petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-28--Feds Cite Local Slaughterhouse After Pig Is Repeatedly Shot

Animal Cried Out and Tried to Stand Up After Being Shot—PETA Says Incident Warrants Public Scrutiny , Operational Overhaul Grand Junction , Colo. – Following federal officials ’ report documenting that a pig was repeatedly shot in the head , leaving the wounded animal crying out and struggling to stand between shots , at Mountain Meat Packing in Fruita , PETA has fired off a letter urging the owner to stop slaughtering pigs and to livestream video from the facility in order to help prevent workers from mishandling and abusing other animals during slaughter .
Or , preferably , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and switch to butchering only animals who ’ ve already been killed in collisions with vehicles and salvaged by customers , such as wild deer , elk , or moose .
“ Publicly livestreaming slaughter operations—or ending them altogether—would help prevent animals from experiencing agonizing , prolonged deaths , ” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch .
“ PETA is urging Mountain Meat Packing to overhaul its facility immediately and encouraging anyone disturbed by this incident to help keep animals out of slaughterhouses everywhere by going vegan.
” PETA—whose motto reads , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not ours to eat ” and which opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview—also asked what action Mountain Meat Packing has taken against the worker responsible for the botched shooting , such as reporting him to local law enforcement and reassigning him to a position that doesn ’ t involve contact with live animals .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .
PETA ’ s letter to Gary Baysinger , owner of Mountain Meat Packing , follows .
Given the recent U.S. Department of Agriculture report documenting the repeated shooting of a pig @ @ @ @ @ @ @ animal crying out and struggling to stand at Mountain Meat Packing , we ask that you immediately make changes to your operations in order to reduce animal suffering at your Fruita slaughterhouse .
In light of the egregious pain and terror that your staff caused this pig to endure in violation of federal law , won ’ t you please stop slaughtering these animals ?
Rather than risk committing similar violations in the future , you could focus on minimizing the stress and suffering of the other farmed animals you slaughter .
Would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of your facility where live animals are handled ?
Your workers would surely take more seriously their duty to handle animals lawfully if they knew that people were watching .
The world ’ s foremost expert on livestock welfare , Dr. Temple Grandin of Colorado State University , writes , “ Plants [ t ] hat are doing a good job should show what they are doing.
” Members of your industry often complain that consumers today don ’ t understand how animals are raised and killed for food .
You could shed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to observe your workers as they move countless animals—individuals who value their own lives as much as humans do—off crowded trucks in all weather extremes , attempt to stun them , slash or stick their throats , and then bleed them to death .
What action , if any , have you taken against your staff member referenced in the report ?
Have you reassigned him to a job that doesn ’ t involve contact with live animals—such as evisceration , butchering , and packaging—and reported him to your local law enforcement agency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible violations of Colorado ’ s anti-cruelty statute ?
Finally , if you want to stay in business without causing animals to suffer and die needlessly , you could switch to butchering exclusively wild deer , elk , or moose killed in collisions with vehicles and legally salvaged by customers who wish to eat their flesh , as state law allows .
Thank you for your consideration .

Animal Cried Out and Tried to Stand Up After Being Shot—PETA Says Incident Warrants Public Scrutiny, Operational Overhaul
For Immediate Release:
May 28, 2020
Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382
Grand Junction, Colo. – Following federal officials’ report documenting that a pig was repeatedly shot in the head, leaving the wounded animal crying out and struggling to stand between shots, at Mountain Meat Packing in Fruita, PETA has fired off a letter urging the owner to stop slaughtering pigs and to livestream video from the facility in order to help prevent workers from mishandling and abusing other animals during slaughter. Or, preferably, the facility could stop killing farmed animals altogether and switch to butchering only animals who’ve already been killed in collisions with vehicles and salvaged by customers, such as wild deer, elk, or moose.
“Publicly livestreaming slaughter operations—or ending them altogether—would help prevent animals from experiencing agonizing, prolonged deaths,” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “PETA is urging Mountain Meat Packing to overhaul its facility immediately and encouraging anyone disturbed by this incident to help keep animals out of slaughterhouses everywhere by going vegan.”
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat” and which opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview—also asked what action Mountain Meat Packing has taken against the worker responsible for the botched shooting, such as reporting him to local law enforcement and reassigning him to a position that doesn’t involve contact with live animals.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.
PETA’s letter to Gary Baysinger, owner of Mountain Meat Packing, follows.
May 28, 2020
Gary Baysinger
Owner
Mountain Meat Packing, Inc.
Dear Mr. Baysinger,
Given the recent U.S. Department of Agriculture report documenting the repeated shooting of a pig in the head that left the wounded animal crying out and struggling to stand at Mountain Meat Packing, we ask that you immediately make changes to your operations in order to reduce animal suffering at your Fruita slaughterhouse.
In light of the egregious pain and terror that your staff caused this pig to endure in violation of federal law, won’t you please stop slaughtering these animals? Rather than risk committing similar violations in the future, you could focus on minimizing the stress and suffering of the other farmed animals you slaughter.
Would you publicly livestream video from all areas of your facility where live animals are handled? Your workers would surely take more seriously their duty to handle animals lawfully if they knew that people were watching. The world’s foremost expert on livestock welfare, Dr. Temple Grandin of Colorado State University, writes, “Plants [t]hat are doing a good job should show what they are doing.” Members of your industry often complain that consumers today don’t understand how animals are raised and killed for food. You could shed light on this by allowing the public to observe your workers as they move countless animals—individuals who value their own lives as much as humans do—off crowded trucks in all weather extremes, attempt to stun them, slash or stick their throats, and then bleed them to death.
What action, if any, have you taken against your staff member referenced in the report? Have you reassigned him to a job that doesn’t involve contact with live animals—such as evisceration, butchering, and packaging—and reported him to your local law enforcement agency so that he might be investigated for possible violations of Colorado’s anti-cruelty statute?
Finally, if you want to stay in business without causing animals to suffer and die needlessly, you could switch to butchering exclusively wild deer, elk, or moose killed in collisions with vehicles and legally salvaged by customers who wish to eat their flesh, as state law allows. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Colin Henstock
Assistant Manager of Investigations


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-28--Bill Maher’s New Rule: ‘Stop Torturing Monkeys’

New PETA Video Condemns Government Waste on Cruel Monkey Fright Experiments While People Die Without Vaccines and Ventilators Washington – “ New rule : Stop torturing monkeys .
You heard me , ” begins Bill Maher in a new PETA video , shot amid the COVID-19 pandemic , that takes aim at government-funded “ psychology experiments ” on monkeys .
“ For the last 13 years , the National Institutes of Health ( NIH ) has given $ 36 million—that ’ s taxpayer money—to Elisabeth Murray , an experimenter who spends her days sawing open monkeys ’ skulls and pumping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explains .
“ Then , she throws the monkeys in a small black box and scares them shitless with fake snakes and spiders .
When she ’ s done , she kills them or recycles them into other experiments.
” Murray ’ s tests purport to help mental health— “ If that sounds like bullshit , it ’ s because it is , ” says Maher—but have never led to the development of a single treatment for humans .
Maher goes on to say , “ That ’ s what our government has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ real health crisis—like COVID-19 .
That ’ s what your taxes were paying for instead of ventilators.
” Maher encourages viewers to call NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins and urge him to yank funding for the experiments .
“ And please , be polite , ” he says .
“ Now , can someone send Dr. Murray a calendar so she can see that this is the 21st century ?
” Maher ’ s video follows a recent appeal from Anjelica Huston and a drive-by protest held by PETA outside Collins ’ and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ building .
PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to experiment on ” —opposes speciesism , which is a human-supremacist worldview .
For more information , please visit PETA.org or click here .

New PETA Video Condemns Government Waste on Cruel Monkey Fright Experiments While People Die Without Vaccines and Ventilators
For Immediate Release:
May 28, 2020
Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382
Washington – “New rule: Stop torturing monkeys. You heard me,” begins Bill Maher in a new PETA video, shot amid the COVID-19 pandemic, that takes aim at government-funded “psychology experiments” on monkeys.
“For the last 13 years, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has given $36 million—that’s taxpayer money—to Elisabeth Murray, an experimenter who spends her days sawing open monkeys’ skulls and pumping their brains with toxins,” he explains. “Then, she throws the monkeys in a small black box and scares them shitless with fake snakes and spiders. When she’s done, she kills them or recycles them into other experiments.”
Murray’s tests purport to help mental health—“If that sounds like bullshit, it’s because it is,” says Maher—but have never led to the development of a single treatment for humans. Maher goes on to say, “That’s what our government has been doing instead of preparing for a real health crisis—like COVID-19. That’s what your taxes were paying for instead of ventilators.”
Maher encourages viewers to call NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins and urge him to yank funding for the experiments. “And please, be polite,” he says. “Now, can someone send Dr. Murray a calendar so she can see that this is the 21st century?”
Maher’s video follows a recent appeal from Anjelica Huston and a drive-by protest held by PETA outside Collins’ and Murray’s homes and the NIH building.
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to experiment on”—opposes speciesism, which is a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org or click here.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-28--Asheville PetSmart Store Warned About State Animal Welfare Regulations

'Nasal and Fecal Matter ' Found on Cat Enclosure ; Stay Away , Says PETA Asheville , N.C. – PETA has reviewed damning North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services ( NCDA & CS ) records from between June 2018 and February 2020 that reveal that 20 PetSmart stores in the state—including one in Asheville—were ordered to improve conditions for animals in order to comply with the state ’ s Animal Welfare Act ( AWA ) .
In November 2018 , an NCDA & CS inspector noted that “ [ n ] asal and fecal matter ” were found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the store on Swannanoa River Road and that shelves stacked up for later use also had fecal matter on them and appeared dirty .
In February 2020 , the inspector noted that a climbing tower had been chewed , exposing wood , which can not be disinfected .
“ Any person who takes care of animals is required to provide them with clean living conditions , veterinary care , and other basic necessities , and a billion-dollar company shouldn ’ t consider itself above the law , ” says PETA Senior Vice President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports of suffering animals for sale at big-box stores , and our advice to caring consumers is to stick with stores that don ’ t sell live animals.
” The NCDA & CS records reveal that PetSmart stores also came under fire in Fayetteville , Wilmington , Jacksonville , Charlotte , Winston-Salem , Wilkesboro , Burlington , Lexington , and eight other cities across the state .
According to the records , cats were caged with filthy litter boxes , seemingly sick and sneezing cats were found on display in four stores , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12:50 p.m. found that the cats there had yet to be fed that day , and nine stores were told to improve their recordkeeping for animals offered for adoption .
A Charlotte store was also assessed a $ 500 penalty for failing to provide veterinary care to Beethoven , a dog who developed a painful , inflamed scrotum while being boarded at its kennel .
The NCDA & CS also cited the PetSmart store near Asheboro for at least 23 violations of the AWA and warned that further violations may result in penalties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and action against its license to operate .
Online stores that aren ’ t affiliated with chains that sell animals , like PetSmart , include Target , PetFlow , and Wag.com .
PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to abuse in any way ” —opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .

