Obama Moves to Block Horse Slaughter
NYTimes, Stephanie Strom, April 11, 2013
The Obama administration has included a proposal in its 2014 budget that would effectively ban the slaughter of horses for human consumption.
Technically, the proposal would prevent money from being spent on inspection of horse slaughtering facilities. Without inspections, facilities could not legally operate. The proposal was greeted enthusiastically by horse lovers and animal advocacy groups.
“This administration is wise to reject that path and to embrace the idea, even indirectly, that horses belong in the stable and not on the table,” said Wayne Pacelle, chief executive of the Humane Society of the United States, which contends that horses are given medicines that would be detrimental to humans who consume them.
But it was met with dismay by those who have been working to get slaughtering facilities up and running again.
“We’re going to go after them pretty hard about this,” said Dave Duquette, an advocate for horse slaughtering who has been working with several investors interested in slaughtering facilities.
The ban on horse inspections started with a provision in the 2007 budget. The last two slaughtering facilities in the country closed that year, and the number of horses shipped to Mexico and Canada for slaughter began to escalate. The provision was left out of the budget bill signed by President Obama in 2011.
The issue became prickly this year, after Ikea, Nestlé and other food companies found traces of horse meat mixed in with ground beef in products sold in Europe.
Read what the lawyer for the proposed NM facility had to say! – CLICK HERE
Hollie
Good for Obama!!!!!!!!!!! Does Blair Dunn eat horse meat? Do his “clients” eat horse meat? Hell no they don’t.
barbara struble
awww, a few investors are disappointed about not being able to slaughter innocent horses…Get a life…one that is filled with compassion would be nice
Amy Miller
Good for Obama, but it sounds as if the fight is not over.
Beverly Sanborn
It’s so hard to believe this administration is concerned with the quality of our food when they install Monsanto former employees over our food regulations. If it were this presidents true concern that horses not be slaughtered in the US, he would use one of the executive orders that he so freely exploits.
cheryl bush
,,,and _(*)_may the President be successful in getting across *Compassion*_(*)_Om Mani Padme Hum
shirley mix
Obama finally got something right. Congrats. President Obama I am proud of you for doing this.
Margaret Thurlow
Really they are worried that the humans that consume the horse meat might become ill!! I say if they do eat them they get what they deserve!!! These investors are really barking up the wrong tree. Horses should not be slaughtered and eaten. Let them put their money into the stock market and invest. Then they are the only ones that might be hurt. I say don’t provide funds to inspect and modify slaughter houses. Go President Obama.
Cindy
“A HARDSHIP” for investors. Is this an oxymoron or just a moron? Investors have A LOT of money so how will this be a hardship on them?
Whoever these few members of congress are that want to eliminate this, need to be eliminated.
Suzanne Moore
Yeah, I’d like the names of these members of Congress of whom she speaks. We’ll be watching for dirty tricks this time.
This time it’s in two budgets – Obama’s and the USDA’s.
If they DO actually have investors, they are the morons.
Dianna Martin
Exactly Cindy. The only thing those investors care about in this world is “MONEY”! They have no heart or compassion! We certainly don’t need those monsters in Congress! We have enough as it is!
karen
You got it Cindy! I love when reporters use the idiotic statements people make. Killing companion animals makes these guys opportunistic bottom feeders, but remember, people eat lamb, and if you have ever seen a lamb, that is pretty hard to believe.
Sally Moran
As always Barack uses intelligence and rationality to fix an issue. Yah!!
Sally Moran
Instead of this attys poor” investors killing a helpless animal to make a living let them get a real job and work morally and ethically like the rest of us!!!!
kat
well its about time kill no horse thanks Obama we need to love ours horses ride not eat them
Dina Farrell
I am sorry. As much as I love horses and could never bring myself to eat one. In this economy with the high prices of hay, grain and veternarian care. It is much more humane to send a horse to slaughter than starve it to death or let it die of neglect.
jfinch
There are other choices, but since you are pro-slaughter, you will never consider them. What in the world prompts you to be a voice of the for profit horse meat suppliers? Are you paid to promote their business? Why would you make a statement like that on this blog, if not to inspire a flame war?
Robynne Catheron
Dina, where in the world did you get the idea that horse slaughter was humane? Have you not been reading or listening to anything posted in this blog, or is this the first time you’ve read it, and you decided to chime in with your uneducated opinion? A lethal injection from a veterinarian is humane. Suffering violently through half a dozen bolts to the head and being dismembered while fully conscious is not. Please, please read up on this.
Annabelle
I think more people should be informed about the cost of horse care before they buy horses for their kids and themselves!
Suzanne Moore
I would assume that a person with any sense at all would do that anyway. Only an idiot would purchase horses without a clue of what is involved and how much it costs.
Suzanne Moore
Do you honestly think there are only two ways a horse can die? Slaughter or starvation? I’m managing to do ALL the same things for my horses as I did before the recession, and so are my friends. Not every horse owner is an irresponsible scum ball you know. In fact, most would sacrifice their OWN food to feed their horses – as hard as that might be for YOU to understand.
And then, there are those pesky banned substances…..
Dianna Martin
Dina, you obviously don’t love horses the way you claim.
