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Lori begins with a story about a pigeon who caused a great stir in Australia when he was found by a couple there. That’s because he was wearing an identification band on his leg indicating he was from Alabama, so people presumed he had flown all the way across the pacific. This was not good news for Joe, as he was named, because it seemed that he’d evaded Australia’s strict biosecurity rules. He faced quarantine or even death. Fortunately, the ID band was determined to be a fake and so Joe was safe.
Lori continues speaking about the activity of pigeon racing, another example of animals being exploited for profit and entertainment. The specially bred birds are kept captive, and it is estimated that only 40% of those who race actually survive. And, not surprisingly, slow fliers are often killed by their owners.
Attorney Bob Ferber then returns to speak with Peter with bad news about the Los Angeles Animal Cruelty Task Force. Police Chief Michael Moore recently, and without warning, announced that this important and pioneering unit would be immediately disbanded.
The task force was created about 18 years ago by Ferber and a coalition of animal activists, after Ferber learned no one was investigating the crimes of dog fighting and cockfighting.
Neither animal control nor the LAPD was taking responsibility to respond to these brutal activities. The task force has served as a model throughout the country and, indeed, in other countries as well. Bob explains the consequences of not having the task force in LA and believes Chief Moore’s decision to end it will not sit well with citizens. Make your voice heard by writing to the Chief expressing your disapproval, and to LA Councilman Paul Koretz (the Council’s strongest animal advocate), encouraging him to push for the unit’s reinstatement.
And in recognition of National Hippopotamus Day, test your hippo smarts along with Peter.
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