'Nasal and Fecal Matter' Found on Cat Enclosure; Stay Away, Says PETA
For Immediate Release:
May 28, 2020
Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382
Asheville, N.C. – PETA has reviewed damning North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) records from between June 2018 and February 2020 that reveal that 20 PetSmart stores in the state—including one in Asheville—were ordered to improve conditions for animals in order to comply with the state’s Animal Welfare Act (AWA).
In November 2018, an NCDA&CS inspector noted that “[n]asal and fecal matter” were found on cat enclosures’ glass surfaces at the store on Swannanoa River Road and that shelves stacked up for later use also had fecal matter on them and appeared dirty. In February 2020, the inspector noted that a climbing tower had been chewed, exposing wood, which cannot be disinfected.
“Any person who takes care of animals is required to provide them with clean living conditions, veterinary care, and other basic necessities, and a billion-dollar company shouldn’t consider itself above the law,” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “PETA regularly receives reports of suffering animals for sale at big-box stores, and our advice to caring consumers is to stick with stores that don’t sell live animals.”
The NCDA&CS records reveal that PetSmart stores also came under fire in Fayetteville, Wilmington, Jacksonville, Charlotte, Winston-Salem, Wilkesboro, Burlington, Lexington, and eight other cities across the state. According to the records, cats were caged with filthy litter boxes, seemingly sick and sneezing cats were found on display in four stores, an agent who inspected one store at 12:50 p.m. found that the cats there had yet to be fed that day, and nine stores were told to improve their recordkeeping for animals offered for adoption. A Charlotte store was also assessed a $500 penalty for failing to provide veterinary care to Beethoven, a dog who developed a painful, inflamed scrotum while being boarded at its kennel.
The NCDA&CS also cited the PetSmart store near Asheboro for at least 23 violations of the AWA and warned that further violations may result in penalties of up to $5,000 per violation and action against its license to operate.
Online stores that aren’t affiliated with chains that sell animals, like PetSmart, include Target, PetFlow, and Wag.com.
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-28--Mark Cuban’s Bid to Buy Hot Dog Chain Nets Vegan Proposal

PETA Asks Vegan-Food Investor to Turn Pittsburgh 's Original Hot Dog Shop Into a New Spot for Veggie Dogs Pittsburgh , Pa. – Mark Cuban recently revealed that he ’ s planning to purchase Pittsburgh ’ s Original Hot Dog Shop—which closed quietly last month—so PETA sent him a letter this morning offering the vegan-brand investor and vegetarian a foolproof business proposal : Dump the carcinogenic meaty hot dogs and turn “ The O ” into a vegan hot dog chain .
“ Delicious veggie dogs could be the ticket to success for Mark Cuban ’ s latest venture , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lange .
“ PETA is urging Cuban to jump on this opportunity to revive a Pittsburgh institution in a way that protects animals , the environment , and the health of the city ’ s residents.
” PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to eat ” and which opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview—notes that the demand for vegan meats is skyrocketing : Sales were up 158 % year on year , and amid a pandemic that originated in a meat market , they ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your interview on The Pat McAfee Show and learned of your plan to buy Pittsburgh ’ s Original Hot Dog Shop .
If the purchase goes through , why don ’ t you make the “ O ” vegan ?
As a vegetarian and an investor in multiple vegan brands on Shark Tank , you already know that vegan eating is delicious and healthy , saves animals , and is the single best way to fight climate change .
Of course , it also makes great business sense .
Since COVID-19 originated in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ H5N1 bird flu had earlier ) , more people have become aware of similar conditions on factory farms and in slaughterhouses in the U.S. , where extreme cruelty and crowding create a breeding ground for pathogens that can be transmitted from other species to humans .
What do you think ?
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions .
We ’ re always more than happy to help .
Thanks so much !
All the best ,

PETA Asks Vegan-Food Investor to Turn Pittsburgh's Original Hot Dog Shop Into a New Spot for Veggie Dogs
For Immediate Release:
May 28, 2020
Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382
Pittsburgh, Pa. – Mark Cuban recently revealed that he’s planning to purchase Pittsburgh’s Original Hot Dog Shop—which closed quietly last month—so PETA sent him a letter this morning offering the vegan-brand investor and vegetarian a foolproof business proposal: Dump the carcinogenic meaty hot dogs and turn “The O” into a vegan hot dog chain.
“Delicious veggie dogs could be the ticket to success for Mark Cuban’s latest venture,” says PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange. “PETA is urging Cuban to jump on this opportunity to revive a Pittsburgh institution in a way that protects animals, the environment, and the health of the city’s residents.”
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat” and which opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview—notes that the demand for vegan meats is skyrocketing: Sales were up 158% year on year, and amid a pandemic that originated in a meat market, they’ve increased by 454%.
For more information, visit PETA.org.
PETA’s letter to Cuban follows.
Dear Mark,
We saw your interview on The Pat McAfee Show and learned of your plan to buy Pittsburgh’s Original Hot Dog Shop. If the purchase goes through, why don’t you make the “O” vegan? As a vegetarian and an investor in multiple vegan brands on Shark Tank, you already know that vegan eating is delicious and healthy, saves animals, and is the single best way to fight climate change. Of course, it also makes great business sense. Since COVID-19 originated in a live-animal market (as SARS and H5N1 bird flu had earlier), more people have become aware of similar conditions on factory farms and in slaughterhouses in the U.S., where extreme cruelty and crowding create a breeding ground for pathogens that can be transmitted from other species to humans.
What do you think?
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. We’re always more than happy to help. Thanks so much!
All the best,
Matt Kilbourne
PETA


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-28--Wilkesboro PetSmart Store Repeatedly Warned About Animal Welfare Law

Inspection Finds Apparently Sick and Sneezing Cats ; Stay Away , Says PETA Wilkesboro , N.C. – PETA has reviewed damning North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services ( NCDA & CS ) records from between June 2018 and February 2020 revealing that 20 PetSmart stores in the state—including one in Wilkesboro—were ordered to improve conditions for animals in order to comply with the state ’ s Animal Welfare Act ( AWA ) .
In July 2018 , an NCDA & CS inspector at the store on Winkler Mill Road observed a cat on display sneezing—and in January 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” and “ nasal secretions , ” with some mucus evident on the front of the cage .
During that visit , the inspector also noted a buildup of litter and kibble on the floor and suggested a “ deep cleaning.
” In July 2019 , the inspector noted that approximately half the records viewed for animals adopted from the facility lacked proof of vaccination .
“ Any person who takes care of animals is required to provide them with veterinary care , clean living conditions , and other basic necessities , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ itself above the law , ” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch .
“ PETA regularly receives reports of suffering animals for sale at big-box stores , and our advice to caring consumers is to stick with stores that don ’ t sell live animals.
” The NCDA & CS records reveal that PetSmart stores also came under fire in Fayetteville , Wilmington , Jacksonville , Asheville , Winston-Salem , Charlotte , Burlington , Lexington , and eight other cities across the state .
According to the records , cats were caged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sneezing cats were found on display in three other stores , an agent who inspected one store at 12:50 p.m. found that the cats there had yet to be fed that day , and eight other stores were told to improve their recordkeeping for animals offered for adoption .
The Charlotte store was also assessed a $ 500 penalty for failing to supply veterinary care to Beethoven , a dog who developed a painful , inflamed scrotum while being boarded at the store ’ s kennel .
The NCDA & CS also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least 23 violations of the AWA and warned that further violations may result in penalties of up to $ 5,000 per violation and action against its license to operate .
Online stores that aren ’ t affiliated with chains that sell animals include Target , PetFlow , and Wag.com .
PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to abuse in any way ” —opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .

Inspection Finds Apparently Sick and Sneezing Cats; Stay Away, Says PETA
For Immediate Release:
May 28, 2020
Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382
Wilkesboro, N.C. – PETA has reviewed damning North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) records from between June 2018 and February 2020 revealing that 20 PetSmart stores in the state—including one in Wilkesboro—were ordered to improve conditions for animals in order to comply with the state’s Animal Welfare Act (AWA).
In July 2018, an NCDA&CS inspector at the store on Winkler Mill Road observed a cat on display sneezing—and in January 2019, another cat had “draining eyes” and “nasal secretions,” with some mucus evident on the front of the cage. During that visit, the inspector also noted a buildup of litter and kibble on the floor and suggested a “deep cleaning.” In July 2019, the inspector noted that approximately half the records viewed for animals adopted from the facility lacked proof of vaccination.
“Any person who takes care of animals is required to provide them with veterinary care, clean living conditions, and other basic necessities, and a billion-dollar company shouldn’t consider itself above the law,” says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “PETA regularly receives reports of suffering animals for sale at big-box stores, and our advice to caring consumers is to stick with stores that don’t sell live animals.”
The NCDA&CS records reveal that PetSmart stores also came under fire in Fayetteville, Wilmington, Jacksonville, Asheville, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Burlington, Lexington, and eight other cities across the state. According to the records, cats were caged with filthy litter boxes, seemingly sick and sneezing cats were found on display in three other stores, an agent who inspected one store at 12:50 p.m. found that the cats there had yet to be fed that day, and eight other stores were told to improve their recordkeeping for animals offered for adoption. The Charlotte store was also assessed a $500 penalty for failing to supply veterinary care to Beethoven, a dog who developed a painful, inflamed scrotum while being boarded at the store’s kennel.
The NCDA&CS also cited the PetSmart store near Asheboro for at least 23 violations of the AWA and warned that further violations may result in penalties of up to $5,000 per violation and action against its license to operate.
Online stores that aren’t affiliated with chains that sell animals include Target, PetFlow, and Wag.com.
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-28--How to Buy the Best Vegan Cheese Without Ever Leaving Home

Why would you buy congealed milk stolen from a mother cow when the yummiest vegan cheeses are just a few clicks away ?
( Spoiler alert : You wouldn ’ t . )
From vegan cheddar to dairy-free feta , the internet truly has it all .
So leave the coagulated cow ’ s milk on the shelf and buy these online instead : If you ’ re making vegan grilled cheese , chances are you ’ re in need of some nondairy American cheese .
Opt for Daiya ’ s American Style Slices—find them online at Target or Vegan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recipes call for shredded vegan cheese—and thankfully , Miyoko ’ s Creamery now offers vegan shreds , too .
Extra-thankfully , you can buy them online via Mercato : Order yourself some Farmhouse Cheddar or Pepper Jack vegan shredded cheese .
What ’ s a vegan cheese list without a Violife shout out ?
Thanks to Vegan Essentials , you can get Violife vegan cheddar shreds , slices , blocks , and even vegan cheddar cream cheese delivered straight to your front porch ( perfect for when you ’ re staying home ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood and pus from cows ’ infected udders , dairy provolone contains a hidden ingredient : cruelty .
Luckily , Field Roast ’ s Creamy Original Chao Slices are super-delicious and contain none of the above .
Order yours from Target or Vegan Essentials .
Perfect for a fresh caprese salad or veggie wrap , MozzaRisella ’ s products perfectly mimic dairy cheese , without the needless suffering .
Try the classic mozzarella or the smoked kind .
You know those shaker bottles of grated Parmesan cheese ?
Now that you know dairy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not milk machines or food—choose vegan Parmesan options like the ones from Follow Your Heart , GO VEGGIE , and Thrive Market .
I used to eat brie cheese made with cow ’ s milk back before I realized that cows are as relatable and individual as the two dogs I share my home and heart with .
Now , I eat vegan brie cheese , and the organic unbrielievable wedge by Nuts for Cheese is easily a favorite .
Speaking of cream cheese , if you can ’ t find fan favorite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your local Kroger or Aldi grocery store , you can still find it online—it ’ s the perfect accompaniment to any bagel .
“ It is so creamy and smooth , ” one reviewer commented .
The only thing worse than stolen congealed milk is moldy stolen congealed milk .
Instead , make the center of your vegan charcuterie board a delicious vegan blue cheese , like the cultured artisan one by The Frauxmagerie .
Whether you ’ re making a vegan spanakopita , tabbouleh , or a Greek salad , you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feta .
Esti ’ s plant-based feta-style block is perfect for all of the above—plus , the main ingredient is coconut oil , so it ’ s practically a superfood .
Goats wag their tails and form strong bonds with one another , just like the dogs we call our best friends .
But just like cows , goats are abused and killed for their milk .
Leave goat cheese on the shelf and order some creamy vegan cheese by Spero Foods instead .
Like dairy-free goat cheese , vegan Gorgonzola is delicious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Fauxgonzola , made with cashews and spirulina .
When you can ’ t make it to Lassens or your local grocery store , order it online via Azure Standard !
Some ricotta cheese is made of sheep ’ s milk .
When sheep are depressed , they hang their heads and avoid company ( much like humans ) , but when they ’ re content , they socialize and wag their tails ( like dogs and goats ) .
Give them something to wag their tails about—opt for vegan almond ricotta @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Girls Vegan Creamery .
Just like humans , mother cows carry their babies for nine months and produce milk to nurse them .
So the only way for humans to consume it—the only way to make dairy cheese—is to tear the cow ’ s baby away from her and steal her milk .
Whether from a cow , a goat , or a sheep , cheese and other dairy “ products ” cause animal suffering .
Please , ditch dairy cruelty , buy vegan cheese online , and go vegan now .
Click @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help cows who are exploited for milk and cheese .

May 28, 2020 by Katherine Sullivan Last Updated May 24, 2021. Publishedby
Why would you buy congealed milk stolen from a mother cow when the yummiest vegan cheeses are just a few clicks away? (Spoiler alert: You wouldn’t.) From vegan cheddar to dairy-free feta, the internet truly has it all. So leave the coagulated cow’s milk on the shelf and buy these online instead:
Vegan American Cheese
If you’re making vegan grilled cheese, chances are you’re in need of some nondairy American cheese. Opt for Daiya’s American Style Slices—find them online at Target or Vegan Essentials.
Vegan Shredded Cheese
Most vegan pizza and taco recipes call for shredded vegan cheese—and thankfully, Miyoko’s Creamery now offers vegan shreds, too. Extra-thankfully, you can buy them online via Mercato: Order yourself some Farmhouse Cheddar or Pepper Jack vegan shredded cheese.
Vegan Cheddar Cheese
What’s a vegan cheese list without a Violife shout out? Thanks to Vegan Essentials, you can get Violife vegan cheddar shreds, slices, blocks, and even vegan cheddar cream cheese delivered straight to your front porch (perfect for when you’re staying home).
Vegan Provolone Cheese
In addition to possible traces of blood and pus from cows’ infected udders, dairy provolone contains a hidden ingredient: cruelty. Luckily, Field Roast’s Creamy Original Chao Slices are super-delicious and contain none of the above. Order yours from Target or Vegan Essentials.
Vegan Mozzarella Cheese
Perfect for a fresh caprese salad or veggie wrap, MozzaRisella’s products perfectly mimic dairy cheese, without the needless suffering. Try the classic mozzarella or the smoked kind.
Vegan Parmesan Cheese
You know those shaker bottles of grated Parmesan cheese? Now that you know dairy cheese comes from cows—who are friends, not milk machines or food—choose vegan Parmesan options like the ones from Follow Your Heart, GO VEGGIE, and Thrive Market.
Vegan Brie Cheese
I used to eat brie cheese made with cow’s milk back before I realized that cows are as relatable and individual as the two dogs I share my home and heart with. Now, I eat vegan brie cheese, and the organic unbrielievable wedge by Nuts for Cheese is easily a favorite.
Vegan Cream Cheese
Speaking of cream cheese, if you can’t find fan favorite Better Than Cream Cheese by Tofutti at your local Kroger or Aldi grocery store, you can still find it online—it’s the perfect accompaniment to any bagel. “It is so creamy and smooth,” one reviewer commented.
Vegan Blue Cheese
The only thing worse than stolen congealed milk is moldy stolen congealed milk. Instead, make the center of your vegan charcuterie board a delicious vegan blue cheese, like the cultured artisan one by The Frauxmagerie.
Vegan Feta Cheese
Whether you’re making a vegan spanakopita, tabbouleh, or a Greek salad, you’re probably going to want some vegan feta. Esti’s plant-based feta-style block is perfect for all of the above—plus, the main ingredient is coconut oil, so it’s practically a superfood.
Vegan Goat Cheese
Goats wag their tails and form strong bonds with one another, just like the dogs we call our best friends. But just like cows, goats are abused and killed for their milk. Leave goat cheese on the shelf and order some creamy vegan cheese by Spero Foods instead.
Vegan Gorgonzola Cheese
Like dairy-free goat cheese, vegan Gorgonzola is delicious crumbled over a salad. Try Reine’s Fauxgonzola, made with cashews and spirulina. When you can’t make it to Lassens or your local grocery store, order it online via Azure Standard!
Vegan Ricotta Cheese
Some ricotta cheese is made of sheep’s milk. When sheep are depressed, they hang their heads and avoid company (much like humans), but when they’re content, they socialize and wag their tails (like dogs and goats). Give them something to wag their tails about—opt for vegan almond ricotta, shipped straight to you from Three Girls Vegan Creamery.
*****
Just like humans, mother cows carry their babies for nine months and produce milk to nurse them. So the only way for humans to consume it—the only way to make dairy cheese—is to tear the cow’s baby away from her and steal her milk. Whether from a cow, a goat, or a sheep, cheese and other dairy “products” cause animal suffering. Please, ditch dairy cruelty, buy vegan cheese online, and go vegan now. Click on the button below to do more to help cows who are exploited for milk and cheese.
Feeling Mooved? Take Action for Cows!


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-28--Did Your AKC-Registered Dog Become Ill or Violent or Die Prematurely? Let Us Know

Did you purchase a Labrador retriever who suffers from chronic eye issues, a Dalmatian who is hearing-impaired, or a pug who has extreme difficulty breathing? If so, you’re not alone. Many purebred dogs become ill, exhibit behavioral issues, or die prematurely because of traits they were bred to have in order to meet standards set by the American Kennel Club. If you purchased a dog such as a Bloodhound, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, or dog of another AKC-registered breed who struggles with their health, behavior, or who died prematurely, we want to hear from you. Please contact us using the form below:
All fields in bold are mandatory. FormBuilder Form - 3858 First name Last name City State ** please choose ** AL AK APO AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL FM FPO GA GU HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MH MI MN MS MO MT MP NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA PR RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA DC WV WI WY Country/Region ** please choose ** United States Zip Code E-mail Tel. Breed


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-29--‘Grim Reapers’ to Haunt Downtown Crete

‘Grim Reapers’ to Haunt Downtown Crete

As the Novel Coronavirus Infects Thousands of Workers Nationwide , PETA Calls for Smithfield , Other Slaughterhouses to Shut Down Crete , Neb .
– Two “ Grim Reapers ” holding scythes with the message “ Slaughterhouses Kill Animals AND Workers ” will lead a protest through the “ dead center ” of downtown Crete to condemn the local Smithfield slaughterhouse , which is showing no mercy for animals or workers by reopening , despite roughly 330 employees and their family members having tested positive for COVID-19 .
Where : The southwest corner of Main Avenue and 13th Street , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and offal-soaked slaughterhouses are breeding grounds for diseases that can jump from animals to humans—and they ’ re the least safe workplaces in the world , ” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk .
“ As COVID-19 spreads like wildfire from worker to worker , PETA is calling for slaughterhouses to shut down and stay closed , for everyone ’ s protection.
” The novel coronavirus originated in a Chinese “ wet market , ” where live and dead animals are sold for human consumption ; swine flu began on a U.S. factory farm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traced to chickens .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that approximately 75 % of recently emerged infectious diseases affecting humans originated in other animals .
Recently , PETA sent a letter offering to help with the cost of retraining its employees to produce exclusively vegan meat—which the company already offers .
PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to eat ” —opposes speciesism , which is a human-supremacist worldview .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .

As the Novel Coronavirus Infects Thousands of Workers Nationwide, PETA Calls for Smithfield, Other Slaughterhouses to Shut Down
For Immediate Release:
May 29, 2020
Contact:
Brooke Rossi 202-483-7382
Crete, Neb. – Two “Grim Reapers” holding scythes with the message “Slaughterhouses Kill Animals AND Workers” will lead a protest through the “dead center” of downtown Crete to condemn the local Smithfield slaughterhouse, which is showing no mercy for animals or workers by reopening, despite roughly 330 employees and their family members having tested positive for COVID-19.
When: Saturday, May 30, 12 noon
Where: The southwest corner of Main Avenue and 13th Street, Crete
“Filthy, wet, blood- and offal-soaked slaughterhouses are breeding grounds for diseases that can jump from animals to humans—and they’re the least safe workplaces in the world,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “As COVID-19 spreads like wildfire from worker to worker, PETA is calling for slaughterhouses to shut down and stay closed, for everyone’s protection.”
The novel coronavirus originated in a Chinese “wet market,” where live and dead animals are sold for human consumption; swine flu began on a U.S. factory farm; and other influenza viruses have been traced to chickens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that approximately 75% of recently emerged infectious diseases affecting humans originated in other animals.
Recently, PETA sent Smithfield a letter offering to help with the cost of retraining its employees to produce exclusively vegan meat—which the company already offers.
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat”—opposes speciesism, which is a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-29--City Urged to Ban Fourth of July Fireworks to Protect Wildlife, Companion Animals, and Veterans With

City Urged to Ban Fourth of July Fireworks to Protect Wildlife, Companion Animals, and Veterans With PTSD

Lakewood , Wash. – PETA points out that people who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder can experience fear and panic at the war-like booms and that after fireworks displays , animal shelters see a spike in the number of lost dogs , who sometimes jump fences and even break through glass doors in order to escape the terrifying noises .
The blasts also cause wildlife to flee onto roads and into buildings or abandon their nests .
“ To the most vulnerable among us , booming fireworks can sound like an all-out war , ” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to protect everyone in Lakewood by banning fireworks every day of the year.
” PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to abuse in any way ” and which opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview—encourages kind people to celebrate with silent fireworks , which are richer in colorful effects and visual choreography than conventional fireworks and provide all the fanfare and celebration without any of the frightening noise .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .
On behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 6.5 million members and supporters worldwide , I ’ m writing with regard to the proposed amendment that would ban the discharge of fireworks on July 3 and 5 .
We strongly and most respectfully urge you to adopt the fireworks limitations contained in the ban proposal and to consider also banning fireworks on July 4 and New Year ’ s Eve in order to protect all of Lakewood ’ s residents .
Traditional fireworks bring with them devastating consequences .
They sound like an all-out war not only to those suffering from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , cats , and wildlife .
Terrified dogs climb or dig their way out of fenced-in yards as they frantically try to escape the explosions , resulting in increased stray-animal intakes at shelters .
Many animals arrive with bloody paws or broken bones , some are never reunited with their families , and others are doomed to a worse fate .
Fireworks produce plumes of smoke laden with particles that are harmful to the respiratory systems of humans and other animals .
Birds caught in or near fireworks displays often choke on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banned the city of Gualala ’ s display when , following a 2006 show , seabirds fled their nests , leaving their chicks vulnerable to predators .
Most birds can not see well in the dark , so this type of disruption can lead to injuries if they inadvertently crash into power lines , cars , buildings , trees , or each other .
In one case , 5,000 birds died on a New Year ’ s Eve in Arkansas after a fireworks display caused them to take flight and crash into objects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tragedies are not limited to animals : Many humans have been injured in fireworks accidents , and the displays can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory problems .
Veterans and others suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder are also sensitive to and can be deeply disturbed by the noise of the explosives and the smell of the gunpowder .
And on average , 180 people go to emergency rooms daily with fireworks-related injuries for an entire month around July 4 .
As the Fourth of July holiday fast approaches , we hope you ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them further by including a ban on igniting fireworks on Independence Day and December 31 .
Thank you for your time and consideration .
We look forward to hearing from you .
Very truly yours ,

Upcoming Hearing on Fireworks Rules Prompts PETA Plea
For Immediate Release:
May 29, 2020
Contact:
Nicole Meyer 202-483-7382
Lakewood, Wash. – PETA points out that people who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder can experience fear and panic at the war-like booms and that after fireworks displays, animal shelters see a spike in the number of lost dogs, who sometimes jump fences and even break through glass doors in order to escape the terrifying noises. The blasts also cause wildlife to flee onto roads and into buildings or abandon their nests.
“To the most vulnerable among us, booming fireworks can sound like an all-out war,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA is asking Mayor Anderson to protect everyone in Lakewood by banning fireworks every day of the year.”
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way” and which opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview—encourages kind people to celebrate with silent fireworks, which are richer in colorful effects and visual choreography than conventional fireworks and provide all the fanfare and celebration without any of the frightening noise.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.
PETA’s letter to Anderson follows.
May 29, 2020
The Honorable Don Anderson
Mayor of Lakewood
Dear Mayor Anderson,
On behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and our more than 6.5 million members and supporters worldwide, I’m writing with regard to the proposed amendment that would ban the discharge of fireworks on July 3 and 5. We strongly and most respectfully urge you to adopt the fireworks limitations contained in the ban proposal and to consider also banning fireworks on July 4 and New Year’s Eve in order to protect all of Lakewood’s residents.
Traditional fireworks bring with them devastating consequences. They sound like an all-out war not only to those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder but also to dogs, cats, and wildlife. Terrified dogs climb or dig their way out of fenced-in yards as they frantically try to escape the explosions, resulting in increased stray-animal intakes at shelters. Many animals arrive with bloody paws or broken bones, some are never reunited with their families, and others are doomed to a worse fate.
Fireworks produce plumes of smoke laden with particles that are harmful to the respiratory systems of humans and other animals. Birds caught in or near fireworks displays often choke on the toxic residue. The California Coastal Commission banned the city of Gualala’s display when, following a 2006 show, seabirds fled their nests, leaving their chicks vulnerable to predators. Most birds cannot see well in the dark, so this type of disruption can lead to injuries if they inadvertently crash into power lines, cars, buildings, trees, or each other. In one case, 5,000 birds died on a New Year’s Eve in Arkansas after a fireworks display caused them to take flight and crash into objects such as houses and cars.
Such tragedies are not limited to animals: Many humans have been injured in fireworks accidents, and the displays can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory problems. Veterans and others suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder are also sensitive to and can be deeply disturbed by the noise of the explosives and the smell of the gunpowder. And on average, 180 people go to emergency rooms daily with fireworks-related injuries for an entire month around July 4.
As the Fourth of July holiday fast approaches, we hope you’ll enact the proposed restrictions and consider extending them further by including a ban on igniting fireworks on Independence Day and December 31. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to hearing from you.
Very truly yours,
Ingrid E. Newkirk
President


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-29--How to Make Vegan Milk at Home

How to Make Vegan Milk at Home

Everyone ’ s latest at-home obsession : making their own dairy-free milk .
If you , too , are interested in showing cows and goats some love , honoring your own body , and saving a few bucks in the process , you ’ ve come to the right place .
Making plant-based milk in the comfort of your kitchen is a simple and rewarding process—peruse our guide to discover how to make vegan milk .
Making your own almond milk is super-easy .
All you ’ ll need are some raw almonds , filtered water , sea salt , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bag ( although a thin dish towel will work in a pinch ) .
To make chocolate almond milk , just add in some cocoa powder .
Check out this recipe and how-to video , courtesy of The Minimalist Baker : Whether your local Kroger is out of Oatly or you just want to control what ingredients go into the milk that you ’ re pouring over your cereal , making your own oat milk is the way to go .
Oat milk is one of the easiest vegan milks to make .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t require a special bag—a strainer will do just fine .
Which type of oats are the best to use for oat milk ?
Opt for old-fashioned rolled oats , as quick oats and steel-cut oats will result in a milk with a watery consistency .
Try this creamy , slightly sweet homemade oat milk recipe from The Green Creator : Why would you drink a pus-filled secretion stolen from a mother cow , when making your own delicious soy milk is as easy as 1 ( soybeans ) , 2 ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Make sure you use yellow soybeans , and vanilla extract or the seeds scraped from a vanilla bean pod work great as a sweetener .
For an easy recipe , follow along with this video from Mary ’ s Test Kitchen : Short of slicing open a mature , brown , fuzzy coconut and spoon eating its flesh , it doesn ’ t get any more refreshing than homemade coconut milk .
You can use fresh coconut meat , unsweetened shredded coconut , or unsweetened coconut flakes .
Coconut milk is great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s also delicious in coffee and tea or as a curry base .
Watch the video below for a super-simple coconut milk recipe that requires only two ingredients : The Harvard Nurses ’ Health Study found that consuming two or more glasses of cow ’ s milk a day put people at a higher risk for broken hips and arms than those who drank one or fewer glasses a day .
If you want to retain the calcium that you consume , try drinking rice milk instead .
With about 283 mg of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a clear winner .
Plus , rice milk is inexpensive to make and a great option for those who are allergic to soy , gluten , or tree nuts .
Try it for yourself : Hemp milk is like a gift from the vegan gods : High in calcium and protein , it contains an ideal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids .
And if you ’ re wondering “ Does hemp milk contain THC ?
” or “ Does hemp milk get you high ?
” don ’ t worry—hemp milk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hemp plant , which won ’ t get you high .
So make some nutritious , nonpsychoactive homemade hemp milk today : Why You Should Drink Only Vegan Milk Cows and goats produce milk for the same reason that human mothers do : to nurse their young .
So to think that imprisoning female animals , exerting reproductive control over them , kidnapping their babies , stealing their milk , and then buying , selling , or consuming it is acceptable is plain ol ’ speciesism ( and sexism and human supremacism ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in peace to do the things that come naturally to them , like shedding tears over lost loved ones ( cows ) and nursing their babies for roughly six months ( goats ) .
No one should be treated like a milk-making machine .
Other animals have one-upped us—besides humans ( and companion animals who are fed by humans ) , no species drinks milk beyond the age of weaning or drinks the milk of another species .
Our bodies fight cow ’ s milk , which has been linked to many human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ovarian cancer , superbugs , weight gain , high cholesterol , and acne .
And dairy “ products ” are no friend to the planet , either : In California , America ’ s top milk-producing state , manure from dairy farms has poisoned hundreds of square miles of groundwater , rivers , and streams .
The dairy industry is also the primary source of smog-forming pollutants in the state—a single cow emits more of these harmful gases than a car does .
The COVID-19 pandemic means that this could be the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on grocery store shelves—hooray !
Get ahead of the game : Make dairy-free milk at home and go vegan today .
You ’ re now a vegan milk-making expert—and we ’ re here to make everything about being vegan as easy as making your own dairy-free milk is .
Click on the link below to order a free vegan starter kit full of recipes , tips on making the compassionate switch , and more .
Feeling mooved ?
Click on the link below to complete multiple PETA action alerts to help cows suffering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Suffering in the Dairy Industry PETA is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program , an affiliate advertising program designed to provide websites with a means to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com .