LllL
Really I will give you a high caliber rifle to shoot horses. You obviously know nothing about the realities of horse slaughter.
Debbie Tracy
It is still a fight we have and in the bigger picture we need to STOP ALL HORSE SLAUGHTER, THe Bill: H.R.1094/S.541 is in Energy & Commerce we need to get it moving I have gotten in touch with Majority Leader Fred Upton in this committee, I think if we all push him we could get it out of there, I believe now there are 60 to 65 co-sponsers on this Bill, which is great but it needs to start moveing!!! Maybe I am reaching but it wouldn’t hurt right??
I do Thank Obama but he still could do more all of it needs to stop, time for it to once and for all be finished!!! But this IS GOOD NEWS for sure!!
suzie
What is the solution? Let these animals have a slow death of starvation? Pass them around from home to home because they are dangerous? Let them live out a long life with a debilitating injury ? Send them to Mexico to be slaughtered? I just don’t know. I am an owner of 3 horses. I have seen animals starved , it’s not pretty. We think helpless animal and yes that is true. But what kind of life are we giving them? It’s not greener patures!
jfinch
If you have seen horses starve, the it’s YOUR responsibility to call law enforcement, not stand there and think that the only alternative is slaughter. It is against the law in every state to deprive an animal of proper food, water and care. The slaughter industry is not about saving starving horses, It’s about getting as much meat as possible off the bones and selling it for a PROFIT. It is about money, not about starving horses. Less that 3% of slaughter horses are thin enough to be considered “starving.” 97% are fat and healthy. Posting here to repeat the mantra of the pro-slaughter slobs shows that you are buying their propaganda. Think for yourself, Susie.
Sue
::::pat::::pat:::pat::::—–>Jerry’s back
SAM
Right-on!!!!! (jfinch) Way to go!!!!
tks
Judy Wendt
If a horse has a debilitating injury, calling a vet and having the horse properly euthanized is the responsible, humane thing to do. Why do people want to make a profit off a horse until its dying day by selling it to a kill buyer for a torturous, horrible slaughter? What is wrong with people like this – did God forget to give them a heart? Jeez!
Suzanne Moore
Speak for yourself!
Aimee
No one is going to feel bad for those “clients” of Blair Dunn, because they jumped the gun. I would tend to think from a business standpoint that it would be a bad idea to restructure your outfit for something that was previously illegal on the premise that it MIGHT become legal again… and likely for a short window of time. No one buys that pity party. You’ll never hear someone say “Awww, that poor horse slaughterhouse owner….” That’s what you get for going into the business of killing.
Suzanne Moore
I understand from a very reliable source that the only “restructuring” that has been done is a new coat of paint – which was probably badly needed anyway.
Aimee
There is nothing humane about slaughter. HUMANE would be not being lazy, and taking the time to adopt your horses out to someone who can care for them. IF they are terminally ill the HUMANE option is to euthanize. I’m not sure when anyone thought that a sickly animal entering the food chain was a good idea either. Oh that’s right… they don’t care about human health OR animal welfare. It’s all about that mighty dollar. If you think that animals that are shipped to slaughter are treated in a humane manor, clearly, you have not watched enough YouTube video documentaries. Now, go do your homework.
Eileen Paramore
Thank you President Obama! This is a great success for us advocates against Horse Slaughter. Finally a big victory for the horse. Now the supporters of Horse slaughter are pissed because finally a huge ruling for the Horses. Money, lies, and manipulation didn’t work this time. This is such great news that it made my day. Finally i good thought for yjese magnificent animal.
Judy Wendt
In 2011 3 congressmen – Sen Herb Kohl (D-WI), Sen Roy Blunt (R-MO), and Rep Jack Kingston (R-GA) who is still on the Ag Appropriations committee used a closed-door trick to strip the 2006 ban against using USDA funds to inspect horse slaughter plants before the budget was signed, causing all this misery to communities across the nation fighting HS. Be aware. THIS COULD HAPPEN AGAIN!
Robynne Catheron
My humble opinion is that not funding inspections is strictly for monetary reasons, and has absolutely nothing to do with compassion for horses or any other animal. While I’ll be very thankful and grateful if this is signed into law, I won’t be thanking or praising Mr Obama for it. He has had many opportunities to do the right thing for our wild and domestic horses, and has continued to turn a blind eye and deaf ear to their plight.
Sue
Why so negative re: Obama? At least he was duly elected and not appointed by the Supreme Court!
Debra Gordon
Mr. Obama is under the gun for everything, every bill he signs. It is something to thank him for. Of all our presidents, I think he has had the most objection-ist Congress ever. After having sworn they would block everything he signs, now they are backtracking because 80% of Americans are against hs, and their jobs are on the line. Not to mention that a good number of them, their kids, their friends, most likely have horses they love. He has dropped the ball on a lot of things he could have done for our wild animals, but for this, I will indeed thank him. It is not enough, but it is a step in the right direction, and most likely will garner a lot of support in the days and months to come, damn the slaughter proponents. We don’t eat our horses, and if you have one that is sick, euthanize it. Plain and simple. Sending one of these sensitive animals, our pets, to slaughter just shows you really don’t love animals, and you hate horses, to let them go through something this nightmarish. My goodness!
