www.vancouverhumanesociety.bc.ca

Volume 39 - AUTUMN 2007

VHSVHS helpshelps rescuerescue 100100 SAVED!SAVED!batterybattery henshens

By Debra Probert issue. Let me tell you her story, and same treatment as her leghorn sisters. you can judge for yourself. Please The she lived on is very small, hy egg-laying hens?” is a keep in mind that there are 26 million with only around 100 hens at a time, question we are often hens in Canada incarcerated in battery cages. but the conditions are identical to a ‘Wasked. I think the picture Josie, although not the typical white typical battery farm. of the hen on the front page will give leghorn hen used on larger intensive you some idea of why we chose this , was subjected to exactly the Continued on pages 6 and 7 See page 5 for some great VHS merchandise Editorial: The climate cost of factory farming By Peter Fricker 736,500 cubic yards of manure in 2000 and If all this weren’t bad enough, the valley’s this is expected to rise to one million cubic farms are also contributing to global warm- he Fraser Valley, once a bucolic yards per year by 2010. ing. Another sobering study by the FAO landscape of small family farms, has The huge excess of manure is the direct found that production causes an Tbecome a casualty of one of the great result of the intensification of estimated 18 per cent of total human-induced global issues of the 21st century: the dirty, over the last 20 years. The Fraser Valley has greenhouse-gas emissions globally – more dangerous and inhumane business of more farm per square kilometre than all forms of transportation combined. intensive agriculture – a business driven by than anywhere else in Canada and the Not surprisingly, has our insatiable demand for cheap meat. highest concentration of very large farms. also created an welfare nightmare for Earlier this year, the B.C. Agriculture The biggest change has been in the the chickens, pigs and packed into Council quietly released a study which industrialization of the poultry industry. cages, crates and feedlots to produce cheap found “high to very high environmental While the number of chickens in the Fraser meat, eggs and dairy products. The Fraser risk” levels of nitrates in the soil of a Valley has increased, the number of poultry Valley is just one small example of an inhu- number of the valley’s farms. Several farms has decreased. During the 1990s the mane agricultural model that has been previous studies have identified agriculture number of chickens per farm increased by 78 exported to developing countries worldwide. as the main source of nitrates leaching into per cent. Out with the family farm’s hen- Structural reforms, such as dispersing the the Abbotsford aquifer, which supplies house and in with giant broiler barns for existing CAFOs in the Fraser Valley and ban- drinking water to 100,000 people. meat chickens and battery cages for egg- ning new operations might help reduce local Specifically, it’s the enormous amount of laying hens. The factory farm has arrived in pollution, but the real answer is to reduce surplus, nitrate-rich livestock manure that’s a big way. our meat consumption. Large-scale livestock the problem. spray masses of it on Agriculture has not only been identified production is inflicting industrialized cruelty crops as fertilizer, causing excess nutrients as a cause of water pollution, but also as a on countless animals, polluting our air and such as nitrates, phosphates and potassium contributor to air pollution in the valley. water and contributing in a major way to to seep into the soil and groundwater. Ammonia from livestock manure (chiefly potentially catastrophic climate change. High levels of nitrates in drinking water poultry) accounts for three-quarters of That’s why the Vancouver Humane are associated with blue baby syndrome, a ammonia emissions in the Lower Fraser Society is calling on Canada’s key environ- condition which reduces babies’ ability to Valley. Ammonia can react with other mental groups to make livestock production carry sufficient oxygen in the blood. Nitrates pollutants to form fine particulates, which a priority issue in their climate change work. also cause excessive algae growth in water- can be harmful to respiratory health. Last It’s time environmentalists and all of us rec- ways, suffocating aquatic life. year, the Fraser Valley Regional District’s ognized a fact: eating less meat will not only The surplus manure is from the valley’s director of planning said that within the save animals from factory farm cruelty – it 128,000 cattle, 95,500 pigs, 767,000 turkeys next five to seven years “agriculture will be will help save the planet. and, most importantly, its 15.4 million more responsible for air pollutants than all This article appeared in the Vancouver Sun on chickens. The chickens alone produced the vehicular transportation in the valley.” Sept. 25, 2007.

