slaughter.
After being driven 80 miles, the animals are shot in the head and butchered.
A Lakewood police detective admitted that "any animal that gets a net dropped on 'em … gets its horns cut off … gets picked up and put in a trailer upside down, that's traumatized, you know?"
One trapped deer had previously been shot with an arrow. He lay bleeding, caught in the netting. Instead of ending the wounded deer's suffering, the workers sawed off his antlers and dragged him away to the trailer.
Lakeway spent more than $28,000 in 2013–14 on this traumatizing practice, even though trapping is an ineffective method of wildlife control. Killing backfires because the resultant spike in the food supply accelerates breeding among survivors and newcomers. Even the detective admitted, "I've seen this going on for 10 years, and Lakeway is still covered with deer. It's … not going to eliminate 'em, you know."
And deer families are torn apart, with orphaned young left to starve. Despite widespread opposition, the city has continued with this year's trapping program.
CALD has collected the signatures of more than 1,000 Lakeway residents who are calling on the city to end the deer-trapping program, conduct a census of the deer population, and implement humane means of managing wildlife issues.
Please urge Lakeway officials to halt the trapping and slaughter of deer, and share these humane deer-control tips with them.

Justice for Kitten Allegedly Shot Six Times.

kitten-by-atroywy
Target: The Honorable Norman L. Watts, Jr., Town Justice
Goal: Demand the harshest punishment for the person convicted of shooting a kitten six times.
A kitten died after it was reportedly shot six times with a .22 rifle. The alleged perpetrator is being charged with aggravated cruelty to animals. Demand the harshest punishment for the person convicted of this heinous crime.
A mother reported to local police that her son, Michael W. Vreeland, shot and killed her kitten behind her home. Trooper Jack Keller reportedly responded to the call and questioned the accused. Vreeland confessed to the crime, allegedly stating that he shot the kitten because he thought it was having a seizure. Reports claim that an official investigation did not support his story.
Vreeland is reportedly being held at Madison County Jail on $1,000 bond. Sign below and demand the harshest penalty for the person convicted of this inhumane act.
Dear Judge Watts,
A kitten was allegedly shot six times and died from its injuries. A crime this heinous cannot go unpunished. We demand the maximum penalty for the person convicted of this horrific act.
Police reports state that 22-year-old Michael W. Vreeland confessed to shooting the kitten. Vreeland’s reported confession allegedly states that he thought that the cat was having a seizure. The official police investigation did not support his story.
Vreeland is reportedly being held in the Madison County Jail on $1,000 bond. If he is found guilty, then justice must be served. We demand that the person convicted of this heinous act of abuse receive the maximum penalty under the law.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: atroywy
Demand Justice for Dolphin Allegedly Killed by Selfie-Seeking Tourists.
dolphin-by-heyjude
Target: Comisiario General Hugo Matzkin, Superintendent General of Police
Goal: Prosecute those responsible for allegedly exposing a dolphin to the sun so that they could take selfies.
A dolphin was allegedly cooked to death in the hot sun after a tourist removed it from the water for the purpose of taking selfies. Demand that the people responsible for the suffering and death of this vulnerable animal are prosecuted if found guilty.
Dozens of tourists allegedly passed a baby dolphin around while it overheated in the hot sun. It began with one person snatching the baby from the water. Soon, a mob allegedly surrounded the dolphin in an attempt to take selfies. Dolphins cannot survive outside of the water for long; their thick, fatty skin quickly absorbs heat and raises their body temperature. In a matter of minutes, the dolphin allegedly died in the rough hands of the tourists.
Shortly after, the dolphin’s body was discarded on the beach. Sign below to demand that the people allegedly responsible are punished.
Dear General Matzkin,
A tourist allegedly plucked a dolphin from the water in an attempt to take selfies. Soon, dozens of curious tourists surrounded the dolphin. It allegedly squirmed in pain as the sun slowly cooked it to death. No animal should have to burn to death to satisfy human curiosity. We demand that justice is served for this vulnerable animal.
With only 30,000 La Plata dolphins left in the world, we must take a stand. Dolphins face the threat of fishing nets, pollution, and habitat loss every day. The ignorance of the public should not become a threat to this vulnerable species.