Suzanne Moore
If Obama found the universal cure for every disease that has afflicted mankind, you would be nasty about the fact that he put doctors out of work.
You wouldn’t give him any credit no matter WHAT he did. FYI, Jim Moran already stated that President Obama was pushing Congress to end slaughter.
You remind me of the Republicans who voted against background checks for gun buyers because it was something Obama wanted. They even admitted it! Now, that’s contemptible.
Samantha
Everyone on this site posting comments are forgetting one very big thing…. Horses are LIVESTOCK. They are not your inside pets. They are livestock just like cows are. Whats the difference in slaughtering a cow over a horse? I am speaking from experience as I am a horse owner and I love my horses. I actually own about 25 head of them at any given time. If you don’t want your horse sent to slaughter hey thats great don’t do it, but don’t take away that opportunity from everyone. There are horses out there that noone wants or can take care of and instead of them being starved or turned out on public property for someone to hit or get hurt by let them go to slaughter. Just because people in the US do not eat horse meat doesn’t mean that other countries don’t. Everyone gripes about jobs and no money in the economy, well your are wanting to take these plants away that by the way create jobs and the money made off of this is taxed and therefore would go back to the government. Like I said you do not have to send your horses there but don’t take that away just because you don’t like it……
jfinch
Let’s see… I don’t like child abuse, but if others want to do it, that’s fine? Gee, I don’t like murder, but if someone else does it, I shouldn’t object? That’s kinda’ a twisted logic, isn’t it?
Readers – you probably noticed the increase in PRO-SLAUGHTER comments here. Slobby Sue and her forces are up in arms today. Don’t we all feel really sad for them?
Suzanne Moore
It’s heartbreakin, Jerry. Can’t take it – especially the part about horses being livestock because they are too big to take inside the house. Tell it to the FDA, Samantha. They consider horses to be companion animals. That’s WHY they permit horse medications and many other products to contain banned substances. DUH?
Besides, there is nothing in the definition of “livestock” that makes it necessary to be a food animal. Horses were always working animals, not food animals. And, most horses don’t even live on farms anymore, and the definition of “livestock” DOES include the words “farm animal.”
Sue
Honestly! I do not think there are really “unwanted” horses. I think there are horses that haven’t found their humans. They are ALL wanted by someone!
Samantha
Apparently you guys have never been around a wild or untamed crazy horse. Like I said I love my horses but that doesn’t mean that I want that option taken away.
jfinch
Samantha – Yes, I deal with wild, untamed horses every day. They are usually BLM horses that should never have been removed from their land in the first place, but they ended up being adopted by someone who has no idea about horses and never made any attempt to train them. Again, check your facts. 96% of slaughter horses are fat, healthy and gentle – That’s from the University of Colorado, not from a pro-slaughter propaganda machine that tries to make you believe that slaughter is a SERVICE to the horse world. It isn’t. It is there only for the money. Nothing else.
Lymn
Samantha. You do not care about horses. I will give you a high caliber rifle to shoot your horses. It is far more humane to shoot a horse at its home than send it to slaughter.Y
karen
Wow, what are you doing on this site?
karen
My comment was for Samantha who thinks horses are “livestock.’
Judy Wendt
What we call LIVESTOCK is just a human construction. In many, many states horses are classified as COMPANION ANIMALS – a more accurate description considering the function they have played and continue to play throughout history. Samantha – have you never heard of sanctuaries?
Kendra
Umm horses have been livestock for the last 300 years. They were farm animals or transportation. They were treated as a object of great importance because of what they could do for humans. I doubt very many people in the 1800’s and 1900’s considered them a companion animal unless they were a child. I have owned horses for 35 years. I have sent one horse to slaughter, do to his habit of tryin to kill children. Dangerous animals have no place on this earth. I agree that animals should not be sent to slaughter just for reasons as racing career is is the toilet, doesn’t want them any more. I think in the past years we have seen more horses at slaughter due to people losing their jobs and being unable to afford to keep them. They take them to a sale not knowing they are going to slaughter. It is sad, but a part of the economic downturn. Is that an excuse or being lazy…? No it is just the realty of a situation when a family finds out they have no paycheck next month. I understand that many people disagree with my beliefs and I disagree with most of yours. I would love for all horses to have a wonderful home that last forever…. But that is a fairy tale. They are livestock, they were put on this earth to function in the capacity that their owner needs them too. If I needed to feed my family, with no other options open to me, ole Nellie would be on the dinner table.
jfinch
Uh, Kendra, I don’t know if you get out much, but the economic downturn is pretty much over. You seem to think that horse slaughter is a service industry. You’re wrong – it is driven by supply and demand and the demand, as shown in the articles about horsemeat in beef, has been high. However, if you read the latest articles, you’ll find that the demand is way down, thus the numbers are dropping fast. Those folks aren’t here to help you in bad times by chopping up Ol’ Nellie, they are here for the profits shared by five companies in Europe. When the American supply drys up, and it will, they will simply get their horses from Argentina, Brazil of a hundred other countries.
In the meantime, if you see yourself trying to feed your family a horse, remember that it should be drug free. You do worm your horse, don’t you?