DONATIONS

Special Occasion Donations Lorna Harris, in memory of Ann Jones and Jessie June Humphreys, in memory of Julianna Holmes; Marineau; Joanne Chang, in memory of Lise George’s “India”. From Michael, Lisa, Rebecca and Sarah, to Thomas Jim Harrison, in memory of Tina Harrison; Douglas, in honour of Father’s Day; Cathy Morton, in memory of Brandy; Thank you to the following generous businesses Cynthia Budgell, in honour of Jonathan Budgell’s Patricia Redman, in memory of Diane Slark; who donate to our work directly or indirectly birthday; Diane and Allan Ferrell, in memory of Ivy Fales; through owners or employees: Cathy Morton, in honour of Lil Morton’s birthday; Jackie Weiler, in memory of Dixie; Cambridge Plumbing Systems Ltd.; Ellen and J.R. Barberie, in honour of Amanda Gordon Surgeson, in memory of Richard (Dick) Doggy Style Deli; Brotman and Antoine Schetritt’s wedding; Surgeson; Jamie’s Whaling Station; Mark Kamstra and Lisa Kramer, in honour of Heidi Carol, Gina & Family, in memory of Richard (Dick) Keystone Extras; Wood and Graham Olney’s wedding; Surgeson; Elan Records Canada (Harmony Gig CD sales); Joe, Louise and David Paquin, in honour of Keith Yani Mitchell, in memory of Jenny; Harvey McKinnon Associates; Jarvis and Brian Fair; David Black, in memory of Alexia Erickson; Jan Corkan Incorporated. From “Li’l Bro” in honour of Judy Mason’s birthday; Jackie Carnegie, in memory of Shadow; Dr. Maureen Lennon, in honour of Becci’s birthday; Anon, in memory of Sasha Turunen; Employee Groups Lori Braha in honour of Tanya Kalashnikov’s birthday. Ruth Comisarow, in memory of Beastie; A huge thank you to TELUS and TELUS employees Ann, Robyn, Liv & Zai, in memory of Digby; and retirees for designating $1355 to VHS in their Memorial Donations are a meaningful way to Margaret Terry, in memory of Ben Nendick; Dollars for Dollars 2006 Campaign. TELUS has honour a loved one. VHS is grateful to have Hedley Heritage Museum Society, in memory of matched this donation, for a whopping $2710 to received donations in memory of the following: Ben Nendick; VHS! Thank you! Anon, in memory of Ms. Magoo; Bruce and Marian Wallace, in memory of Ben Cathy Spence, in memory of her mother, Pearl Nendick; Others Spence; Tina Cohoon, in memory of Dawn Cassidy; And a special thank you to the UBC Book Sale Sharon & Victor Rempel, in memory of Alex Karen Nendick, in memory of Ben Nendick; Committee, who supports animal groups like VHS Wallach (for Father’s Day); Peter and Mariana Lee, in memory of Dawn every year with their terrific book sale. Jessie Tasker, in memory of Alex Wallach; Cassidy; Irina M. Reid, in memory of Bree; June Humphreys, in memory of Oscar Edmonds.

Page 2 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Cage-free catching on VHS’s Chicken Out! program enjoys more success