The alleged actions taken by this group of tourists cannot be tolerated. We demand that those involved in this ignorant assault are prosecuted if found guilty.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: heyjude
Justice for Puppies Allegedly Thrown From Car.
Stray-by-Uditha Wickramanayaka.jpg (2)
Target: Larry Morse, Merce County District Attorney
Goal: Seek maximum penalty against person who allegedly threw puppies from a car, hurting them so badly that they couldn’t move.
Two severely abused 9-week-old puppies with broken bones were found behind a hair salon crying and incapable of moving after a witness allegedly saw them being thrown from a car. The veterinarian at the animal hospital where the puppies were taken for treatment stated that photographs of one injury are too graphic to share. He also said that the disturbing injuries show substantial amounts of trauma that will require surgery. Both puppies had a broken back leg and bloodshot eyes, and one also had a broken jaw. The puppies are believed to have endured weeks of suffering.
It’s beyond disturbing that someone could commit such heinous cruelty against innocent animals. In the case of these two puppies, it’s a miracle they even survived. It’s pitiful that people could beat animals to the extent that their tiny bodies are broken. These people are dangerous to other life. Please sign this petition to demand that, if found guilty, the people responsible for the suffering these dogs endured are given the maximum penalty and permanently banned from owning animals.
Dear District Attorney Morse,
Two puppies were found with injuries that were so severe they couldn’t even walk. They were reportedly thrown from a car and left to die until someone heard their cries. The veterinarian says they’ll require surgery and that their injuries signify substantial trauma. These poor, innocent puppies suffered for weeks, he says.
It would appear these innocent little animals were put through torment by their owners. Police say they’re investigating to find out who may have committed this heinous act against the puppies, but we urge you to step up and help bring them justice. Please seek the maximum penalty possible when the cruel owners are found and ensure they’re banned from ever owning animals again.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Uditha Wickramanayaka
Cancel Alligator Wrestling Show.
The-Swampmaster!-by-dmblue444
Target: Matt Pepper, President and CEO of Michigan Humane Society
Goal: Cancel cruel alligator wrestling show that allegedly violates state statutes against animal cruelty.
A show involving teasing, poking, and wrestling alligators is scheduled for multiple performances over the weekend and some of Michigan’s citizens say the show violates the state statutes on animal cruelty. One man chose to file a complaint regarding the Swampmaster Gator Show, saying it violates the rule that no person shall entice or tease a dog or other animal.
Recent performances included the alligator handler Jeff Quattrocchi poking an alligator with a stick, causing it to bite the stick. In other acts, he climbs on the alligator’s back and wrestles its mouth open, showing the audience its teeth. Quattrocchi claims that climbing on their backs gives the “rush the show promotes.”
Aside from the questionable behavior of wrestling alligators for a show, it’s cruel to use wild animals for performances in general. It seems as if this show could be more about personal gain and money rather than education. There are other, safe and humane ways to run an alligator show. Demand that this abusive program be cancelled.
Dear President Pepper,
The Swampmaster Gator Show is scheduled to perform in Grand Rapids, Michigan this weekend. It’s been brought to our attention that the performances may violate the rule that no person shall entice or tease a dog or other animal. The performances reportedly include the alligator being poked with a stick and a man climbing on its back and forcing its mouth open for the audience to see the teeth. It seems cruel to wrestle or poke a wild animal with a stick until the animal chews it up.
It’s up to us to be the voice for innocent animals who may be enduring mistreatment. We urge you to seriously consider how these acts violate Michigan rules and please help get this show cancelled.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: dmblue444
Stop the mass killing of Bali's dogs. Take action to save Bali's dogs
The Governor of the island of Bali ordered the mass killing of roaming dogs. Thousands of innocent dogs are killed every year, often suffering slow and painful deaths.

