———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] apiforanimals.org
Date: Mar 15, 2007 4:55 PM
Subject: Protect Polar Bears from Extinction – and more!

Protect Polar Bears from Extinction

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed to list the polar bear as “threatened” with extinction under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

This threat comes as a result of the rapid disappearance of the polar bear’s Arctic sea ice habitat due to the effects of global warming. As the sea-ice melts, bears are drowning and starving, fewer cubs survive and polar bear populations continue to decline.

Help protect the polar bear by asking the Fish and Wildlife Service to finalize the ESA listing. Written comments are due by April 9, 2007, so please take action today.

For more information and to help with this alert, click here.

(This alert is forwarded by API on behalf of the Endangered Species Coalition, of which API is a member.)

Connecticut Residents: There’s Still Time to Take Action to Protect Elephants

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———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] apiforanimals.org
Date: Mar 8, 2007 4:10 PM
Subject: Help End Animal Fighting for Sport and Protect Wildlife in KY and IL

National

Help End Animal Fighting for Sport

Your help is needed to pass H.R. 137, which has just received approval from the Judiciary Committee. If passed this federal legislation would modify the Animal Welfare Act to increase the imprisonment penalty for animal fighting violations from one year to three years. The bill also prohibits the sale, purchase, transportation, or delivery in interstate or foreign commerce of any knife, gaff, or other sharp instrument used in a bird-fighting venture. In addition, this bill revises enforcement
provisions.

Animal fighting poses a danger to the animals and the people of a community.

Please call and email your Representative today in support of H.R. 137.

For further information and to take immediate action on this alert, click here.

(More below the fold…)

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] apiforanimals.org
Date: Feb 22, 2007 5:51 PM
Subject: Oppose Cloning Animals for Food

Voice Your Opposition to Cloning Animals for Food!

This alert is forwarded by API on behalf of the American Anti-Vivisection Society (AAVS).

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has completed its review and is moving towards allowing milk and meat from animal clones and their offspring into the food supply. Ignoring the scientific evidence that cloning poses serious risks to animal welfare, the FDA is close to permitting cloned foods onto our grocery store shelves without labels.

The FDA needs to hear that you oppose cloning animals for food. Send your letter now — the comment period closes April 2!

Go to www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=1082&more=1 for more information and to take action on this alert.

Washington State Residents: Help Needed as Exotic “Pet” Ban Heads to Senate Floor

Good news! S.B. 5379, a bill to prohibit the future ownership of certain wild animals as pets, has passed out of the Senate Consumer Protection Committee. Your help is now needed to contact your state Senator and ask for his or her support on this crucial piece of legislation when it goes to the Senate floor for a vote.

Please call your Senator today and ask that he or she vote yes on S.B. 5379.

Go to www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=1081&more=1 for more information and to take action on this alert.

Other Ways to Help

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———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] apiforanimals.org
Date: Feb 14, 2007 6:56 PM
Subject: Help Build Animal Caucus in House of Representatives & more

Ask Your U.S. Representative to Join the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus

Your help is needed to increase membership in the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus. The caucus, a bipartisan coalition of U.S. House of Representatives, is reconvening during this session of Congress and is seeking new members to better address animal issues.

This caucus is meant to serve as a platform and forum to aid in getting much-needed animal protection legislation enacted. The more members the caucus has, the more effective it can be in achieving its aim.

Please contact your U.S. Representative today to ask him or her to join the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus.

For more information and to take action on this alert click here.

Tides of Change: Live Fish Sales on the way out at Wal-Mart

Wal-Mart recently said it would stop selling live “pet” fish at some U.S. stores in response to consumer demand. API applauds this decision and hopes that Wal-Mart will discontinue live fish sales in all its stores.

Beginning in 2001, API and our members raised concerns to Wal-Mart about the sale of live fish. We encouraged our members to take action by urging Wal-Mart to discontinue live fish sales. This year those efforts are finally paying off. Thanks to all who took action!

We would now ask you to thank Wal-Mart for making this responsible decision, and urge them to make this change in all Wal-Mart stores.

For more information and to take action on this alert click here.

New Hampshire Residents: Help Ban the Use of Cruel Traps

A few moments of your time is needed to help build momentum and generate support for New Hampshire House Bill 565. This important bill, if passed, would prohibit the use of inhumane Conibear traps and steel-jawed leghold traps for commercial and recreational purposes. Exceptions would still be made, by permit, if public health and safety were jeopardized, or in situations where an animal problem could not be abated using other traps.

HB 565 has been referred to the House Executive Departments and Administration Committee for consideration, and a hearing will be held on Thursday, February 22.