May 29, 2020 by Katherine Sullivan Last Updated November 30, 2022. Publishedby
Everyone’s latest at-home obsession: making their own dairy-free milk. If you, too, are interested in showing cows and goats some love, honoring your own body, and saving a few bucks in the process, you’ve come to the right place. Making plant-based milk in the comfort of your kitchen is a simple and rewarding process—peruse our guide to discover how to make vegan milk.
How to Make Almond Milk
Making your own almond milk is super-easy. All you’ll need are some raw almonds, filtered water, sea salt, a blender, and a nut milk bag (although a thin dish towel will work in a pinch). To make chocolate almond milk, just add in some cocoa powder. Check out this recipe and how-to video, courtesy of The Minimalist Baker:
How to Make Oat Milk
Whether your local Kroger is out of Oatly or you just want to control what ingredients go into the milk that you’re pouring over your cereal, making your own oat milk is the way to go. Oat milk is one of the easiest vegan milks to make. Unlike most nut milks, it doesn’t require a special bag—a strainer will do just fine. Which type of oats are the best to use for oat milk? Opt for old-fashioned rolled oats, as quick oats and steel-cut oats will result in a milk with a watery consistency. Try this creamy, slightly sweet homemade oat milk recipe from The Green Creator:
Pro Tip #2: Invest in a glass jug or some glass jars. Over time, chemicals from some plastic containers can leach into your food. But glass is nonporous and chemical-free, making it ideal for storing your homemade dairy-free milk. 🥛
How to Make Soy Milk
Why would you drink a pus-filled secretion stolen from a mother cow, when making your own delicious soy milk is as easy as 1 (soybeans), 2 (water), 3 (sweetener)? Make sure you use yellow soybeans, and vanilla extract or the seeds scraped from a vanilla bean pod work great as a sweetener. For an easy recipe, follow along with this video from Mary’s Test Kitchen:
Pro Tip #3: Many vegan milk recipes recommend soaking the main ingredient (almonds, oats, soybeans, etc.) overnight. So if you want to enjoy your dairy-free milk tomorrow, be sure to start soaking your ingredients tonight. 😴
How to Make Coconut Milk
Short of slicing open a mature, brown, fuzzy coconut and spoon eating its flesh, it doesn’t get any more refreshing than homemade coconut milk. You can use fresh coconut meat, unsweetened shredded coconut, or unsweetened coconut flakes. Coconut milk is great on its own, but it’s also delicious in coffee and tea or as a curry base. Watch the video below for a super-simple coconut milk recipe that requires only two ingredients:
Pro Tip #4: Add a sweetener to any of these recipes to suit yourself. Throw in a pitted date or two, add some vanilla extract, or drop in a tablespoonful of maple syrup. To make your own vegan chocolate milk, mix in some cocoa powder. 🍫
How to Make Rice Milk
The Harvard Nurses’ Health Study found that consuming two or more glasses of cow’s milk a day put people at a higher risk for broken hips and arms than those who drank one or fewer glasses a day. If you want to retain the calcium that you consume, try drinking rice milk instead. With about 283 mg of calcium per cup, it’s a clear winner. Plus, rice milk is inexpensive to make and a great option for those who are allergic to soy, gluten, or tree nuts. Try it for yourself:
Pro Tip #5: To make things even easier, consider buying an automated plant-based milk maker like Almond Cow. Although they’re a bit of an investment, they speed up the milk-making process, saving you time and money in the long term. 🐄
How to Make Hemp Milk
Hemp milk is like a gift from the vegan gods: High in calcium and protein, it contains an ideal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. And if you’re wondering “Does hemp milk contain THC?” or “Does hemp milk get you high?” don’t worry—hemp milk is made using the seeds of the hemp plant, which won’t get you high. So make some nutritious, nonpsychoactive homemade hemp milk today:
Pro Tip #6: The main ingredients mentioned above are only a few of the many that can be used to make vegan milk at home. There’s also cashew, pecan, black sesame, and even blueberry-lavender milk—the possibilities are endless! For organized, cost-effective vegan milk making, consider buying bulk quantities of your preferred main ingredient. 🤑
Why You Should Drink Only Vegan Milk
Cows and goats produce milk for the same reason that human mothers do: to nurse their young. So to think that imprisoning female animals, exerting reproductive control over them, kidnapping their babies, stealing their milk, and then buying, selling, or consuming it is acceptable is plain ol’ speciesism (and sexism and human supremacism). Cows and goats should be left in peace to do the things that come naturally to them, like shedding tears over lost loved ones (cows) and nursing their babies for roughly six months (goats). No one should be treated like a milk-making machine.
Other animals have one-upped us—besides humans (and companion animals who are fed by humans), no species drinks milk beyond the age of weaning or drinks the milk of another species. Our bodies fight cow’s milk, which has been linked to many human health concerns, including prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, superbugs, weight gain, high cholesterol, and acne. And dairy “products” are no friend to the planet, either: In California, America’s top milk-producing state, manure from dairy farms has poisoned hundreds of square miles of groundwater, rivers, and streams. The dairy industry is also the primary source of smog-forming pollutants in the state—a single cow emits more of these harmful gases than a car does.
The COVID-19 pandemic means that this could be the last time you see cow’s milk on grocery store shelves—hooray! Get ahead of the game: Make dairy-free milk at home and go vegan today.
*****
You’re now a vegan milk-making expert—and we’re here to make everything about being vegan as easy as making your own dairy-free milk is. Click on the link below to order a free vegan starter kit full of recipes, tips on making the compassionate switch, and more.
Order Your FREE Vegan Starter Kit!
Feeling mooved? Click on the link below to complete multiple PETA action alerts to help cows suffering in the dairy industry.
Help Cows Suffering in the Dairy Industry
PETA is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide websites with a means to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-05-31--You Can’t Unhear These Screams: PETA Is First Ever to Expose the Alpaca Wool Industry

Crying Out and Vomiting in Profound Fear Restraint is highly distressing to alpacas , who are prey animals and fear @ @ @ @ @ be killed .
( That will come later : Once they ’ re no longer @ @ @ @ @ many alpacas are slaughtered for food . )
Terrified of being pinned down and totally @ @ @ @ @ , spit , and vomited in fear as workers grabbed them by the ears .
@ @ @ @ @ Alpacas … have an innate instinct to flee from danger and potential harm .
Restraining @ @ @ @ @ sides would cause fear , panic , and severe psychological distress.
“ Afterward , the @ @ @ @ @ concrete floor and even stood on their necks .
Some alpacas froze for several minutes @ @ @ @ @ ordeal .