The Governor claims free-roaming dogs will lead to the spread of rabies. But human and animal health experts have proven that culling doesn't work to control rabies. In fact, it can result in the spread of the disease. Often, dogs that have already been vaccinated are among the victims of a mass killing.



Tell Balinese officials to stop the mass killings.



We have prepared a template email for you to send. If you prefer, you can personalize this copy to make it more effective. Please ensure that you are polite at all times.
So many dogs are dying - even family pets - in a misguided effort to eradicate rabies in Bali. But health officials agree that vaccinations are the key to stopping rabies, not mass slaughters. Help us Stop the Slaughter.
Punish Man Who Allegedly Zip-Tied Dog’s Mouth Shut.
1024px-Smooth_Dachshund_red_and_tan_portrait via raven underwood
Target: Animal Control Division, Linn County Sheriff’s Office
Goal: Charge man who reportedly bragged about zip-tying his dog’s mouth shut on social media.
An online post featuring a man bragging about zip-tying his dog’s muzzle shut has sparked a social media firestorm. A photo of a dog, with its mouth tightly held closed by a plastic fastener and a man’s hand holding it up from the scruff of its neck, featured the caption “when you’re tired of the barking.” The photo, originally posted on the photo-sharing app Snapchat, features a dachshund named Hank. The photo quickly ended up on an animal welfare group’s Facebook page where it was shared thousands of times.
After receiving over 50 calls about the post, police in Eugene, Oregon attempted to question Matt McMichael, Hank’s owner and alleged abuser. Though McMicheal was no longer living in the area, the case was passed on to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) where officers were able to find and interrogate him. After the questioning, McMicheal returned to social media to apparently post comments downplaying the situation and laughing about it, showing no remorse for his actions before finally closing his account due to backlash.
Instead of giving his dog proper training, the man reportedly chose to use cruel and ineffective methods to stop its barking. So far, the LCSO has failed to charge the suspect. The case will be passed down to Linn County Animal Control for further investigation, where officers may opt to press charges. Sign the petition below to demand that this pet owner is punished for his apparent abusive behavior.
Dear LCSO Animal Control Division,
A post that recently went viral on Facebook showed an Oregon man laughing and bragging about forcing his dog’s mouth shut with a zip tie. A photo of a dachshund, named Hank, with plastic around its muzzle was accompanied by a caption implying that the dog was being punished for barking. Investigators at the Linn County Sheriff’s Office refuse to press charges because they say that the dog was not injured, though the photo clearly shows the dog in pain.
Instead of getting frustrated with the dog, the owner should have took the time to properly train it. It is important that this callous and irresponsible pet owner is punished for his alleged cruelty. We, the undersigned, ask you to press charges against the person responsible for this shocking post.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Raven Underwood
Justice for Shark Abused in Selfie Photo Opportunity.
man-holding-shark-by-Ashleigh-Walters
Target: Pam Bondi, Florida Attorney General
Goal: Punish tourist filmed pulling a shark from the ocean to pose with in selfie photos.
A recently released video shows a man pulling a shark from the ocean in order to pose with it for his friends to take pictures. The video, taken by journalist Ashleigh Walters from WPTV, comes on the heals of a similar incident in Argentina involving a baby dolphin.
The Florida video shows a man pulling a struggling shark from the sea and wrestling it onto the sand. It goes on to show the man’s six friends taking pictures of him posing with the traumatized shark. The shark is eventually released back into the sea, but is not seen resurfacing for several minutes.
This abusive behavior must not be allowed to continue. Demand the man in this video and his friends are located and punished for their heinous behavior.
Dear Attorney Bondi,
A video filmed by a local journalist shows a man wrestling a live, struggling shark from the ocean in order for his six friends to take turns photographing him posing with the animal. Although the shark was eventually released back into the sea, it was not seen resurfacing for several minutes and its long-term survival is unknown. Florida must take a zero-tolerance stand against such abusive actions.
We demand this man and his friends are investigated and punished accordingly.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: Ashleigh Walters
Justice for Roosters Killed in Cockfighting Operation.