Readers – Isn’t it amazing that so many of the pro-slaughter crowd suddenly appears here with their insane dribble about “starving horses” and “livestock” and act like we’re a bunch of numb nuts that can’t see through their weak arguments? Like turning over an old rock, isn’t it. Sure wish they would come up with something new to talk about instead of the same illogical responses.
Judy Wendt
So, Kendra. You think horses were put on the earth for YOUR purposes? What arrogance. These are GOD’S CREATURES – not yours – so stop trying to put yourself above the creator.
Suzanne Moore
Do you also plan to inform the FDA that they are wrong to consider horses as companion animals? That’s why horse meds and other products are permitted to use banned substances – horses are NOT food animals.
There are ALWAYS other options. You just have to care enough to find them.
Laurel
Samantha, your statement is *ignorance gone to seed*! If you attended even one horse auction, you would see what horses enter the slaughter pipeline. At the Turlock, CA sale last month, there were 9 race horses, still wearing racing plates. They were bought by slaughter buyers for $150 and under apiece. Slaughter is NOT a humane euthanasia, by any stretch of the imagination. You said, “” I am speaking from experience as I am a horse owner and I love my horses. I actually own about 25 head of them at any given time””. Well, so does the kill-buyer and his feedlot. I am betting that if you ask any one of them, they will tell you they “love” horses.
Debra Gordon
Seriously? I am just amazed that you would even come on to this site with that point of view. You do NOT love your horses if you think slaughter is the way to “kindly” get rid of them! And there are horses no one wants because organizations like AQHA are still accepting money from backyard breeders who want that certificate, yet they do not put a moratorium on the breeding of them. It is a vicious circle where people breed more and more papered horses, when there is not a market for them, and then sell them for slaughter. It is a hypocritical bunch who poses as a horse loving organization, yet are for the slaughter of horses, knowing what they are like emotionally, and how cruel it is. “Create jobs”? are you living around a slaughter facility? It is a sure to halt development in any town they are in, and sure to increase psychological problems in the people who do it to survive. NO, you can go jump in the biohazard lake of the facility you are all for. You are wrong, as much as it is the wrong thing to do.
sherriey
oh jeeeezzzz….not another uneducated fool!
when, just when are these people going to do their homework before they pen idiotic words??????
some days all the good that happens can just be squashed b/c of some uneducated fool!
Kat
Horses are not LIVESTOCK nor were they ever meant to be eaten – I’ve had horses for 40+ years and when you refer to them as you’ve got 25 head – they aren’t horses and/or companions to you – Sure you can be technical and CALL them Livestock – but the truth is we domesticated these Livestock – we have bred them all like crazy – and now the answer is to open slaughter houses to kill them – so more can be stolen from farms (happens more often than people know) – OUR meat gets tainted – because I surely don’t want horse meat – not just because of my love for them – but because of the drugs that are in EVERY SINGLE HORSE in this country – I’m a licensed Vet Tech – I know what drugs like banamine – bute – supplements etc can do to US as humans –
As for jobs – seriously??? How many people are these horrible plants going to employ? Enough to help out the economy local or otherwise NO way – that’s a pathetic excuse to INHUMANELY slaughter a horse –
This thread is ridiculous – You may own and profess to love horses but you don’t love them or you wouldn’t want them hit in the head – hung up alive and left to slowly die. Don’t tell me that practice would change. (and yes I am quite aware of how inhumanely COWS are killed – it’s ALL brutal and not necessary for them to suffer like that).
Suzanne Moore
It’s especially ridiculous when one realizes that the defunding action will NOT stop the flow of our horses to Mexico and Canada. THAT will remain exactly the same. Get a grip, you pro-slaughter trolls. Are you that dumb, or do you just think WE are?
Beverly
People, please give credit where credit is due. It was not President Obama that did this, but rather Dept. of Agriculture Sec. Vilsack who added language to the FY14 budget submission to defund horse inspections. It was he also who asked for alternative ideas to slaughter not too long ago if I remember correctly. I think the USDA may now be recognizing the dangers to our food supply and to exporting the meat overseas for human consumption. If the current bills in the House and Senate should ever make it to President Obama for signature, then you need to put pressure on him to sign them into law.
Laurel
Thank you, Beverly. I was itchin’ to say that. Mr.Vilsack is our hero!
Judy Wendt
Secretary of Ag. Vilsack is a member of Obama’s cabinet. For choosing such an intelligent public servant Obama receives credit. Cabinet decisions are said to come from the administration.
I bet when Senators Kohl, Blunt, and Representative Kingston sneakily attached a rider to the Ag Appropriations bill allowing horse slaughter in the budget that passed in 2011 you vilified Obama directly rather than placing the blame on them.
Beverly
Judy, I did no such thing. I was completely aware of who was responsible and that Obama signed it into law. I am also aware that he had very little choice as this was only one aspect of a very large bill that had to be passed at the time. I’m not stupid. I did blame the three from the committee that met behind closed doors and gave into special interests. I don’t understand why you are attacking me – we are on the same side I think – please correct me if I am wrong. I do know a lot of people do blame Obama for signing that bill when he campaigned that he would support an end to horse slaughter, but I wasn’t one of them given the circumstances. I will admit that I am not a huge fan of Obama for a myriad of reasons that don’t belong here. However, this wasn’t one of them. Please get a grip! I just wanted to applaud Sec. Vilsack for goodness sake.