By Bruce Passmore

ince the last newsletter, the BC Institute of Technology (BCIT) Sbecame the second educational insti- tution in Canada to completely remove eggs produced by caged hens from cam- pus food services. Langara College took the lead earlier this year and schools from coast to coast are now working on vary- ing degrees of cage-free procurement policies. In fact, we won’t “count our chickens before they hatch” so to speak, but we should have some big announce- ments to make by the end of the year. Thanks to VHS, more and more institutions are deciding to buy eggs from cage-free hens. Stay tuned! August saw the Resort Municipality of let us know what they say. (For complete Thanks to you, thousands of hens are Whistler become the latest community to details on the Whistler decision, visit the able to flap their wings, dust bathe, nest request the removal of eggs from caged news section of www.chickenout.ca.) and perch. These are the changes we are hens from municipally-run facilities. Does cage-free mean cruelty-free? No. seeing immediately. This is why we do Whistler council went one step further Not all cage-free systems have the same the work we do. than both Richmond and Vancouver standards (Certified Organic have the • (which passed similar initiatives earlier highest), and most egg-laying hens, cage- VHS would like to send a special thank this year) by sending a letter to the Union free or not, are subject to the same trans- you to the William and Charlotte Parks of BC Municipalities requesting all port and slaughter conditions. But we can Foundation for Animal Welfare for their municipalities in BC follow Whistler’s tell you that getting hens out of cages generous support of the Chicken Out! lead and remove battery hen eggs from relieves the most egregious and longest project. Their kind support means we can menus. Who will be next? Your munici- part of their suffering – the 12 to 18 continue our important work getting hens pality? If you write to your council polite- months they spend crammed into a tiny out of battery cages. www.parksfounda- ly requesting they follow Whistler’s lead, cage with 5 to 7 other hens. tion.org B.C. communities want on the ropes action on exotics The Cloverdale Rodeo has been denied official sanctioning by the Canadian Professional Rodeo Animal supporters are waiting to see if the B.C. Association (CPRA). This means the rodeo will no government will announce strong legislation to longer be a part of the CPRA competition circuit. address the problem of exotic animals. The The loss of the sanctioned status is a result of the government promised to act after a young woman Cloverdale Rodeo’s decision to drop four roping was killed by a captive tiger near 100 Mile House, events after years of pressure from VHS and animal B.C. earlier this year. rights activists. The CPRA requires to have The Union of B.C. Municipalities voted to call on the provincial these events to be officially sanctioned. government to come up with legislation to deal with the issue. Currently, A number of other rodeos in B.C. are sanctioned by there is a patchwork of municipal exotic pet bylaws which provide the CPRA, including the Abbotsford Rodeo in the varying degrees of protection for exotic species. Many cities and towns Lower Mainland. have no such bylaws at all. VHS has called for a province-wide ban on sale and private ownership of exotic pets.

Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Page 3 Beef and breast cancer — a deadly connection? By Dr. Ray Kellosalmi an increased of breast cancer; In 2003, a study at he Portland VA Medical Centre This article was published on the Globe and found red meat intake was significantly Mail website on July 25, 2007 associated with an increased breast cancer risk. arlier this year the Calgary These come on top of a number studies Stampede issued a press release associating meat consumption with a Estating: “The 2007 Calgary variety of other cancers, such as colon, Stampede will see a concentrated focus stomach and bowel cancers. on the beef industry.” In October, the While scientists may debate whether Stampede will host “Beef 2007” the there is enough evidence for a certain International Livestock Congress. causal relationship between meat and Nothing odd about that. After all, rodeo breast cancer, surely there is sufficient and the beef industry are inextricably information to raise serious concerns. linked, with one promoting and support- Some cancer charities recommend lim- ing the other. iting meat consumption. The World What is odd is that the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Fund, for example, Cancer Foundation (CBCF) would advises eating no more than 80gm of red involve itself with activities that promote meat per day. Obviously, a precautionary the consumption of beef when meat has approach makes sense to some experts. been linked to cancer in numerous stud- Given all this, you would think that ies. CBCF would stay well clear of even the Over the past couple of years a number most tenuous association with the meat of rodeos across Canada, most notably A number of studies have linked eating meat industry. Linking up with rodeos and cat- the Calgary Stampede, have taken part in with an increased risk of breast cancer. tlemen is a bit like the Canadian Lung a fundraising campaign for the CBCF Association fundraising at an event spon- called Tough Enough to Wear Pink. consumption and breast cancer: sored by the tobacco industry. Supported by the Wrangler clothing Just this month (July), a well-publicized The hoopla that surrounds the Tough company, the campaign raises money study showed that Asian women who Enough to Wear Pink campaign is sup- through sales of pink Wrangler shirts and adopted the Western “meat-sweet” diet posed to raise awareness of cancer. But other pink-themed merchandise, a per- (high in meat and sugar) were at higher are all those people buying pink shirts at centage of which goes to the CBCF. risk of developing breast cancer. rodeo country fairs being made aware of Everyone seems to benefit. Wrangler’s In May, a study funded by the American the mounting research that links cancer brand is promoted and the CBCF gets Institute for Cancer Research found that and meat? Perhaps that wouldn’t go money for cancer research. And the rodeo women who consistently consume a diet down too well when the Calgary can associate itself with a worthy cause – high in grilled, barbecued or smoked meat Stampede is hosting “Beef 2007.” quite handy to blunt criticism over its and low in vegetables and fruit significant- Everyone wants to find a cure for can- controversial treatment of animals. ly increased their risk of developing post- cer but there seems to be more and more (Although one anti-rodeo activist recently menopausal breast cancer. people who are interested in preventing told a Calgary newspaper that it was like In April, an eight-year study at the the disease. If diet, including the reduc- putting pink icing on a cow pat.) University of Leeds found that women tion of meat consumption, proves to be But while the CBCF joins the cowboys, eating large amounts of red and part of an effective prevention strategy, cattle producers and meat companies at processed meat have a significantly high- then how will the CBCF justify its public rodeo barbeques across the country, er chance of developing breast cancer relations connections to the very people shouldn’t it consider the health implica- compared to those on vegetarian diets. who help promote meat? tions of the product it is indirectly help- Earlier studies made similar findings. Perhaps it’s time the CBCF looked ing to promote? For example: In 2006, a Harvard Medical beyond lucrative fundraising schemes In 2007 alone, several pieces of research School study found that younger women and looked for partners more in line with have made connections between meat who regularly ate red meat appear to face its purpose.