Please take a few moments to help ensure the passage of this bill.

For more information and to take action on this alert click here.

Other Ways to Support API

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———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters
Date: Feb 8, 2007 5:37 PM
Subject: Help Ensure Passage of Horse Slaughter Ban

Help Ensure Passage of Horse Slaughter Ban

The American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act (H.R. 503/S. 311) was recently reintroduced to both chambers of Congress. There is strong support for this bill, which came very close to success last year thanks to your efforts. Please act now to help renew the momentum for this legislation and ensure that it is enacted in 2007.

Your calls and letters are currently needed to your U.S. Representative and your two U.S. Senators to ensure that this important bill achieves victory, and America’s horses are finally afforded the protection they deserve.

Please contact your U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators today! We are closer than ever to ending this abuse of our nation’s horses. Your actions will help make history and save their lives.

To learn more and take action on this alert, go to www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=1064&more=1.

Urgent: Protect Animals from Cruel Traps in Hawai’i

Hawaii residents your help is needed today to build momentum and generate support for House Bill 278. This important bill, if passed, would modify existing animal cruelty laws to prohibit the use of cruel snares and traps to capture or kill animals, except if public health and safety were jeopardized. HB 278 has been referred to the House Committee on Water, Land, Ocean Resources & Hawaiian Affairs for consideration and a hearing will be held on Monday, February 12. Please take a few moments to contact your state lawmaker to ensure the passage of this bill.

To learn more and take action on this alert, go to www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=1065&more=1.

Urgent: Kansas Residents — Speak Up for Prairie Dogs

This alert is sent by API on behalf of Audubon of Kansas

Your action is needed today in support of SB 257. SB 257 is designed to revise the century old “eradication” statutes that allow counties to force landowners to poison off all of their prairie dog colonies. Such archaic statues are currently being used in Logan County, Kansas to force five “wildlife-friendly” landowners to spread toxic poisons over their land to kill prairie dogs.

Senate Bill No, 257 was introduced on Friday (Groundhog Day) by the Kansas Senate Natural Resources Committee. It was anticipated that a hearing might be held on this bill the morning of February, 15 or February 16. However it is still uncertain if a hearing will in fact be scheduled before the bill deadline of February 21. Please take action today to help ensure that a hearing is held and the bill is passed!

To learn more and take action on this alert, go to www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=1066&more=1.

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Via the Animal Protection Institute:

Take Action for Circus Animals in 2007

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus has just launched its 137th edition and API is calling on concerned animal advocates across the country to continue to work together this year to bring an end to the cruelties that circus animals are forced to endure. Examples abound, including prolonged chaining and the use of bullhooks on elephants. Also, the 137th edition features 12 rare Royal Bengal and white tigers, who will spend most of the year inside small travel cages.

Efforts you make to educate people that using animals in circuses is an unnecessary and inhumane practice, harmful to both the animals and the public, make an important difference!

Please check out the list below for ways in which you can take action, and plan to put some or all of them into practice in 2007!

Find out more here.

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Tagged: animals animal+rights action+alerts api animal+protection+institute circus tigers bengal+tigers white+tigers Ringling+Bros Barnum+and+Bailey

UPDATE, 1/17/07:

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters
Date: Jan 17, 2007 4:04 PM
Subject: European Union Permanently Bans Imports of Wild Birds for the Pet Trade

European Union Permanently Bans Imports of Wild Birds for the Pet Trade

Thanks to all of you who took action to help birds stay wild!

Good News! On January 11, 2007, European Union (EU) officials announced new trade regulation governing the import of live birds that which will effectively ban the importation of wild-caught birds for the pet trade.

A temporary wild ban was placed on the importation of wild bird to the EU in October 2005 after birds that died in British quarantine were found to have bird flu. The ban was extended until the end of December 2006 when the EU’s chief veterinary officers were charged with deciding whether it should continue.

In mid-December 2006, Prime Minister Tony Blair announced that the United Kingdom was in support of a permanent ban on the importation of wild-caught birds to the EU, citing concerns for the welfare of imported birds.

The EU new restrictions actually exceed the protections set forth by the United States’ Wild Bird Conservation Act of 1992. For example, the EU restrictions will cover all exotic birds, unlike the Wild Bird Conservation Act which exempts certain “approved” species from import restrictions.

The EU was the largest importer of wild caught birds in the world, responsible for over 90 percent of imports of threatened and endangered species. Prior to the current ban the EU imported approximately 1.76 million birds for the pet trade each year. With this ban in place, the biggest importer of wild birds is now Japan.

For several years API and many other advocacy organization and individual activists have urged the European Union to stop the trade in wild-caught birds.

