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In defense of pit bulls
Lori begins with an impassioned discussion In defense of pit bulls on behalf of her favorite type of dog, the pit bull. More than other dogs these days, pit bulls are often seen in a negative light.
This has led towns and communities to enact ordinances against specific dog breeds, usually pit bulls, which typically restricts or prohibits ownership of those dogs.
Lori explains how these types of laws, often referred to as breed specific legislation, and are based on faulty premises and disregard scientific evidence about their lack of effectiveness. Breed-specific legislation also unfairly perpetuates false negative stereotypes about the targeted breeds. Fortunately, many communities that have such laws in place have rescinded them, or are considering doing so.
Hot Animal News
Then we continue with news items including New York State bans cat declawing over the objections of the New York State Veterinary Medical Society, Japanese researchers seek to grow human organs in the bodies of other live animals, the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recommends widespread adoption of plant-based diets to save the planet, and more.
The HEARTS Act promotes alternatives to animal testing
Peter then welcomes Monica Engebretson, North America Campaigns Manager for Cruelty Free International to discuss the HEARTS Act of 2019. The HEARTS Act (Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act) is federal legislation that seeks to encourage the use of humane and effective alternatives to animal testing for NIH funded research. After listening to this interview, read the text of the bill here and consider asking your legislators to co-sponsor the bill.
Lightning round animal quiz
We conclude with Peter’s close encounter with a group of javelinas, and a challenging little quiz about animals from around the globe.
Bonus question: What is a group of javelinas called? A squadron!
Mary says
Animal abuse is about all animals were the ones that abused them they don’t know any better all they know is how to love be compassionate and loyal some of the qualities a lot of us sitting here it animal abusers get off by a slap on the wrist their punishment should be far greater