Page 4 Printed with vegetabled-based ink on recycled paper. Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Shop for Christmas with VHS Help spread the word about VHS with one of these great gifts. Not only will you get a great product, you’ll also be contributing to our work to improve the lives of animals

Show your love of animals to everyone The picture on these beautiful note cards Look hot in these women’s 100% cotton around you AND help the environment by was painted by VHS supporter Teresa tank-tops. Black with white lettering. S,M,L. using one of these stainless steel VHS trav- Knight. They’re blank and suitable for any Cost:$25 (additional costs for shipping out- el mugs. Ethically produced, the mug is a occasion. Cost; $12 for 8 (includes ship- side Canada). stylish and practical way to show your sup- ping). port for VHS. Cost: $16 ($7 for shipping) Nature, Students get connected n early October, VHS gave a tions existed to mitigate the neg- Idynamic and thought provok- ative effects factory farming animals ing presentation to two classes might have on that issue. of students from Capilano The results were sobering: College’s Global Stewardship everyone agreed that humans and us program. The aim of the presen- need to reduce their meat con- tation was to examine if factory sumption, and that a better farming is a major global issue, solution would be to go vegetar- on film and if so, how it influences or ian. As a result, many pledged fits into other major issues like to take a more active role in the Earthlings, a powerful doc- global warming, poverty, issue of factory farming and its umentary about the relation- human rights, etc. expansion in developing ship between nature, ani- 6138 Student Union Blvd. in After a brief overview on nations, with some even sug- mals and humankind, will Vancouver. The screening is modern intensive farming, stu- gesting that they would incor- be screened on Thursday, free but donations will be dents broke into small groups to porate educating people on the November 8 at 7 p.m. at the accepted, with all proceeds analyze factory farming’s effects negative effects of intensive UBC Normand Bouchard going to People for the on a single other global issue, farming into their careers. Memorial AMS Theatre in Ethical Treatment of and what, if any, possible solu- the Student Union Building, Animals.

Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Page 5 Home on the (free) range — at last! One hundred former battery hens are set free in Gulf Islands sanctuary Continued from front page Sanctuary, I routinely care for injured, abandoned, and neglected animals and Josie was crammed into a cage with birds. In our almost four years of opera- several other hens (see photo – Josie tion, I’ve seen my share of animals who was delivered to the sanctuary in her have endured a great deal of suffering. cramped cage, which was her home for “Our recent rescue of 100 battery 18 months.) She spent her entire time in hens is a stark reminder of the indiffer- this cage, competing with the other hens ence that can take place when animals for space, rubbing her neck raw against are treated as commodities. The day the the wire cage reaching for food and lay- hens arrive is always a day of mixed ing an egg approximately every 24-36 emotions - on the one hand I find hours. The first time she ever felt the sun myself angered that the hens are Above: The hens arrived at the RestQ Sanctuary in their cramped cages awaiting their first taste of freedom. Above right: After spending on her back was when her cage was allowed to live as they do (for a full 18 her whole life squashed together in a battery cage with four other birds, this hen has lost most of the feathers on her neck. Below right: This taken out of the barn and put on a truck. months to 2 years) and on the other hen enjoys her first wobbly steps outside a cage.All the rescued hens will lead now a free-range life where they can feel the sun on their Josie was never able to stretch her hand, I’m elated that for the hens we’re backs, scratch in the ground and live out their lives as nature intended. wings. She was never able to scratch in able to rescue (but a small drop in the the earth. Her natural urge to build a is provided that allows access to a large to a large flock of chickens, we are tinue to promote suffering. Your sup- bucket we realize), that Rest.Q will have nest was completely thwarted. Dr. Ian outdoor pen. As the hens have never unable to provide permanent housing to port of such efforts are welcomed and a chance to undo some of the horrors Duncan, international poultry expert, walked for extended periods before, the large number of battery hens we appreciated. Certainly, the rescue effort they’ve suffered. describes nesting as the strongest moti- they often take exaggerated steps as if assist. Thus, we’ll often adopt out hens described here would not have been vation for hens, even above that of he suffering the hens experi- walking on the moon. They are general- to individuals equipped to take on the possible without the support of VHS.” obtaining food. Denying hens this fun- ence is told by their plumage. ly weak and for some, stepping over the challenge of rehabilitation. All homes We at VHS are inspired by the story of damental behaviour is cruel and results ‘TThey often arrive with naked lip of the ramp into the henhouse is a are screened and adopters pledge that these hens, and the compassion of Dr. in extreme frustration, and possibly necks and picked bottoms. Open sores challenge. Keep in mind that these hens the hens will never be used as food, that Binfet and the others at Rest.Q. We will even pain. are common from battles with cage- have lived in incredibly cramped quar- predator-proof housing is available, and continue to support the rescue of more Josie’s neck, as you can see in the mates and constant rubbing against ters where stretching wings and turning that they may be returned to Rest.Q at hens and tell their stories. Please help photo on the cover, has been rubbed metal caging. Burned beak tips are around is difficult at best. any point. After a short time at the sanc- us by showing people this article – espe- raw from reaching out of the wire cage commonplace. While the hens are clear- “In time, the hens gain strength, tuary some of the hens will transition to cially the pictures. It’s an effective way for food. Her beak has been sliced off at ly traumatized, they slowly begin to rel- becoming curious and learning to relish new homes whereas some of the more to kick start the compassion that is the tip – a common procedure with bat- ish life at the sanctuary. Their forgiving life. I will often sit outside their pen and “battered” hens will stay on as perma- inherent in all human beings. You have tery hens, to stop them from pecking and resilient nature is admirable. At marvel as they scratch for seed for the nent residents. the ability to stop this suffering, by each other. Rest.Q we focus on what will be, of the first time, flap their wings, sit and enjoy escuing battery hens is a reminding people that they have a I asked Dr. Ty Binfet, the founder of possibilities that exist for the hens rather a sunbath, or roll in the dirt. Eventually, stressful yet exhilarating choice. If all consumers reduced their Rest.Q Sanctuary, to tell me in his own than the deplorable condition they they will take food from a hand, come ‘Rundertaking. Organizations consumption of eggs and switched to words how he felt shortly after rescuing arrive in. when called for feed, and learn to run such as the Vancouver Humane Society certified organic eggs (available in these hens in September. “We ensure the transition to a free- for cover when our resident eagle soars work tirelessly to challenge convention- almost every grocery store), the every- “As the director and primary caregiv- ranging life is taken slowly and done at overhead. al thinking around the treatment of hens day suffering of millions of birds would er of the residents at Rest.Q Animal the pace of the hens. A secure hen house “As Rest.Q Sanctuary is already home and archaic farming conditions that con- be exponentially reduced.