Thanks to all of you who took action through letters and petitions to help the European Union realize that birds are more beautiful wild!

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———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] apiforanimals.org
Date: Dec 12, 2006 4:09 PM
Subject: Lucky Brand Jeans Update / Take Action in One-Day Online Poll

UPDATE: Lucky Brand Jeans

Lucky Brand Jeans discontinued selling the Ringling Bros. T-shirts when company officials learned of the animal abuse associated with the circus.

Thank you for your concern and action on behalf of the animals.

URGENT: Your Vote Needed in Maine Online Trapping Poll

Whether or not you live in the state, your action is urgently needed in a one-day public opinion poll on whether to ban trapping in Maine in areas where protected and endangered species may be found.

In October, API brought you news that we had filed a lawsuit against the wildlife regulating agency in Maine, in an effort to stop continued violations of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by this agency. The agency violated the ESA by allowing trappers to use snares and traps that injure and sometimes even kill threatened and endangered species listed under the Act.

Adding further proof that these animals are inadvertently, and often tragically, caught in these traps, on Monday officials with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife confirmed that two bald eagles and four Canada lynx have been caught in traps in recent months. One of these eagles had to be euthanized as a result of its injuries.

Speaking out against trapping will help let public officials in Maine know that its residents will not stand for cruel practices that violate the ESA, and will help ensure that a much needed ban is put in place to help protect Maine’s precious wildlife.

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UPDATE, 12/12/06:

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters
Date: Dec 12, 2006 4:09 PM
Subject: Lucky Brand Jeans Update

UPDATE: Lucky Brand Jeans

Lucky Brand Jeans discontinued selling the Ringling Bros. T-shirts when company officials learned of the animal abuse associated with the circus.

Thank you for your concern and action on behalf of the animals.

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] apiforanimals.org
Date: Dec 11, 2006 12:43 PM
Subject: The Cruelest Partnership on Earth?

Ringling Bros. and Lucky Brand Jeans — The Cruelest Partnership on Earth?

Just this week Lucky Brand Jeans and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus announced their new partnership plans, which include limited edition T-shirts showcasing Ringling’s logo, now available in retail locations and Internet store.

Your action is needed to let Lucky Brand Jeans know that you will not support a company that partners with an organization that uses cruel and abusive training techniques on its animals.

Background Information

Lucky Brand Jeans designs and produces denim, sportswear, knits, wovens, outerwear, T-shirts and active wear. Additional Lucky Brand–licensed products include swimwear and accessories for men and women. The Lucky Brand collections are carried at better department and specialty stores and at Lucky Brand Jeans stores nationwide and internationally, as well as via the Internet.

Lucky Brand Jeans is generally known for its forward-thinking, “rock and roll” approach to fashion.

How You Can Help

Please send a letter today to Lucky Brand Jeans to voice your opposition to this partnership and misguided marketing effort.

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———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] api4animals.org
Date: Nov 29, 2006 12:16 PM
Subject: Ask Your City Mayor to Officially Recognize National Bird Day

Ask Your City Mayor to Officially Recognize National Bird Day

With National Bird Day just around the corner, the Animal Protection Institute (API), in coordination with the Avian Welfare Coalition (AWC), is calling on activists around the U.S. to take action on behalf of captive birds, by drawing attention to the exploitation of birds by the U.S. pet industry.

A few of the facts:

*Nearly 12% of the world’s 9,800 bird species may face extinction within the next century, including nearly one-third of the world’s 330 parrot species.

*Many of the world’s parrots and songbirds are threatened with extinction due to pressures from the pet trade and habitat loss.

*Millions of birds are captured from the wild or produced in captivity only to lead miserable lives languishing in conditions that fail to meet their instinctive behavioral and physical needs

Help us spread the important message about the plight of captive birds by asking your city mayor to proclaim January 5, 2007 “National Bird Day.”

(More below the fold…)

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] api4animals.org
Date: Nov 14, 2006 3:18 PM
Subject: UPDATE — Congress Passes HR 4239, the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act

UPDATE — Congress Passes HR 4239, the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act

As anticipated, H.R. 4239, the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (AETA), was brought to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in a fast-track maneuver late yesterday, on the Representatives’ first day back after the month-long break.

The House passed AETA by a voice vote under suspension of the rules, a procedure usually reserved for non-controversial legislation. When the bill came up for consideration, only a handful of House members were even back in town, and very few were on the floor of the House when the brief discussion ensued. This bill was rushed through without a serious look at its flaws, by Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI).