Groundbreaking Undercover Investigation: Crying, Vomiting Alpacas Tied Down, Cut Up for Sweaters and Scarves Video Take Action Donate Now You’ve never seen anything like this before. After watching this video you’ll leave that alpaca sweater, scarf, or ball of yarn on the shelf.
A disturbing, first-of-its-kind PETA undercover investigation reveals that workers hit, kicked, tied down, and mutilated pregnant, crying alpacas in Peru, the world’s top alpaca producer.
This groundbreaking footage highlights just some of the abuse documented at Mallkini, the world’s largest privately owned alpaca farm, near Muñani, Peru. Mallkini is owned by the Michell Group, the world’s largest exporter of alpaca tops and yarn and a supplier of major brands, including Anthropologie.
After talks with PETA entities worldwide, ESPRIT, Marks & Spencer, and Smith & Caughey’s will now phase out alpaca. And as a first step, Gap Inc. (which owns Banana Republic, Athleta, and more) and the H&M group (including its eight brands) have cut ties with Michell, which had supplied them with alpaca.
Michell claims that shearing causes alpacas “no harm.” Please, see for yourself, and join us in helping these animals.
Roughly Handled, Tied Down, and Terrified Mallkini workers pulled alpacas up off the floor by the tail and yanked them around. According to one veterinary expert who reviewed the footage, such “excessive force applied to the bones, joints, and soft tissues in the area” would cause dislocations, fractures, and severe permanent nerve damage. They slammed pregnant alpacas onto tables. Workers tied them tightly by the legs into a restraining device reminiscent of a medieval torture rack and pulled hard, nearly wrenching their legs out of their sockets. The alpacas struggled, risking and sometimes no doubt incurring injuries. Shearers worked quickly and carelessly, leaving the animals bleeding from deep, painful wounds. This alpaca bled from the mouth. These alpacas bled from their forelimbs.
Crying Out and Vomiting in Profound Fear Restraint is highly distressing to alpacas, who are prey animals and fear that they are about to be killed. (That will come later: Once they’re no longer wanted for their coats, many alpacas are slaughtered for food.) Terrified of being pinned down and totally defenseless, they cried out, spit, and vomited in fear as workers grabbed them by the ears. One expert wrote, “Alpacas … have an innate instinct to flee from danger and potential harm. Restraining them on their backs and sides would cause fear, panic, and severe psychological distress.“ Afterward, the workers threw them onto the concrete floor and even stood on their necks. Some alpacas froze for several minutes, apparently exhausted after their ordeal. Shorn alpacas bled from the torso and hips.
Severe Suffering and Stress Shearers worked quickly and carelessly, leaving the animals bleeding from deep, painful wounds. One alpaca’s eyelid appeared to have been severed, while another bled from the mouth. This shorn alpaca’s eyelid had apparently been severed, causing her to bleed (center, with green paint on her head). When the workers stitched them up, most were never even given a topical numbing spray, which would have been inadequate anyway for gaping wounds. According to one veterinarian, “The workers are inflicting excruciating pain and torture by sewing up wounds on fully conscious restrained animals without proper pain control” [emphasis added]. Able to hear, smell, and see what was happening, other alpacas huddled together in fear. Alpacas who could see what was happening huddled together in fear.
You Can Help Stop This! The best thing that you can do for alpacas is refuse to buy anything made of their fleece! It’s easy to check the label when you’re shopping. If it includes the word “alpaca,” leave it on the shelf. If you think you have what it takes to carry out undercover investigations like this one, we want to hear from you . Contact PETA to share your gratitude with the investigators who revealed this cruelty. Please also ask Anthropologie to drop alpaca items immediately in favor of animal-friendly materials.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-06-01--PETA Statement: Blue Light Experiments on Mice

Hefei , China – Please see the following statement from PETA neuroscientist Emily Trunnell regarding a paper published today in Nature Neuroscience titled “ A Circadian Rhythm-Gated Subcortical Pathway for Nighttime-Light-Induced Depressive-Like Behaviors in Mice ” : These poorly conceived experiments , in which researchers stuck needles into mice ’ s eyeballs and conducted invasive brain surgeries on them , not only are cruel but also tell us absolutely nothing about the effects of nighttime light on humans .
Some animals were purposely bred to be blind , or their vision was otherwise manipulated .
The animals ’ “ depressive-like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unreliable forced swim test , in which mice are dropped into inescapable tanks of water and made to swim to keep from drowning , and tail suspension tests , in which the animals are taped up by their sensitive tails and left to dangle , struggling to right themselves .
Most puzzling was the experimenters ’ decision to use mice , who are nocturnal animals , and to expose them to “ nighttime light ” during the beginning of their wake cycle .
This is like calling sunshine “ nighttime light ” for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have been both humane and relevant .
Why this experiment received funding and its results were published should be thoroughly investigated .
PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to experiment on ” —opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .

For Immediate Release:
June 1, 2020
Contact:
Tasgola Bruner 202-483-7382
Hefei, China – Please see the following statement from PETA neuroscientist Emily Trunnell regarding a paper published today in Nature Neuroscience titled “A Circadian Rhythm-Gated Subcortical Pathway for Nighttime-Light-Induced Depressive-Like Behaviors in Mice”:
These poorly conceived experiments, in which researchers stuck needles into mice’s eyeballs and conducted invasive brain surgeries on them, not only are cruel but also tell us absolutely nothing about the effects of nighttime light on humans. Some animals were purposely bred to be blind, or their vision was otherwise manipulated. The animals’ “depressive-like behaviour” was assessed using the highly unreliable forced swim test, in which mice are dropped into inescapable tanks of water and made to swim to keep from drowning, and tail suspension tests, in which the animals are taped up by their sensitive tails and left to dangle, struggling to right themselves. Most puzzling was the experimenters’ decision to use mice, who are nocturnal animals, and to expose them to “nighttime light” during the beginning of their wake cycle. This is like calling sunshine “nighttime light” for humans. Non-invasive studies with human volunteers would have been both humane and relevant. Why this experiment received funding and its results were published should be thoroughly investigated.
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to experiment on”—opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-06-01--PETA to Donate 100 Vegan Meals to Local Hospital Workers

Smoked Tofu and Veggie Lunches Will Help Fuel Healthcare Workers ' Fight Against COVID-19 As Billboard Encourages Move Away From Meat New Brunswick , N.J. – To piggyback on its billboard now up on I-95 that proclaims , “ Tofu Never Caused a Pandemic , ” PETA is teaming up with local restaurant Veganized to send 100 delicious , tofu-based lunches to workers at the nearby Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital on Tuesday .
The all-vegan delivery will include the Samurai wrap ( smoked tofu , roasted sweet potato , and veggies with a miso spread ) and The Angelica @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with cashew cheese and lemon pesto ) plus chocolatey brownies made with silken tofu and drizzled with raspberry sauce .
“ Healthcare workers at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital—and around the world—deserve delicious , immune-boosting vegan fare , ” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk .
“ PETA hopes this lunchtime delivery will brighten their day and remind people that tofu , unlike meat from abused animals , never caused a pandemic.
” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that approximately 75 % of recently emerged infectious diseases affecting humans originated in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a “ wet market ” in China where live and dead animals were sold for food .
Influenza viruses have originated in pigs and chickens—but never in versatile vegan foods like tofu .
In addition to helping prevent future pandemics , each person who goes vegan saves the lives of nearly 200 animals every year and significantly reduces their own risk of suffering from health problems , including strokes , obesity , cancer , and heart disease .
PETA ’ s pro-tofu billboard is located on I-95 , 1.8 miles north of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to eat ” — opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .

Smoked Tofu and Veggie Lunches Will Help Fuel Healthcare Workers' Fight Against COVID-19 As Billboard Encourages Move Away From Meat
For Immediate Release:
June 1, 2020
Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382
New Brunswick, N.J. – To piggyback on its billboard now up on I-95 that proclaims, “Tofu Never Caused a Pandemic,” PETA is teaming up with local restaurant Veganized to send 100 delicious, tofu-based lunches to workers at the nearby Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital on Tuesday. The all-vegan delivery will include the Samurai wrap (smoked tofu, roasted sweet potato, and veggies with a miso spread) and The Angelica sandwich (smoked tofu and veggies topped with cashew cheese and lemon pesto) plus chocolatey brownies made with silken tofu and drizzled with raspberry sauce.
“Healthcare workers at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital—and around the world—deserve delicious, immune-boosting vegan fare,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA hopes this lunchtime delivery will brighten their day and remind people that tofu, unlike meat from abused animals, never caused a pandemic.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that approximately 75% of recently emerged infectious diseases affecting humans originated in other animals. The novel coronavirus originated in a “wet market” in China where live and dead animals were sold for food. Influenza viruses have originated in pigs and chickens—but never in versatile vegan foods like tofu.
In addition to helping prevent future pandemics, each person who goes vegan saves the lives of nearly 200 animals every year and significantly reduces their own risk of suffering from health problems, including strokes, obesity, cancer, and heart disease.
PETA’s pro-tofu billboard is located on I-95, 1.8 miles north of Exit 9, facing south.
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat”— opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-06-01--‘Go 100% Vegan’ Message Heads to Smithfield’s Boardroom

New Shareholder PETA U.S. Will Call On Company to Stop Animal Slaughter , Save Workers ' Lives by Producing Exclusively Vegan Products Smithfield , Va. – Smithfield has already diversified into producing Pure Farmland brand vegan sausages , burgers , and meatballs , and now that thousands of its slaughterhouse workers have contracted COVID-19 , a PETA Asia representative will attend the annual meeting of Smithfield ’ s Hong Kong–based parent company , WH Group , in Hong Kong on Tuesday to ask a shareholder question on behalf of PETA U.S .
The organization purchased stock in the company last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ costs of retraining employees to make vegan meats .
The question that will be asked is this : “ When will Smithfield switch to producing exclusively vegan meats ?
” PETA ’ s involvement comes in the wake of more than 20,000 novel coronavirus infections and at least 76 deaths linked to outbreaks in slaughterhouses in the U.S. alone .
The group points out that fast line speeds and close-quartered working conditions—in which workers are exposed to blood , offal , and animal waste—make virus transmission nearly unavoidable .
Factory farms , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , are also breeding grounds for deadly diseases .
Swine flu , for example , originated in factory-farmed pigs and has killed hundreds of thousands of people worldwide .
Meanwhile , the demand for vegan meats is skyrocketing : Sales were up 158 % year-on-year and have gone up 454 % during the current pandemic .
“ Smithfield could respond to consumer demand by recognizing that American tastes are rapidly turning to veggie burgers , vegan sausage , and other plant-based products that don ’ t threaten the health of everyone on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Newkirk .
“ As a shareholder , PETA U.S. is calling on Smithfield to seize tomorrow ’ s market today and convert its slaughterhouses into vegan meat production facilities.
” PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to eat ” and which opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview—has also purchased stock in companies owned in North America including Hormel , Sanderson Farms , Maple Leaf Foods , Kraft Heinz ( parent company of Oscar Mayer ) , and Tyson , in order to push them to produce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , please visit PETA.org .