Judy Wendt
Mea culpa, Beverly. I have read too many posts blaming the prez directly for the action of 3 errant politicians – 1 democrat, and 2 republicans. By the way, Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA) is still on the Ag. Appropriations committee and should be watched very carefully.
I am politically an independent, having been disappointed by both sides. However, I noticed that of the 65 SAFE Act co-sponsors in the House, 45 are democrats and 19 are republican. Still very bi-partisan, but if we want this bill to pass, we need more republican representatives need to get on board.
The representative in my area, Greg Walden (R-OR) appears to back Dave Duquette’s desire to open a slaughterhouse 23 miles from my home. So, you see, I am a horse soldier on the front lines.
Beverly
Apology accepted. See, I thought we were on the same side. Wow though, I don’t blame you for being upset about Duquette’s plans. I sure wouldn’t want THAT in my back yard. And that’s part of this whole thing. No one should want this in their back yard. Why do those that want this awful thing to resume not realize that? I guess they haven’t read about what happened in Kaufman, TX since they go on and on about how it will create all these great jobs and the facilities will pay taxes (Federal and State) back which will make up for the taxpayer cost of the meat inspectors – NOT!!! Why would anyone believe that it would be any different this time than it was the last time? I thought we were supposed to learn something from history.
Laurel
I didn’t blame him at all, Judy. I blamed the sneaky politicians, and the corrupted system. Obama really had no choice at the time.
Suzanne Moore
He would sign it – if he ever got the chance. He voted anti-slaughter several times as a Senator.
debbie gustafson
Thank you Obama I hope and pray it isnt to late ,,,,,,,,,,,, Please stop this cruel act ! we as American’s are against horse slaughter , and dont eat horse meat ,, they are Gods gift to man..
Kathryn Turner
It is very sad that now you are going to do something about horse slaughter. When I got married in 2010 my ex-husband bought me three colts for our 1 month anniversary. 6 months later he made me get rid of them at an auction. I got 13 dollars for my two paints to a slaughter house and 200 from an individual for my buckskin. I loved my horses and they gave me the proper therapy that I needed. Isn’t it you who passed the okay for horse slaughter and now you want to ban it? Hopefully it was a lesson learned to you Mr. President!! Horses are great and they are a fabulous creature from God for man to use and for them to run free. Let their freedom reign in Jesus name!
Parker
If you loved your horses, you wouldn’t have gotten “rid” of them. If it was me in that situation I would have gotten “rid” of my husband.
Suzanne Moore
NO, Obama did not sign an OK to build horse slaughter plants in the US. See the comment above that explains the entire dirty trick by THREE legislators in a Sub-Conference Committee meeting late at night and behind closed doors. It was the Federal Budget and by now was a must sign to keep the government from shutting down. Pure political trickery.
Aimee
Horses are NOT livestock like cows… Horses are not raised for human consumption. They are not raised as food. They are raised much like an indoor pet… the ones we take to the vet for vaccinations, and medications which are also not meant to be consumed by humans. There is a big difference.
Deb
I agree with Samantha, horses are livestock…and to put slaughter in the same category with child abuse and murder is just stupid! Are you in favor of horses being classified as pets, and are you willing to license them like dogs? I work with Animal Control on neglect and abuse cases…where do you think these horses can go? Who takes them all in? Who pays for their care? Every rescue is full, every foster home is full and there are still horses needing homes…they do serve a purpose in slaughter and its not just for humans to eat. Dog food was much healthier when it contained horse meat; candles; fertilizer; baseballs…the list goes on and on for the uses of the body of a horse. Many animals we get are euthanized in the horse trailer and taken to the land fill…does that make you all feel better?
jfinch
If you truly work as an ACO, which I doubt, then you know the same thing can be said about dogs – shelters are full, few foster homes, etc, yet we don’t slaughter them for food. And yes, horses should be licensed, grade studs should be gelded and any stud should have a large license fee. Dog food? If humans should not eat horse meat because of the drugs, neither should dogs. If you indeed are euthanizing horses in a trailer, something is seriously wrong with your shelter. Please let me know the location of your shelter so the proper authorities can investigate.
Debra Gordon
There is not a candle, or soap, or fertilizer, or dog food I would buy my dogs if they contained horse. You are ignorant if you think this is humane. And you are even more ignorant if you euthanize horses in the horse trailer. Does it make you feel good to state these things, then to turn around and say you love your horses? Because you can’t be for slaughter and “love” your horses. It is just not possible. You don’t put someone you love through a meat grinder while they are still alive to feel it. I don’t think you understand that we love our horses enough to fight for them. That means you are the opposite, and it is not pretty.
Suzanne Moore
“Many animals we get are euthanized in the horse trailer and taken to the land fill…does that make you all feel better?”
It sure as hell does!
Josephine Carson
All is said above! I don’t agree with Dina! If you can’t afford them don’t have one! Find them a home, slaughter is not the solution!
Debbie Tracy
Honestly, I have never read anything negitive about horse slaughter on this site oh maybe here and there but NOT like this!! OH YEAH I feel bad for Sue and Daffy Duck for sure!!! NOT!