Next Steps

Because the language of AETA passed by the House varies from the language approved by the Senate in the companion bill, S. 3880, a conference committee will reconcile the differences between the bills. Once the differences are resolved and a conference report is generated, both the House and Senate will need to approve the legislation again.

To keep updated on AETA and for more detailed information, visit www.stopaeta.org and www.noaeta.org.

Background

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Via the Animal Protection Institute:

Victories for the Animals at the Ballot Box

Yesterday marked another day at the polls for people across the country. The result is that the dedication, hard work, and persistence of individuals who worked on the ballot measures we brought to your attention a few weeks ago have paid significant dividends for the animals! There were two resounding victories for the animals — in Arizona and Michigan. Congratulations to the thousands of individuals who worked to ensure the success of these ballot initiatives!

Unfortunately, the news is not all we had hoped for in other states, as voting-related measures in Colorado and Florida did not fare so well. However, these amendments do not directly affect animal protection, so we can remain hopeful that when key animal issues are raised in these states in the future they will remain unaffected by the results of these legislative measures.

The unofficial results of these four ballot measures are reported at www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=989&more=1.

To read more about legislation that is pending in your state, go to www.api4animals.org/b4_legislation.php and check back to the site frequently beginning in December.

Thanks to all those who voted on these and many other important issues at the polls yesterday!

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Tagged: animals animal+rights action+alerts api Animal+Protection+Institute mid-term+elections 2006+mid-terms ballot+initiatives

Via the Animal Protection Institute:

Start Making Plans to Celebrate National Bird Day

January 5, 2007 will herald the fifth annual celebration of National Bird Day. To commemorate the occasion, the Animal Protection Institute (API), in coordination with the Avian Welfare Coalition (AWC), is calling on activists around the U.S. to take action on behalf of captive birds, by drawing attention to the exploitation of other country’s native birds that is being perpetrated by the U.S. pet industry.

Since there are a variety of things you can do to benefit the birds, some of which will take a bit of advanced planning, there seemed like no better time than the present to bring your attention toward this upcoming occasion and stress the need to take action on behalf of the birds.

You can help the birds and celebrate National Bird Day in many ways. Click here to find out more.

Free 2007 National Bird Day Posters Available to Activists!

Thanks for Flocking Together to Help the Birds!

My mostest favoritist poster below the jump.

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———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] api4animals.org
Date: Oct 27, 2006 1:06 PM
Subject: API to be featured in ABC News “20/20” investigation airing 10/27/06

API to be featured in ABC News “20/20” investigation airing 10/27/06

Earlier this year API launched a groundbreaking investigation into the private ownership of dangerous exotic animals in the U.S., showcasing footage gathered by our investigative team during the latter part of 2005. (See our footage at www.api4animals.org/a3b_exotic_pets.php.) In an effort to bring this vital information to a wider audience, API contacted ABC following our launch, and triggered producers’ interest in knowing more about roadside zoos, private menageries, and private owners of exotic animals; the dangers of keeping wild animals in private settings; and the laws and regulations that protect the animals — and the people around them.

For more than 8 months, API has since been working with producers from ABC News on a story born from our investigation. Tonight this story will air and 20/20 will feature API, including an interview with API CEO Michelle Thew, in its investigation into the dangers of private animal “sanctuaries.”

Be sure to tune in and watch this important edition of 20/20!

Learn more at www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=978&more=1.

Other Ways You Can Help:

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Via the Animal Protection Institute:

Vote for the Animals This Election Day

In just a few weeks it will be time to head to the voting booth again. No matter in which state you live, the voting decisions you make can be used to effect a positive difference for animals.

Besides electing state officials who will help advance the cause of animal protection in this country, depending in which state you live there may also be important ballot initiatives that need your input (either in support or opposition).

Become an Informed Voter

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———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] api4animals.org
Date: Oct 12, 2006 2:05 PM
Subject: Elephants and Other Circus Animals Need Your Help

Improve Life for Elephants in Zoos and Circuses

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently seeking public comments on space requirements and living conditions for captive elephants in the U.S.

This important decision comes as a result of intense media and public scrutiny over the plight of elephants living in zoos and circuses. It also follows the submission of a citizen’s petition by In Defense of Animals to the USDA seeking enforcement of the Animal Welfare Act’s adequate space provision at zoos and circuses across the country.

It is critical for the future well-being of captive elephants in the U.S. that the USDA receives strong letters in support of dramatically improving the conditions provided for these magnificent animals.

Please write today to speak out on behalf of elephants! Click here for full details.

Help End the Use of Wild and Exotic Animals in Circuses

Circus animals need your help! The use of animal performers in the circus is an unnecessary and inhumane practice that is harmful to both the animals and the public. Wild animals are trained to perform unnatural tricks to entertain crowds through the use of barbaric tools — including bullhooks, chains, and electric prods. These tricks are unnatural, frightening, and even painful; but the industry’s mantra is “the show must go on.”

