Survey Says: Americans Care About Farm Animals |
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October 19, 2007
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©Farm Sanctuary |
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Surveys show that most Americans oppose cruel treatment of farm animals, like confining pigs in gestation crates. |
A recent American Farm Bureau Federation announcement only confirms what many of us already know.
Its survey of 1,000 consumers' attitudes toward farm animal welfare shows that Americans are paying attention to the treatment of farm animals—both at the grocery store and at the ballot box.
Some highlights:
- 95 percent of respondents agreed with the statement, "It is important to me that animals on farms are well cared for."
- 68 percent think the government should take an active role in promoting the welfare of farm animals.
- 75 percent would vote for a state law requiring producers to treat farm animals better.
- 81 percent agreed with the statement, "Farm animals have roughly the same ability to feel pain and discomfort as humans."
- 76 percent disagreed with the statement, "Low meat prices are more important than the well-being of farm animals."
Raising the Bar for Farm Animals
As an industry article on the survey notes, advancements for farm animals are happening quickly.
In 2002, Floridians voted to prohibit gestation crates, and in 2006, Arizonans voted to ban gestation crates and veal crates. In 2007, the Oregon legislature passed a bill prohibiting gestation crates.
Companies from Burger King to Wolfgang Puck are listening to their customers and improving farm animal standards in their supply chain. Even pig and veal producers are starting to phase out the most inhumane confinement systems.
Putting Numbers to Action
The Farm Bureau's statistics reflect the building pro-farm animal sentiment which is fueling action throughout the country.
In California, volunteers are collecting signatures for the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, a measure that would prohibit gestation crates, veal crates and battery cages in the state—helping prevent cruelty to nearly 20 million animals confined on California factory farms, as well as protecting the environment and the state's family farmers.
What You Can Do
Follow the Three Rs:
- Reduce the amount of animal products you consume.
- Refine your diets by avoiding conventional factory-farm products.
- Replace animal products with vegetarian options.
Learn more about the Californians for Humane Farms initiative. If you live in the state, get involved!
Related Links
'No Battery Eggs' Campaign Exposes the Hard-Boiled Truth about Laying Hens
Think Outside the Crate Campaign
Help Secure Basic Protection for Billions of Birds: Sign the Petition for Poultry
Turning the Tide for Farm Animals
