Has Horse Slaughter haulted for American Horses ?

Press Release: Poisoned Horse Meat Impacts American Horse Slaughter Industry

by Lisa Drahorad on Monday, October 15, 2012 at 12:13pm ·

Poisoned Horse Meat Impacts American Horse Slaughter Industry

The news started trickling in on Friday with rumors of trucks filled with hundreds of horses bound for slaughter being turned away at the plants in Canada and Mexico. As equine advocates struggled to separate fact from fiction regarding this important turn of events for America’s horses, it appears that poisonous drugs found in the meat have forced the EU and the slaughter plants to finally make a stand and cease all slaughter of American horses. The EU is expected to make a statement on Monday, October 15.

American horsemeat contains hazardous carcinogens and other drugs like Phenylbutazone (Bute). Drugs that are clearly marked “Not intended for animals used for human consumption” but are commonly given to horses throughout their lives as they serve as working and companion animals to the American people. Despite these warnings, 1% of the total American horse populations, approximately 134,000 horses have been sent to slaughter every year. These numbers have remained constant and steady even with the closing of the last American slaughter plant in 2007.

"We all knew this was coming and have warned of it for years, yet the suddenness caught all by complete surprise. The EID (Equine Information Document) was the last chance for the horse slaughter industry and its agents to show they could be trusted to assure the safety of the horse meat that is their stock and trade. But their long history of flaunting environmental, transport, humane and other regulations made it inevitable that they would treat the drug residue issue as a joke. True to form, they are already blaming "animal rights" radicals." ~ John Holland, President of Equine Welfare Alliance

Congress has ignored the voice of 80% of Americans against slaughter but this decision by the EU could mean there is hope for our horses and could truly be the end of slaughter. With the option of slaughter being taken away, there would be hope that horse values will increase as mass breeding stops. The BLM would have to come up with another plan for the 45,000 wild mustangs currently in holding pens. People would no longer fear horse auctions as a place to sell their horses. Private auction bidders would no longer be outbid by kill buyers looking for horses to fill their load. Horse industry revenues would go up everywhere as a live horse provides more dollars to the economy over a slaughtered one.

We are estimating upwards of 5,000 horses are currently “lost” in the slaughter pipeline while agencies figure out next steps. It has become increasingly obvious that rescue organizations and individuals need to muster up and be ready for a call to action to help the horses that are now in this, albeit possibly temporary defunct slaughter pipeline.

For more information or if you can help the horses stuck in the slaughter pipeline, please contact Another Chance 4 Horses, www.ac4h.com, Christy Sheidy, Christy@ac4h.com 484-824-4904 or Lisa Drahorad, rovergrl@hotmail.com 856-287-4518.

Lisa Drahorad, Event Coordinator Another Chance 4 Horses
www.AC4H.com

Deadly Treats - 5 Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe

The other day a client told me about her friend who had recently lost their dog. This dog was quite young and a much-loved part of the family, so their sudden passing was quite a shock. 

Although the vet was not sure quite what had happened…the family suspected that it was related to their dog's treats. Just before she got sick, they started giving her treats made of dried chicken jerky. They did some research after finding out that similar treats had led to illness and death in other dogs, they felt like her death may have been the treats. 

I'm not sure what happened to that dog but those owners really believed it was the treats. Geeze, who thinks that their dog's treats could be deadly?

A recent recall of chicken jerky treats made in China made the news across the world and encouraged many dog lovers to think very carefully about the snacks they give their dogs.  Treats, table scraps and human foods can all cause problems in dogs. I want to give you a few tips on how to keep your dog healthy.

1. Don't Give Bones. Dogs are notorious for chewing on things they shouldn't and items given to dogs as “treats” can have grave effects. In particular, many people think that giving their dogs chicken or turkey bones during the holidays is a safe option, but they soon end up in the emergency room after their dog swallows one of the bones. The sharp edges can lead to bleeding, internal injuries, and worse.

2. Don't Feed Table Scraps. Another problem is that human food can contain toxic ingredients that can seriously poison your dog. The tasty onion rings, grapes, raisons or other high fat meals that you love can make your dog sick to your pet, especially if your pet is very small.

3. Be Careful With Treats. The best way to keep your dog safe from toxicity or injury due to treats is to only feed them treats which are designed for canine consumption.

4. Check Recalls. Regularly check the FDA recall list and make sure that their food or treats are not anywhere on there. Monitor your dog closely for any signs of injury or illness and if something feels “off,” trust your instincts. Stop giving your dog the treat immediately and call your vet if symptoms occur.

5. Pick Treats for Your Dogs Size. Treats that are too big or too small can cause problems by getting caught in your dog's mouth or esophagus. Items that are too small for your large dog can be easily swallowed.

I don't mean to scare you…there are still lots of great ways for your dog to enjoy both treats and toys in a safe and healthy way. One of my favorite ways to do this is with Spinz; they're a treat and a toy all in one!

Spinz is a 100% edible snack is made in the USA and spins around as your dog chews for twisty, turny fun. Spinz also help clean your dog's teeth, strengthen their gums, and freshen their breath. It's so many wonderful things in a small package.  It's a very neat treat.



The best options are those like Spinz with a variety of sizes so your dog gets exactly what they need.

Keep your dog safe! If you have a question about a treat to feed your dog – talk to your vet first to make sure it is safe.
Until next time,

Dr. Jon

Walk for Animal Protection in Mebane NC

Walk for Animal Protection (7th Annual)

Saturday, Oct 6 10:00a to 2:00p

 at Paws4Ever, Mebane, NC

 Bring the family--including the dogs! Join us for the 7th Annual Walk for Animal Protection at the Village Green in Southern Village to raise money for Paws4ever and the animals waiting to find their forever homes.

 10:00 am--2 pm

Activities, demonstrations, music, vendors and much more

Noon

2-mile fun walk led by a surprise Grand Marshall