Listen if people have the time if you go to Sen. web site, there are all the e-mail add. of each Sen. person I have been doing that especially sending to the Majority ones, come on folks, takes some time but OH SO WORTH IT, you never know your voice might just sway some people to vote for 1094 ok thanks
Linda Jackson
I think that public land, with access to water, is the place to return the wild horses and burros currently in holding for slaughter; the corporate cowboys are grazing their cows there (on our land for free). Cows currently outnumber horses 50 to 1 according to Protect Mustangs Org. Fertility control drugs have been used on them; SpayVac, GonaCon, ZonaStat-H. Bute is used on domestic horses and none of this should be injested for good reason.
I’ve contacted the local American Indian tribes asking them to rescue/adopt domestic animals. You might contact those in your area, seeing that horses require pasture and water…wish humans were as easy to please.
We would be wise to work with Anne at Protect Mustangs Org as there is strenth in numbers.
cookie palassis
I have NEVER HATED OBAMA just don’t know his history, but I have always thought he was a very respectful and polite person…hope it’s true and hope it can get THIS done..
Nancy Albin
To Deb, can you look in the mirror or sleep at night? I am Nancy’s fight Against Animal Cruelty & I live (ed) with the “Wild Horses” no more since round ups they were taking care of themselves not bothering anything & we would love in the mornings cup of coffee with them in our yard I don’t want to live here anymore without the Mustangs. All of you for “Horse Slaughter” go to my web & see what they do to the horses & babies & if you still are for the slaughter houses then i suggest you pray for your soul cuz it is in troble. So Mote it Be
Nancy B
This is the best news in such a long time! Actually makes me feel very hopeful that there is an end to the madness of horse slaughter is in sight, at least for our American horses. Everyday I wear my “Until They are Safe” bracelet from Habitat for Horses. I think of him, the 15 hand branded QH gelding that died a horrible death in an American slaughter house in 2004. So heartbreaking! He was much like my own horses who will never know that horror.
The breeders need to be held responsible for every horse they bring into this world. The race industry also must be held accountable. I haven’t for years, and never will again give a dime to the AQHA, APHA or any breed registry that supports and endorses horse slaughter. Two of my four horses are registered which is now meaningless to me. These organizations are all about the money, not what’s best for the horses. My Pop was right, money makes people crazy!
Thank you so much Jerry for keeping us informed and updated. You inspire me and countless others I’m sure. God bless you and all you do for the horses every single day!
jfinch
I stood beside Mary Nash’s bed right before she passed on. Her last words to me were, “Never give up, Jerry. Never give up until they are safe.” Those words are inscribed on the bracelet that you and I both wear. My bracelet is worn to the point that the words are barely there, but I will wear it until the horses of America are safe from slaughter. Those who wear it, and there are many, represent the believers who share the dream and who will continue to fight until that dream is a reality. http://www.habitatforhorses.org/support-us/habitat-for-horses-online-store/
Parker
I just got one too. Let’s put an end to this!
Nancy B
Jerry – I didn’t know who Mary Nash was until I read your response to my comment. I’ve since read about her and visited the website still maintained in her honor. I’ve no doubt she is extremely proud of you, and all you do and have done for the horses. As I suspect you realize, she does know. And as for the bracelet that you and I and the others who share the dream wear, well… I’m even prouder now to wear it. And the words “Until They Are Safe” have a new demension to the depth of the emotion behind them.
kainoasgrl
He also needs to stop letting them ship horses out of the USA to other slaughter places!
jfinch
By “he” I am assuming you mean Obama. He cannot stop the shipment of horses, that’s a function of Congress, and that’s what the SAFE Act is about.
Judy Wendt
Exactly Jerry. Some people either don’t remember their high school civics or didn’t learn that CONGRESS passes bills. Presidents only sign them into law, including budgets.
This one year reprieve from horse slaughter from the ag. appropriations bill is in the federal budget congress is currently debating. It should be enough for the USDA to delay the application for inspection of the Valley Meat Co. in Roswell, NM. Their gamble to take a risk on horse slaughter was premature and they should lose their investor’s $$$$. That is how capitalism works.
Now, let’s not waste any time and get the bi-partisan SAFE Act passed. Currently there are 65 co-sponsors in the House and more are joining every day as their constituents call and/or email them.
Linda Taschereau
Thank You Mr. President , all the horse Angels , Persons , caring people ! EVERYONE !
Parker
I am so glad Obama has taken part in this. I am however totally scared for the horses who will still be slaughtered in other countries as before. I wish there was some way to stop export of USA horses to Canada and Mexico. That needs to be our next goal. Also if there was some sort of ban on breeding, that would be great too.
that would be great too.
jfinch
Your answer – SAFE Act – work to get it passed.
Parker
OK ! I will do everything I can to help! Thank you!
belinda hickam
it sickens me that this was ever allowed. please obama shut this down. they r slaughtering american history. we should hold the horse above all they have carried us down through history worked for us and still do. they r the most loyal of animals. stop the blm round-ups please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! don’t allow these heartless people to keep doing this
A true horse advocate.