New Shareholder PETA U.S. Will Call On Company to Stop Animal Slaughter, Save Workers' Lives by Producing Exclusively Vegan Products
For Immediate Release:
June 1, 2020
Contact:
Nicole Meyer 202-483-7382
Smithfield, Va. – Smithfield has already diversified into producing Pure Farmland brand vegan sausages, burgers, and meatballs, and now that thousands of its slaughterhouse workers have contracted COVID-19, a PETA Asia representative will attend the annual meeting of Smithfield’s Hong Kong–based parent company, WH Group, in Hong Kong on Tuesday to ask a shareholder question on behalf of PETA U.S. The organization purchased stock in the company last month and has offered to cover the costs of retraining employees to make vegan meats. The question that will be asked is this: “When will Smithfield switch to producing exclusively vegan meats?”
PETA’s involvement comes in the wake of more than 20,000 novel coronavirus infections and at least 76 deaths linked to outbreaks in slaughterhouses in the U.S. alone. The group points out that fast line speeds and close-quartered working conditions—in which workers are exposed to blood, offal, and animal waste—make virus transmission nearly unavoidable. Factory farms, where animals are raised before entering the slaughterhouse, are also breeding grounds for deadly diseases. Swine flu, for example, originated in factory-farmed pigs and has killed hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. Meanwhile, the demand for vegan meats is skyrocketing: Sales were up 158% year-on-year and have gone up 454% during the current pandemic.
“Smithfield could respond to consumer demand by recognizing that American tastes are rapidly turning to veggie burgers, vegan sausage, and other plant-based products that don’t threaten the health of everyone on the planet,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “As a shareholder, PETA U.S. is calling on Smithfield to seize tomorrow’s market today and convert its slaughterhouses into vegan meat production facilities.”
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat” and which opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview—has also purchased stock in companies owned in North America including Hormel, Sanderson Farms, Maple Leaf Foods, Kraft Heinz (parent company of Oscar Mayer), and Tyson, in order to push them to produce exclusively vegan meats.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-06-01--First-Ever Alpaca Wool ExposĂŠ: Workers Tie Up, Stretch Out, and Cut Animals, Making Them Vomit

PETA Undercover Investigation in Peru Shows Alpacas Bleeding and Crying Out in Pain and Fear New York – A first-of-its-kind PETA undercover investigation of Mallkini—the world ’ s largest privately owned alpaca farm in Peru—reveals that workers held struggling , crying alpacas by the ears as they were roughly shorn with electric clippers , causing some to vomit out of fear .
Workers slammed the alpacas—some of whom were pregnant—onto tables , tied them to a medieval-looking restraining device , and pulled hard , nearly wrenching their legs out of their sockets .
The quick , rough shearing left the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wounds , which were sewn up without adequate pain relief .
In response , Esprit is phasing out alpaca wool and , as a first step , Gap Inc. ( which owns Banana Republic , Athleta , and other brands ) and H & M Group ( which owns eight brands ) have cut ties with Mallkini ’ s parent company , the Michell Group , which is the leading exporter of alpaca fiber .
PETA is asking Peruvian authorities to investigate Mallkini for possible violations of the country ’ s animal protection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulled back the curtain on violent shearing that leaves alpacas bleeding and crying out , ” says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman .
“ We urge all retailers to protect these vulnerable animals by banning alpaca wool and are calling on consumers to leave these cruelly produced items on the rack.
” PETA—whose motto reads , in part , that “ animals are not ours to wear ” —notes that in addition to causing gentle alpacas immense suffering , the production of alpaca wool is also terrible for the planet .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the second most environmentally damaging material after silk , noting that it ’ s six times as harmful as polyester and more than four times as damaging as modal , viscose , rayon , lyocell , acrylic , and other vegan materials .
Photos are available here , and broadcast-quality footage is available here .
PETA opposes speciesism , a human-supremacist worldview .
For more information , please visit PETA.org .

PETA Undercover Investigation in Peru Shows Alpacas Bleeding and Crying Out in Pain and Fear
For Immediate Release:
June 1, 2020
Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382
New York – A first-of-its-kind PETA undercover investigation of Mallkini—the world’s largest privately owned alpaca farm in Peru—reveals that workers held struggling, crying alpacas by the ears as they were roughly shorn with electric clippers, causing some to vomit out of fear. Workers slammed the alpacas—some of whom were pregnant—onto tables, tied them to a medieval-looking restraining device, and pulled hard, nearly wrenching their legs out of their sockets. The quick, rough shearing left the animals cut up and bleeding from deep wounds, which were sewn up without adequate pain relief.
In response, Esprit is phasing out alpaca wool and, as a first step, Gap Inc. (which owns Banana Republic, Athleta, and other brands) and H&M Group (which owns eight brands) have cut ties with Mallkini’s parent company, the Michell Group, which is the leading exporter of alpaca fiber. PETA is asking Peruvian authorities to investigate Mallkini for possible violations of the country’s animal protection laws.
“PETA’s investigation pulled back the curtain on violent shearing that leaves alpacas bleeding and crying out,” says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. “We urge all retailers to protect these vulnerable animals by banning alpaca wool and are calling on consumers to leave these cruelly produced items on the rack.”
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to wear”—notes that in addition to causing gentle alpacas immense suffering, the production of alpaca wool is also terrible for the planet. The Higg Materials Sustainability Index ranked alpaca wool as the second most environmentally damaging material after silk, noting that it’s six times as harmful as polyester and more than four times as damaging as modal, viscose, rayon, lyocell, acrylic, and other vegan materials.
Photos are available here, and broadcast-quality footage is available here. PETA opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org.


petapeoplefortheethicaltreatmentofanimals--2020-06-01--Reptiles Aren’t ‘Pets’: PETA Explains Why

Would you still want a snake , lizard , or turtle if you knew how likely they ’ d be to die within a year ?
It ’ s estimated that up to 75 % of “ pet ” reptiles die within the first year in a person ’ s home .
Reptiles are sensitive animals who require specialized care , yet they ’ re sold like inanimate merchandise to people who often buy them on impulse , with little to no knowledge of their proper care and special needs for space , heat , humidity , lighting , live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show that , like all other animals , reptiles can experience anxiety , stress , distress , excitement , fear , frustration , pain , and suffering .
Snakes are loving and protective mothers who don ’ t let their young out of their sight for three weeks after they ’ re born .
Lizards have individual personalities , just like cats and dogs : Some are shy , while others are bold .
In their natural habitat , many reptiles enjoy swimming , climbing , jumping , burrowing , and exploring their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ square mile to hundreds of square miles in size .
Reptiles kept as “ pets ” for human amusement are denied these essential pleasures , relegated to lives devoid of joy or meaning .
These animals ’ suffering begins long before they end up on pet store shelves .
PETA undercover investigations have revealed rampant abuse and neglect in the businesses that transport and sell “ pet ” reptiles .
At U.S .
Global Exotics—one of the nation ’ s largest sellers of exotic animals to distributors who in turn supply pet stores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigator found animals confined to barren cages and bins for months at a time , denied basic necessities like food , water , adequate air and space , suitable habitat , temperature and humidity control , and veterinary treatment .
Some animals had died from illness , malnutrition , and lack of care .
Sick ones were tossed into chest freezers to endure a slow , horrifying death .
Lizards , turtles , and other animals were shipped from all over the world to Reptiles by Mack , another PetSmart supplier , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and wooden crates .
Tens of thousands of animals at this facility were kept in crowded plastic bins , without heat or UV lamps , fresh food , or water .
Buying any animal from a pet store supports these cruel suppliers and ensures that they will keep exploiting animals .
Is It Cruel to Keep Snakes as ‘ Pets ’ ?
In their natural habitat , snakes warm themselves in the sun , cool off by burrowing underground , climb trees , and swim gracefully .
They ’ re sensitive animals who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live in a cramped glass tank .
They need to be able to stretch out to their full length .
They also need exercise and room to move : One python who had been fitted with a tracking device traveled 22 miles in 75 days .
Companies like Zoo Med , Zilla , and Exo Terra sell snake enclosures and kits at Petco , PetSmart , and Walmart , which they advertise as “ appropriate ” or “ ideal ” but which are not .
For instance , some habitats—which are no more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snakes can ’ t stretch out fully , even though reptile experts emphasize that being able to straighten out completely is essential to their health and well-being and that those who are unable to do so are susceptible to stress , injury , and disease .
Some companies , such as Zoo Med , even negligently recommend habitats that are only “ half the length of the snake.
” Many people purchase snakes only to realize that they can ’ t meet these animals ’ extensive and expensive needs .
As a result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or escape as a result of improper care .
Others are abused and killed : In Florida , a 6-foot boa constrictor died after being found in a garbage bin with a crushed skull .
Florida authorities also organize annual python-killing competitions and invite inexperienced hunters to kill the snakes using bolt guns , firearms , or decapitation , which can cause a prolonged , agonizing death .
Lizards have complex personalities and specific physical and social needs .
Without proper care , many suffer from serious and painful health problems , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mouth rot , respiratory disease , abscesses , and ulcers .
These sensitive animals often show their distress and longing to be free by rubbing their noses against the glass windows of enclosures .
People often purchase iguanas when they ’ re small , without realizing that they can grow to be 6 feet long and live for 20 years and that caring for them can cost hundreds of dollars a year .
As with pythons , many people abandon these animals when their novelty wears off and the reality of caring for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South Florida have surged since the 1960s , when they were introduced as exotic pets .
Authorities have responded by trying to kill them off : The city of Miami Beach , for example , hired a hunting service to kill iguanas who were just trying to survive after being cruelly discarded by their owners .
In the U.S. , most native species of turtles sold in pet stores have been snatched from their homes and families in nature .
When turtles grow larger than expected , they ’ re often illegally dumped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ native species and introduce disease .
Red-eared sliders are the turtle species most commonly victimized by the “ pet ” industry .
In their natural habitat , these turtles can wander up to 5.5 miles from water to find suitable habitat , search for a mate , or lay their eggs—but kept as pets , they ’ re often relegated to cramped , barren bowls or tanks that are wholly inadequate for their needs .
They ’ re unable to enjoy any natural pleasures or follow their instincts , and they usually die @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , as opposed to living up to 70 years in their natural habitat .
Are ‘ Pet ’ Alligators Legal ?
Here ’ s Why They Shouldn ’ t Be Crocodiles and alligators are complex , sensitive animals who should never be kept as “ pets.
” In their natural homes , mother alligators protect their eggs from predators by staying near them until they hatch .
If some eggs are taking too long to hatch , she gently rolls them around in her mouth to help them open .
She carries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mouth and teaches them to swim .
Captivity simply can ’ t meet these animals ’ needs , and anyone who buys a baby alligator or crocodile is sure to be quickly overwhelmed by the massive size they attain .
And although they may have a “ tough ” appearance , these animals are highly susceptible to stress and can develop painful abnormalities and deformities from living in small enclosures where they ’ re unable to walk or swim at will .
Common Reptile Diseases Can Be Deadly to Humans The Centers for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Food and Drug Administration warn against keeping “ pet ” reptiles , because of the high risk of contracting potentially deadly salmonella .
Turtles , lizards , and amphibians can carry salmonella bacteria on their skin and shells , and they can be found in the animals ’ enclosures .
The bacteria can be transmitted just from holding them , cleaning their enclosures in a sink , allowing them to walk around on floors or surfaces , or allowing children to touch them and then later touch their own mouths .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , more than 200 people were infected with salmonella and 41 % of them were younger than 5 years old .
Salmonella infection leads to diarrhea , fever , stomach pain , nausea , vomiting , and headache and can be deadly to children , the elderly , and people with medical conditions .
PETA ’ s investigations into alligator- and crocodile-breeding facilities have shown that these animals are kept in stressful and unhygienic conditions , and the coronavirus pandemic has taught us that stressed animals kept in captivity are more likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bred as pets , for their flesh , or for their skin , it ’ s clear that the filthy , crowded conditions in which they ’ re confined are breeding grounds for disease .
Planning to Buy a ‘ Pet ’ Reptile ?
Don ’ t Do It Bringing a reptile into your family is a huge commitment of time , space , and resources .
These animals have extremely complex needs that can only be met by letting them stay in their natural habitat .
Please , never purchase reptiles from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are rife with cruelty , where sentient beings are snatched from their unique ecosystems or bred in miserable warehouses and treated as disposable products .
Instead of relegating one of these sensitive animals to a life of deprivation and suffering , consider adopting another kind of animal—such as a dog , cat , or rabbit—who can thrive when properly cared for in a human home environment .
You Can Do More for Reptiles Help “ pet ” reptiles victimized by the exotic-animal trade : Urge PetSmart to Stop Selling Reptiles and Other Live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ misled into purchasing a reptile habitat that doesn ’ t support the animal ’ s most basic needs , like stretching out , climbing , and burrowing , please let us know : Contact PETA about your experience buying a reptile habitat .

