Opposition to Farm Animal Confinement Shown

by Amanda Katz

A poll recently conducted by Zogby International has revealed that seven of every 10 California residents who have registered to vote favor enactment of legislation banning the use of veal and gestation crates to prevent calves and pregnant pigs from turning around and/or lying down comfortably.

"Voters are unambivalent in their support for a law regulating the humane treatment of calves and pigs," said a Zogby International spokesperson. "By more than three to one, California voters agree that there should be legislation requiring farmers to allow enough room for calves raised for veal and pregnant pigs to move and turn around."

According to California Assemblymember Loni Hancock (D-Berkeley), who has proposed such legislation, animals confined in veal or gestation crates experience "extreme physical and mental distress."

"It is not only cruel, but unnecessary," Hancock stated.

Use of the crates, which some farmers claim is necessary in order to maximize efficiency, has been banned by the government of the European Union.

Use of gestation crates has been made illegal in Florida.

"(The proposed legislation) prevents the most egregious cruelties endured by veal calves and breeding pigs," said Hancock. "The bill prohibits cruelty without proscribing how the animals must be raised, and is supported by humane organizations, businesses, veterinarians and animal health experts."

© 2003 Animal News Center, Inc.