The unfortunate part of this has been proven in the last several years. Horses will be slaughtered. There is no way to get around it. But right now horses are being shipped out of the country ( Mexico and Canada ) to be slaughtered. Theses places have NO regulation at all. If horses are slaughtered in the US, the USDA regulates it. They watch for cruelty very diligently. So If you support the continued ban on slaughter houses in this country, you support the cruel treatment of horses being shipped out of here. Once again Obama has acted before he has all of the facts.
jfinch
That is a bunch of BS! We had horse slaughter in this country and I can verify that the USDA did NOTHING to stop the cruelty. NOTHING! There was NO regulation, no oversight, no control. The “inspectors” spent most of the day in the office drinking coffee and playing on the computer. Why do you think anything would be different now? Maybe we should get Slobby Sue to watch over everyone since she loves horses so much?
You actually accuse Obama of acting before he has all the facts? Seriously? Why don’t you spend a couple of hours watching the videos taken in the US slaughterhouses before you start spouting “facts” and telling the rest of us about how wrong we are? We didn’t just get off the boat. Been there. Watched. Saw it all. The point is to STOP horse slaughter completely.
Suzanne Moore
I saw it too, Jerry. When I was helping my frantic friends whose horses had been stolen. Of course, we didn’t find the horses, but I got a better look at horse slaughter at Dallas Crown in Kaufman than I ever wanted. I will never forget what we saw and heard that day and it was over 20 years ago.
Judy Wendt
Oh, yeah, the USDA will regulate – NOT! The sanitation and cruelty violations in Kaufman, Texas is what finally resulted in the enforcement of the 1949 state law against killing horses and kick the foreign slaughterers out.
USDA inspectors are stretched too thin to inspect other meat operations adequately. Maybe you depend on that lack of oversight as a “true horse advocate” you certainly are not!!!!
Debra Gordon
What world are you living in? The USDA manages abuse?!? Watches very carefully? Where do you live exactly? ’cause it ain’t in this country. No one wants horse slaughter, “A True Horse Advocate” (not). If you think anyone wants American horse meat as a food, you are sadly mistaken. It is toxic because we love our horses. Your moniker is so badly misused it is not even funny. A true horse advocate works toward the cessation of their pain and suffering. Euthanasia is the way, NOT slaughter; a moratorium or huge breeding license fee, as JFinch suggested, is needed; responsible horse ownership, education, and fewer people like you owning horses is required. USDA oversight. You are out of your horse-hating mind.
MMeredith
I adopted a skinny, starving horse that was no longer usefull to its owners. He could no longer pound the pavement, but the kill buyer was ready to ship him out. He became the best loving horse, gaining weight, looking beautifull and riding great. Unfortunately his heart couldn’t sustain him and he had to be eauthanized. I would save as many as I could to keep from horrible misused bolt at a slauther house. Those that call them livestock don’t have a clue! They are companion animals that deserve better.
susan
If we can get horses reclassified as pets not livestock it would help. Horses are not raised for meat and food as other livestock. At least not in this country. Horses are treated like pets who happen to be big enough to ride. I have three. One came from an auction. She was headed for the Mexican slaughter houses. A horse rescue paid her fee (the amount the meat buyer would pay for her)and we offered to giver her a home. Healthy, intelligent 4 yr old green paint. So instead of becoming hamburger in Mexico she is being trained for gaming (pole bending and barrel racing) and she is good and loves it. Some people say only sick old horses go to slaughter. Our paint is proof that this is not true. The financial crisis has caused so many people to loose their homes and jobs and give up their beloved horses. That is the real problem. Responsible breeders have reduced the number of horses they produce because of the surplus of horses. Horses are bred to be intelligent, intuitive and sensitive. To rust and respect people. And what do they get for that?? A horrific trip to a cruel end. Slaughter is just as bad as the word sounds. They are in shock and traumatized and mistreated from the time they are put on the meat trailer and shipped thousands of miles without food and water, put into pens without vet care for injuries and then at the slaughter house they can see and hear the horses being killed before them. They know what is coming and if the spook they are beaten into submission or tranquilized. Horrible process. It goes way beyond whether the should be eaten. It is about how they are treated.
Daryl
So sad that some people believe in the BLM, think they are doing a good job, WRONG, they are liars, put out video’s of caring, even a vet walking around adn talking, it’s bull, they live in their own pee and crap, in the weather, harsh weather, hot and cold, no shade others in pens and covered don’t get the sun, wake up Americans, see through the bull, they are killing the horses for money, and doing it in horrible ways nothing should die that way. Please Lord help us.