Even worse, the USDA has documented that all major circuses have been cited for deficiencies in their animal care, noting in many cases that even minimal care requirements are not being met. It is no secret that animals in circuses spend most of their days in boxcars, cages, or chains, in conditions very different from those in which they would naturally live.

Please sign API’s petition today, and join us in telling Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey to put a stop to animal cruelty and to cease using wild and exotic animals in its circuses! Click here for full details.

Other Ways You Can Help

Shop The Vegetarian Site — www.thevegetariansite.com — during the month of October, and API receives 10% of your purchase price. Choose from a wide selection of ethically manufactured products including footwear, clothing, accessories, groceries, and more. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping and visit www.thevegetariansite.com today!

API’s 2007 Primate Sanctuary Calendar: API and our Primate Sanctuary have teamed up with Turner Publishing Company to bring you this delightful 14″x11″ wall calendar for 2007. Each month provides a glimpse into daily life at the Sanctuary for residents such as Darwin, Carly, Boon, Tilly, and more. The calendar’s vibrant, contrasting colors and informational tidbits make them perfect gifts for the upcoming holiday season. A portion of all calendar sales benefits the API Primate Sanctuary. Order yours today!

Posted 10/12/06 – Okay to Forward/Crosspost

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Please do not reply to this email. Send any questions to the webmaster [at] api4animals.org.

Copyright ©2006 Animal Protection Institute, PO Box 22505, Sacramento, CA 95822.

Via the Animal Protection Institute:

Sign a Petition to Help Farmed Animals

As you may already know, API recently released the results of a landmark investigation, “Driving Pain”, exposing the shocking cruelty involved in farmed animal transport. Along with Compassion in World Farming (CIWF), API worked to investigate the transport of live farmed animals throughout the United States, uncovering horrible conditions and long periods of grueling travel. The investigation documented the transport of live cows within the U.S. and the transport of pigs from the U.S. to Mexican slaughterhouses.

Animals can legally be transported for up to 28 hours, but this law is rarely if ever enforced. Even if enforced, 28 hours is far too long to assure the well-being of transported farm animals. Join us in calling on Congress to enact meaningful legislation to regulate the transport of farmed animals throughout the United States and across our borders.

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] api4animals.org
Date: Sep 28, 2006 6:05 PM
Subject: Good News for Companion Animals in the U.S.

Good News for Companion Animals in the U.S.

We are excited to let you know that all of your help making phone calls, writing letters, and sending emails over the past several months has resulted in great news — for companion animals in California, and all across the U.S.

In California, Governor Schwarzenegger has just signed two important pieces of legislation into law. We hope this will pave the way for other states across the U.S. to take these important steps.

(More below the fold…)

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] api4animals.org
Date: Sep 20, 2006 2:05 PM
Subject: Celebrate World Farm Animals Day with API! Take Action in CA and OH for Animals!

National Alert: Help Celebrate World Farm Animals Day October 2, 2006

Speak Out Against Cruel Transport of Farmed Animals!

API recently released the results of a landmark investigation “Driving Pain”, exposing the shocking cruelty involved in farmed animal transport.

Along with Compassion in World Farming (CIWF), API worked to investigate the transport of live farmed animals throughout the United States, uncovering horrible conditions and long periods of grueling travel. The investigation documented the transport of live cows within the U.S. and the transport of pigs from the U.S. to Mexican slaughterhouses.

Please join us in urging Congress to enact a law regulating the transport of farmed animals throughout the United States and across our borders.

Free API cow mug to the first 10 people who send a completed transport petition to API!

Click here for details.

(More below the fold…)

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: API Newsletters – donotreply [at] api4animals.org
Date: Sep 13, 2006 5:06 AM
Subject: Victory for the Horses; Take Action to Help Wildlife and Circus Animals

National Alerts

Victory for Horses! Horse Slaughter Ban Passes U.S. House of Representatives

Fantastic News! On September 7, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act (H.R. 503) by a vote of 263–146. Many thanks to everyone who called, wrote, and emailed your Representatives urging them to protect horses. These efforts have been rewarded with this historic victory.

Now it’s time for the Senate to act and pass S. 1915 (identical to H. 503). Your calls and letters are now needed to your two U.S. Senators to ensure that this important bill achieves victory there as well, and America’s horses are finally afforded the protection they deserve.

Please make your voice heard for the horses! Go to www.api4animals.org/actionalerts?p=140&more=1 for details on what you can do.

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