Would you still want a snake, lizard, or turtle if you knew how likely they’d be to die within a year? It’s estimated that up to 75% of “pet” reptiles die within the first year in a person’s home. Reptiles are sensitive animals who require specialized care, yet they’re sold like inanimate merchandise to people who often buy them on impulse, with little to no knowledge of their proper care and special needs for space, heat, humidity, lighting, live prey, and more.
Numerous studies show that, like all other animals, reptiles can experience anxiety, stress, distress, excitement, fear, frustration, pain, and suffering. Snakes are loving and protective mothers who don’t let their young out of their sight for three weeks after they’re born. Lizards have individual personalities, just like cats and dogs: Some are shy, while others are bold. In their natural habitat, many reptiles enjoy swimming, climbing, jumping, burrowing, and exploring their territories, which range from about a square mile to hundreds of square miles in size. Reptiles kept as “pets” for human amusement are denied these essential pleasures, relegated to lives devoid of joy or meaning.
Exotic Animals for Sale: The Deadly Truth
These animals’ suffering begins long before they end up on pet store shelves. PETA undercover investigations have revealed rampant abuse and neglect in the businesses that transport and sell “pet” reptiles. At U.S. Global Exotics—one of the nation’s largest sellers of exotic animals to distributors who in turn supply pet stores, including Petco and PetSmart—PETA’s investigator found animals confined to barren cages and bins for months at a time, denied basic necessities like food, water, adequate air and space, suitable habitat, temperature and humidity control, and veterinary treatment. Some animals had died from illness, malnutrition, and lack of care. Sick ones were tossed into chest freezers to endure a slow, horrifying death.
Lizards, turtles, and other animals were shipped from all over the world to Reptiles by Mack, another PetSmart supplier, in plastic soda bottles, milk jugs, and wooden crates. Tens of thousands of animals at this facility were kept in crowded plastic bins, without heat or UV lamps, fresh food, or water. Buying any animal from a pet store supports these cruel suppliers and ensures that they will keep exploiting animals.
Is It Cruel to Keep Snakes as ‘Pets’?
In their natural habitat, snakes warm themselves in the sun, cool off by burrowing underground, climb trees, and swim gracefully. They’re sensitive animals who experience anguish and trauma when forced to live in a cramped glass tank. They need to be able to stretch out to their full length. They also need exercise and room to move: One python who had been fitted with a tracking device traveled 22 miles in 75 days.
© iStock.com/Natt Boonyatecha
Companies like Zoo Med, Zilla, and Exo Terra sell snake enclosures and kits at Petco, PetSmart, and Walmart, which they advertise as “appropriate” or “ideal” but which are not. For instance, some habitats—which are no more than glorified fish tanks—are so small that snakes can’t stretch out fully, even though reptile experts emphasize that being able to straighten out completely is essential to their health and well-being and that those who are unable to do so are susceptible to stress, injury, and disease.
Many people purchase snakes only to realize that they can’t meet these animals’ extensive and expensive needs. As a result, many snakes are dumped each year or escape as a result of improper care. Others are abused and killed: In Florida, a 6-foot boa constrictor died after being found in a garbage bin with a crushed skull. Florida authorities also organize annual python-killing competitions and invite inexperienced hunters to kill the snakes using bolt guns, firearms, or decapitation, which can cause a prolonged, agonizing death.
Bigotry begins when categories such as race, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or species are used to justify discrimination. Join the Movement
What’s Wrong With Keeping a ‘Pet’ Lizard?
Lizards have complex personalities and specific physical and social needs. Without proper care, many suffer from serious and painful health problems, including metabolic bone disease from calcium deficiency, mouth rot, respiratory disease, abscesses, and ulcers. These sensitive animals often show their distress and longing to be free by rubbing their noses against the glass windows of enclosures.
People often purchase iguanas when they’re small, without realizing that they can grow to be 6 feet long and live for 20 years and that caring for them can cost hundreds of dollars a year. As with pythons, many people abandon these animals when their novelty wears off and the reality of caring for them sets in. Iguana populations in South Florida have surged since the 1960s, when they were introduced as exotic pets. Authorities have responded by trying to kill them off: The city of Miami Beach, for example, hired a hunting service to kill iguanas who were just trying to survive.
It’s Shell on Earth for ‘Pet’ Turtles
In the U.S., most native species of turtles sold in pet stores have been snatched from their homes and families in nature. When turtles grow larger than expected, they’re often illegally dumped outdoors in areas where they crowd out native species and introduce disease. Red-eared sliders are the turtle species most commonly victimized by the “pet” industry. In their natural habitat, these turtles can wander up to 5.5 miles from water to find suitable habitat, search for a mate, or lay their eggs—but kept as pets, they’re often relegated to cramped, barren bowls or tanks that are wholly inadequate for their needs.
They’re unable to enjoy any natural pleasures or follow their instincts, and they usually die young in captivity—often after only about a year, as opposed to living up to 70 years in their natural habitat.
Are ‘Pet’ Alligators Legal? Here’s Why They Shouldn’t Be
Crocodiles and alligators are complex, sensitive animals who should never be kept as “pets.” In their natural homes, mother alligators protect their eggs from predators by staying near them until they hatch. If some eggs are taking too long to hatch, she gently rolls them around in her mouth to help them open. She carries her newly hatched babies around in her mouth and teaches them to swim.
Captivity simply can’t meet these animals’ needs, and anyone who buys a baby alligator or crocodile is sure to be quickly overwhelmed by the massive size they attain. And although they may have a “tough” appearance, these animals are highly susceptible to stress and can develop painful abnormalities and deformities from living in small enclosures where they’re unable to walk or swim at will.
Common Reptile Diseases Can Be Deadly to Humans
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration warn against keeping “pet” reptiles, because of the high risk of contracting potentially deadly salmonella. Turtles, lizards, and amphibians can carry salmonella bacteria on their skin and shells, and they can be found in the animals’ enclosures. The bacteria can be transmitted just from holding them, cleaning their enclosures in a sink, allowing them to walk around on floors or surfaces, or allowing children to touch them and then later touch their own mouths.
CDC figures indicate that in just one year, more than 200 people were infected with salmonella and 41% of them were younger than 5 years old. Salmonella infection leads to diarrhea, fever, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and headache and can be deadly to children, the elderly, and people with medical conditions.
PETA’s investigations into alligator- and crocodile-breeding facilities have shown that these animals are kept in stressful and unhygienic conditions, and the coronavirus pandemic has taught us that stressed animals kept in captivity are more likely to carry diseases.
Whether reptiles are bred as pets, for their flesh, or for their skin, it’s clear that the filthy, crowded conditions in which they’re confined are breeding grounds for disease.
Planning to Buy a ‘Pet’ Reptile? Don’t Do It
Bringing a reptile into your family is a huge commitment of time, space, and resources. These animals have extremely complex needs that can only be met by letting them stay in their natural habitat. Please, never purchase reptiles from breeders. Doing so supports industries that are rife with cruelty, where sentient beings are snatched from their unique ecosystems or bred in miserable warehouses and treated as disposable products. Instead of relegating one of these sensitive animals to a life of deprivation and suffering, consider adopting another kind of animal—such as a dog, cat, or rabbit—who can thrive when properly cared for in a human home environment.
You Can Do More for Reptiles
Help “pet” reptiles victimized by the exotic-animal trade:
Urge PetSmart to Stop Selling Reptiles and Other Live Animals
If you feel that you were misled into purchasing a reptile habitat that doesn’t support the animal’s most basic needs, like stretching out, climbing, and burrowing, please let us know: Contact PETA about your experience buying a reptile habitat.