Kami Dunn
I can honestly say that I agree with Suzanne above. We have given up many meals for our horses and we will continue to do “what we need to do” to always make sure they are always fed and cared for. WE made the choice to have them, take them in and to rescue the ones we have rescued. They didn’t just wander here and ask us for free room and board. In the fall of 2011 I was unemployed and we only had one income. Already having 2 horses here to take care of along with 3 dogs and 2 cats, mortgage, bills, etc… we took in a severely starved and neglected gelding age 4. He scored a .5-1 on the body scale. We have been through hell with this horse fighting to save his life, spending money that we didn’t have saved to save his life. The vets even told us to euthanize him at one point but we never gave up on him. That was 2 years ago and we’re still going strong. I still fight to pay the bills to bring him back to 100%, now including his shoeing bills, training, chiropractic, etc. BUT he is a magnificent animal who deserved a chance to live, not die at the hand of man either way… alone and hungry. It’s called dedication and compassion my friends. Most people don’t seem to have much of either these days. Yes we pay the high prices for hay, grain, etc but the payback is better than any one person could ever give to us. This society today is filled with greedy individuals who only think about themselves and money. What ever happened to the days of keeping promises to others and being kind? And on the topic of slaughter, “IF” it was humane.. I think the slaughter houses would openly welcome tours to the public instead of hiding behind closed doors and cement buildings not to mention the security they use to keep the general public out!! It amazes me how many people argue that their rights are taken away if the slaughter houses are closed forever, BUT what about MY RIGHTS to NO SLAUGHTER?? Did you ever think that you might be taking away my rights, my freedom of speech or my right to speak for those who can’t speak for themselves?
Judy Wendt
Bless you Kami Dunn!
Robynne Catheron
Kami, that was beautifully said. If everyone here on this thread was in agreement, a unified force, just think of the powerful voice we would possess! Those of us who truly love and respect horses want slaughter stopped, is that correct? It was never intended, and should not be happening. If we listen to those folks in the know, like Jerry Finch and RT Fitch, and do our own research on the actual facts about slaughter, we might find ourselves on the path to actually ending this senseless, horrific, money-grubbing practice once and for all.
Suzanne Moore
Right, Kami. In Texas we lived in constant fear of our horses being stolen. I don’t know how my friends stood it, knowing their beloved horses met such a horrific fate. I could barely stand it, and my horse wasn’t one of those taken – by pure luck. It could just as well have been him. It’s something you never really get over.
Robynne Catheron
Btw, I also wear my bracelet every single day, and yep, it’s getting a little worn down. But it’s my most treasured piece of jewelry, and the most rewarding fifteen bucks I’ve ever spent
Daryl
I want to believe it, but only time will tell, he has done nothing till now…hope-ing for the best.
Suzanne Moore
Daryl, didn’t your read Jerry’s post about the fact that it’s Congress that has to pass the bills. Obama can’t do anything if Congress continues to block all anti-slaughter legislation as they have for years.
FireHorse
Let’s also be responsible about breeding so that there aren’t enough horses to slaughter and then this becomes a NON-ISSUE.
Daryl
Are we to feel sorry about them doing things to the plant for getting ready to do horses, I don’t think so, don’t jump the gun fellows, this is your fault no one elses. If we get our way no one will be slaughtering horses ever again.
Barbara Carrino
Too bad for the investor they are MAD and Hurray! To Obama for blocking them We can all work this out where everyone is happy. Right. Come on people.. Don’t ever give up.. We need our Domesticated horse and the one that’s put a lot of hard work in for the owner of these beautiful Beast… Shame on you guys … God said to protect the innocent and the ones that can’t speak .. He didn’t say Slaughter. 8). BCinNJ Retired HomeHoundBound Rescue sending love from my animals and from New Jersey!
Daryl
Why can’t the president do some thing now to stop this horrible act apond the animals, 166,000 went to slaughter last year. I would like to see him put up a fight or the wild horses, save them & return them to the wild where they belong. What have these animals done to be treated like this?
Debra Gordon
I’ve been writing all the Congressmen and women for the last couple of weeks. Yesterday, Rep. Wolfe, VA, wrote me a letter he’d gotten from Rep. Tom Cole, who brought the letter I’d written to him to Wolfe. He said as my congressman, I am his constituent…” long story short, he voted to end slaughter, of course, being Republican he blamed Obama for allowing it in the first place. But the victory for me was that I know these others aren’t my politicians from my state. But it is a paper letter. It is a hard copy, that others will have to read before they pass it on to my congressman. Next, it is the Senate I’m targeting. It is not a grand statement of what I want to see done, but it is something I’m happy to do. So I write these hand written letters asking them all to support the SAFE Act, H.R.1094, then I say that 80% of all Americans support it. That’s it. I am reminding them of the population numbers, which I hope scares them into doing the right thing. They underestimate the numbers of people, often, who are for or against something. I made sure they knew it is a very large number who are against it. It is something, anyway.
Daryl
Lady what is your problem, you have others who do not agree with you? You are getting mad, well we are mad at the BLM, and all the crap they have pulled for ever. Do you see how it is, we want the wild horses treated nicely, cared for like they were to be when it was set up in the first place. Stop the round ups. Or do it better then you have been doing with animals dying, being hurt badly, run to death, run in to the fences, breaking legs etc, etc.
Debra Gordon
Daryl, I think you are railing at the choir. We know Obama has his hands tied to do only some things in the face of great opposition to everything he can do, that will be obstructed. He has stated that he is against horse slaughter. Now we have to hope that the Congress and Senate will work in cooperation to end the possibility of it ever coming in or ever again being overturned. I believe he is doing everything he can, given that the bills are so huge, and so filled with great and ridiculous legislation. We don’t have line item veto yet, so we have to trust, after we as a whole tell them, that the politicians will work WITH US, and not the sadistic horse killers, both here and abroad.