Cockfighting-in-Margarita-Island-Venezuela-11-by-Wilfredo-Rodriguez.jpg
Target: Michael Ramos, District Attorney of San Bernardino, California
Goal: Seek maximum penalty for man who allegedly ran cockfighting operation and posted videos online of roosters fighting to death.
Videos of illegal cockfighting were reportedly posted on Instagram, leading to a man’s arrest and the deaths of 30 roosters who were seized from his property. The videos showed roosters fighting to their deaths. Dead and injured roosters were reportedly found on the property and the live roosters, who police say were sick and injured, had to be euthanized since they were bred for fighting and therefore can’t be released into farm life. The man arrested for this cruel crime used Craigslist to sell fighting roosters and Instagram to promote the selling, training, breeding, and fighting of them, according to police.
Cockfighting is nothing short of pure cruelty, used for the sake of entertainment purposes and money by sadistic humans. Cockfighting rings are set up where people can place bets and win money when two roosters, forced into a cage, fight until one dies. People tie knives and other weapons on the roosters’ feet so they stab and cut each other. Being that their purpose is for entertaining sick humans and making them money, the birds often suffer from untreated injuries and are thrown away like garbage when they’re no longer of use.
The person in this case seems to have been heavily into cockfighting. He should be held responsible for all the suffering these poor animals endured and for every life that was taken on account of his selfish, sadistic behavior. If he enjoyed watching animals have no choice but to kill each other, then he’s a danger to society. Demand that he receive the maximum penalty and a permanent ban from owning animals, if found guilty.
Dear District Attorney Michael Ramos,
A man was recently busted for a cockfighting operation after allegedly posting gruesome videos of roosters fighting to their deaths online. Police say he’d been selling fighting roosters and promoting the breeding, training, and selling of the poor animals through social media.
A person capable of this level of animal cruelty is violent and a danger to all life. We urge you to seek the maximum penalty in the case against the man accused of these cruel crimes and ensure he’s permanently banned from owning animals, if found guilty.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Wilfredo Rodriguez
Shut Down “Zoo of Death”.
Surabaya-Death-Zoo-Tiger-by-India
Target: Indonesian President Joko Widodo
Goal: Shut down Surabaya Zoo in Indonesia nicknamed the “Zoo of Death.”
The Surabaya Zoo goes beyond the standard horrors of neglect seen in other zoos. These animals live in substandard cages until they die of starvation. Photographs show no proper care given to these animals, and with matted coats and protruding bones, they are a terrifying example of human indifference.
Many of these animals are mutilated, others are diseased, stuffed into over crowded cages, and when they die, their organs are sold off illegally. Surabaya zoo truly is a death zoo. The idea that something so infamous is allowed to continue operation defies reason.
These people are turning a profit from the slow torture, murder, and exploitation of wild animals. Despite a local activist group’s efforts in petitioning the zoo be shut down, it is still open. However, a tiger by the name of Melani was rescued from the zoo and is currently recovering well.
Statements made by Surabaya claim they will not be closing anytime soon and the animals under their care have nowhere to go even if they did, because the animals are diseased. This sounds like blatant neglect to keep other zoos or reservations from taking these animals in. Surabaya practically brags that the doors remain open because no one else will take their diseased and dying animals. Surabaya is a despicable organization and needs to be culled.
Think of the lives being lost at this facility. It’s a butcher’s farm and little more. Already tigers and other exotic animals are facing endangerment and extinction. Do not allow this insidious group to make money by destroying lives. Sign and urge the president of Indonesia to shut this facility down once and for all.
Dear President Widodo,
The Surabaya zoo is responsible for many animal deaths and illegal organ selling. They starve the animals in their care and cage them in terrible environments, yet the zoo is still open. An activist group has been working to rescue animals from the facility, but their means are small and the going is tough. The only certain way to save these animals and protect future victims from the Surabaya zoo is to shut it down.
