Paws Up! H.R. 9309 would amend the animal welfare act to provided greater protection for roosters.
December 13, 2022
Roosters intended for fighting have a hard life from the moment they hatch. Trainers kill off the weakest birds and use only the most ferocious birds to fight, where the majority end up dying a gruesome death in the fighting ring. The birds that win the fight are often so fatally injured that they also die.
Before a fight, roosters have their combs and waddles cut off as part of their preparation and training, according to an article. Then it is followed by sharp blades and spikes that they attach to their feet. These forcibly equipped weapons are razor-sharp enough to puncture lungs and break bones. Trainers will pull at their feathers and beaks to spark more aggression in the roosters right before they force them to fight to the death.
Representative Cynthia Axne introduced H.R. 9309 to provide increased protection for roosters. This bill, introduced on November 16, 2022, is an amendment to the Animal Welfare Act. It would make transporting roosters to advertise an animal fighting venture unlawful. It would prohibit a person from transmitting or receiving a broadcast of the animal fighting venture from anywhere internationally. There would be a fine of up to $5,000 for each violation.
Roosters need this added protection. Sadly, cockfighting has been around for hundreds of years. In many countries, it is still a mainstream activity and part of their culture. This blood sport has gone on for far too long. This new bill aims to put an end to it.
Do you support H.R. 9309? Here is a link to contact your legislators.