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March 2009 Sled Dogs Lose Paws Down! To the creators and sponsors of the annual Iditarod race. Billed as “The Last Great Race on Earth,” the yearly Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race began March 8. But how great of a race is it if dogs lose their lives? Not only do many dogs suffer terrible abuse during the pre-race training season, but many more suffer injuries and illnesses throughout the race, while still more have died. According to the Sled Dog Action Coalition, 29 dogs have died since 1997, including three dogs last year and five the year before. The official Iditarod rule book states, “All dog deaths are regrettable, but there are some that may be considered unpreventable.” Take Action! Write a polite message to the official sponsors of the Iditarod sled dog race and let them know that all Iditarod dog deaths—be it from training or the race itself—could be prevented if the race ceased to exist. Sources: www.iditarod.com/race/ www.iditarod.com/pdfs/2009/2009RulesFinal.pdf www.helpsleddogs.org/faq.htm#1 # Zebras Not For Sale Paws Down! To Lex Salisbury, former CEO of Lowry Zoo, for selling animals without a license. Park According to Tampa Bay Online, Lex Salisbury, former CEO of Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa Bay, FL, has been caught allegedly trying to sell a pair of zebras without the proper federal licensing to do so. Further, he apparently has been in violation of state and federal laws several times in the past in regard to his exotic and wild animal work and sales. Beyond the reported lack of federal licensing, NHES is disturbed by the attempted sale of the zebras as it may only further contribute to unnecessary suffering for wild creatures. Sadly, untold numbers of big cats, apes and monkeys, jungle birds, and other exotic and wild animals across our nation are kept in deprivation and misery by their private owners. Exotic and wild animals belong in their native habitats and not in backyards, garages, and basements. Take Action: Please send a polite note to USDA Spokesperson Jessica Milteer urging the agency to investigate the current status of Lex Salisbury regarding his right to buy, sell, and trade exotic animals. Request the USDA to hold him accountable according to federal licensing laws and ensure that the movement of animals by him is closely regulated. Jessica Milteer, Spokesperson United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 4700 River Road Riverdale, MD 20737 Phone: 301-734-3265 Email: jessica.d.milteer@aphis.usda,gov Source: http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/mar/21/210033/na-ex-zoo-boss-in-federal-cross-hairs/ # |