Please, consider the safety of animals already being driven to extinction. Consider the loss of life because of this one facility and shut them down. Do not allow this ghastly torture to go on.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: India.com
Stop Beating Dogs to Death on Campus in India.
Stray-Hope-by-Change
Target: Director H.R. Singla
Goal: Punish security guards for allegedly beating stray dogs to death on Lovely Professional University campus in Jalandhar, India.
Students on Lovely Professional campus identified a series of animal abuses ranging from beating dogs to death, to crushing or tossing puppies into garbage bins. They discovered that security guards meant to protect inhabitants of the campus were reportedly issued a mandate by the school to do this. This horrifying discovery followed the death of a stray dog named Hope. A student customarily brought food for Hope every morning and was greeted with kisses and wagging tail. However, on one fateful day, the student ran late. Instead of a greeting by their stray friend, they instead found hope dazed and bleeding profusely from a severe beating. Hope was rushed to a nearby vet, but his wounds were too severe and he died within the hour. Hope lost his life, and this student lost his friend because of someone else’s monstrous actions. Afterward, students began talking and stories of other abuses came to light. Hope’s murder wasn’t a random act of cruelty, but just one act in a series.
Places of learning are beacons in to society, and are often considered places of high standard. Lovely Professional has shown it’s colors in a tragically disappointing way. The lack of humanity and surplus of ignorance it takes to charge security with brutally slaughtering animals is next to incomprehensible, but sadly all too common.
Put an end to this senseless massacre of stray dogs. Urge Lovely Professional School to help these dogs instead of murdering them. Stray animals may be inconvenient in the eyes of a business, but that does not make them fodder for petty cruelties. If humanity is measured by how one treats lesser individuals, human or animal, then Lovely Professional School has shown itself to lack even the most basic understanding.
Dear Director Singla,
Recently, stray dogs and puppies have been brutally murdered on Lovely Professional’s campus. It has come to light that this is apparently due to a mandate issued by the school to the security guards. Stray dogs are reportedly being beaten and left to die, puppies are crushed or tossed into dumpsters. Lovely Professional claims an excellence in education that is not reflected by this sort of mandate. It’s horrifying to think a place of higher learning would resort to such barbaric practices.
Please, recant this mandate. Stop encouraging security on the campus to engage in such cruelty, and punish those who have and continue to do so. Take the opportunity to aid these stray dogs, and provide the students an opportunity to help and extend compassion to those who need it most.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Outlaw Poison that Kills Bald Eagles.
eagle-by-BryanHanson
Target: Daniel M. Ashe, Director of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Goal: Protect bald eagles from cruel death by outlawing the use of poison on farms.
Thirteen bald eagles recently died under mysterious circumstances. An investigation is underway. Authorities are concerned that poison may have caused this mass death. Outlaw the use of poison on farms and protect the once-endangered bald eagle.
While the cause of death is still unknown, authorities have hypothesized that poison used on farms could be involved. Farmers often place poisoned animal carcasses throughout their land in order to kill rodents. Eagles have eaten the poison in the past and died from its effects.
The bald eagle is no longer considered an endangered species. This is largely due to the banning of DDT, a harmful pesticide. If farmers are continuing to use pesticides where eagles reside, something must be done to stop them before these beautiful birds become endangered again. Sign below and demand the outlawing of all poison near the bald eagle’s habitat.
Dear Mr. Ashe,
Thirteen bald eagles died under questionable circumstances. It is the largest scale die-off of bald eagles in Maryland in 30 years. An investigation is underway, but it is hypothesized that they were poisoned. We demand the outlawing of all poison on land adjacent to the bald eagle’s habitat.
Farmers place poisoned animal carcasses on their land to prevent rodent infestation. Eagles have been known to eat the poison. DDT was outlawed to protect the eagles. This played a large part in preventing their extinction. If other poisons are hurting the eagles, than something must be done.
We demand the banning of all poisons on land adjacent to the bald eagle’s habitat. We must protect this once-endangered animal.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: BryanHanson

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Protect Animals From Winter Weather!

Although they are equipped with fur and feathers, dogs, cats, birds and other animals can still suffer from frostbite, exposure, and dehydration when water sources freeze. Cold temperatures mean extra hardship for “backyard” dogs, who often go without adequate food, water, shelter, or medical care.

When the temperatures nosedive and you start piling on the layers, it’s also important to remember your wild neighbors. Wild animals burn extra calories during the winter months to stay warm, and they may have a difficult time finding drinking water. Here’s a look at some of the things you can do this winter to help take care of all your furry friends!
Cardinals In Snow
©iStock.com/SteveBylanddog in snow
FreeImages.com/RhysDaven

Take animals inside. Puppies and kittens, elderly animals, small animals, and dogs with short hair, including pointers, beagles, pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans, are particularly susceptible to the elements. Short-haired animals will also benefit from warm sweaters or coats.
Orange Cat Walks in Snow
© iStock.com/vvvita

Don’t allow your cat or dog to roam freely outdoors. In cold weather, cats sometimes climb under the hoods of cars to be near warm engines and are badly injured or killed when the car is started. (To help prevent this, bang loudly on the hood of your car before starting the engine.) Animals can also become disoriented when there is snow or ice on the ground.
Cold stray dog snow dog frozen
©iStock.com/petek arici

Increase animals’ food rations in cold weather. In cold weather, animals burn more calories to keep warm. Also, be sure that animals are free of internal parasites, which can rob them of vital nutrients.
Keep an eye out for strays. Take unidentified animals inside until you can find their guardians, or take them to an animal shelter. If strays are wild or unapproachable, provide food, water, and shelter (stray cats will appreciate a small doghouse filled with warm bedding), and call your local humane society for assistance in trapping them and getting them indoors.
Bluebird in snowstorm bird snow snowy cold
cold©iStock.com/EEI_Tony

Clean off your dogs’ or cats’ legs, feet, and stomachs after they come in from the snow. Salt and other chemicals can make animals sick if they are ingested while the animals are cleaning themselves.

When you see dogs left outdoors, provide them with proper shelter. Doghouses should be made of wood (metal is a poor insulator) and positioned in a sunny location during cold weather. Raise the house several inches off the ground, and put a flap over the door to keep out cold drafts. Use straw for bedding (rugs and blankets can get wet and freeze).
Bluebird in snowstorm bird snow snowy 

Buy nontoxic antifreeze made with propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol, which can kill animals even in small doses. Safe brands include Sierra and Prestone Lowtox. Animals are attracted to antifreeze for its sweetness, so clean up spills quickly, and buy brands with the bittering agent denatonium benzoate.
coyote-snow-freeimages
Provide a source of water for wildlife, who may have a difficult time finding drinking water during winter months. Break the ice at least twice a day.
Geese in snow goose pond frozen cold wild animal
©iStock.com/Merrimon

Give wildlife a boost. While it’s best to provide natural sources of food and shelter for birds by planting flowers and trees that produce seeds and berries, birds may need an extra boost during the winter, when they are burning extra calories to keep warm. Use a blend of seeds that includes oiled sunflower seeds, which are high in calories. Remember to stop the feeding when the weather warms up. An artificial food source causes wild animals to congregate in unnaturally large numbers in areas where they may be welcomed by some, but not others, and it can also make them easy targets for predators. Eventually, they may lose their ability to forage for food on their own entirely.