Page 6 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Page 7 Liberation B.C. activists gained high profile media coverage with a demo to draw attention to the plight of turkeys on Thanksgiving. Liberation B.C.’s campaign director, Joanne Chang, described to reporters the grotesque living conditions that turkeys endure before being slaughtered. We have to change: industry n September, VHS representative ers to ignore it. ists must move on in order to improve Debra Probert attended the first ani- Speakers included Cornelius Rhein moral standards. Imal welfare conference presented by from the European Commission; Dr. David Trus of Agriculture and Agri- the National Farm Animal Care Council David Bayvel, Chair of the OIE Animal Food Canada stated that the Canadian (NFACC), which is a new organization Welfare Working Group, and Dr. John government is hearing that animal wel- with a mandate to provide a national Webster from the University of Bristol. fare is a growing concern to the public coordinated approach to farm animal They outlined the changes in Europe, and that it can no longer be handled “off care. Unfortunately, this organization is including the movement away from the corner of the desk.” heavily weighted with industry members, intensive confinement, particularly bat- Encouraging? Absolutely. It was obvi- permitting only one animal welfare repre- tery cages and sow crates. Repeated was ous that we are on the right track by sentative from the Canadian Federation the sentiment that large retailers, driven focusing our efforts on consumers and of Humane Societies (CFHS) (please see by consumers, are having a profound retailers, and that our alliances with oth- http://www.nfacc.ca/AboutNFACC.aspx influence on animal welfare with internal ers in the animal protection movement, for a list of members). As a consequence, animal welfare standards. This has such as Humane Society International the humane community feels this organi- become necessary because industry has (Canada), the BC SPCA and others are zation is not likely to effectively address been slow to respond to concerns, so the effective and productive. farm animal welfare issues. retailers are instituting standards them- It was also obvious that you, our sup- However, the conference provided a selves. porters, are having a huge impact on useful forum for discussion of trends in Mike Siemens of Cargill Beef and farm animal welfare. Congratulations – farm animal welfare, internationally as Catherine Scovil of the Canadian Pork your letters, emails and comments to gov- well as in Canada. The range of speakers Council both spoke of how effective ani- ernment and retailers; your conversations was impressive and their message was mal protectionists and their initiatives with friends and relatives, and your consistent – consumer concern about the have been, specifically mentioning PETA financial support of effective, focused treatment of farm animals is increasing and HSUS. Mr. Siemens made the encour- organizations like VHS are all making the and it is no longer an option for produc- aging comment that industry obstruction- world a better place for animals!!

Page 8 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 New books — read all about it Pandemonium, by Andrew Nikiforuk. Viking moving at unprecedented speed. Avian flu, Canada. $34. just one example, has the potential to cause a Andrew human pandemic, but Nikiforuk warns there Nikiforuk, an are other threats from the inadvertent traffick- award-winning ing in lethal pathogens around the world. journalist, describes how the ExtraVeganZa, by Laura Matthias. New unchecked free Society Publishers. $29.95 trade in living ExtraVeganZa pushes the boundaries of organisms, vegan cuisine with delicious recipes, helpful increased mobil- photos and guidance on cooking with the sea- ity, and urban sons. The book embodies the vision of grow- crowding has ing your own food – or at least knowing created an where it comes from – and creating a more increasingly sustainable lifestyle. Laura Matthias, a field volatile environment biologist, organic and long-time vegan for the world’s 6.5 billion people. In has produced over 250 savoury and sweet Pandemonium, he argues that our health and recipes that will appeal to anyone who appre- habitat are threatened by biological invaders ciates good, wholesome food.

Thanks to the great companies that donated prizes to our volunteer program, allowing us to reward our hard-working volunteers:

Bosley’s Pet Food Plus Chi Cake Empire Theatres Festival Cinemas The Foundation IMAX Pacific Theatre Stong’s Market The Naam Vancouver International Film Festival (and Vancity Theatre) Survey says … You like us a lot! eaders have given a big thumbs up There was an overwhelming “no” to said they wanted to VHS to continue to Animal Writes! The results of our introducing an email newsletter – only 17 keeping costs low. Some said they regret- Rreadership survey have shown an per cent of respondents wanted an email ted not being able to donate more. But the overwhelming endorsement of the version. most common response was along the newsletter and the ways in which VHS They also gave us an indication of lines of: “Thanks and keep up the good communicates with its supporters. which animal issues they were most work!” A large majority of readers (80%) interested in reading about, with domes- VHS welcomes readers’ comments and thought the length of the newsletter (12 tic animals and farm animals leading the suggestions on the newsletter. It’s impor- pages) was “just right” and most were way, followed by exotic animals and tant to keep Animal Writes! current and also in favour of keeping the frequency of native wildlife. relevent to you, our readers and support- VHS’s supporter communications the Reader comments were also very posi- ers. same – three newsletters and three tive, with considerable support for the So keep those letters and ideas coming. updates per year. direction of VHS’s work. Several readers We look forward to hearing from you.

Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Page 9 Be media savvy for animals By Nicholas Read • Think individually. People relate far hen it comes to the news busi- better to stories of individual animals than ness, the good news is that the they do to stories about hundreds, thou- Wmedia take animal issues a lot sands or millions of them. So to tell that more seriously than they used to, espe- story about what happens to hundreds of cially here in B.C. The bad news is that cats or thousands of lab rats or millions of they still don’t take them seriously chickens, find one cat or lab rat or chicken enough. with an extraordinary tale to tell. Then by That means getting someone who telling the story of that one animal, you works in the media to take your concerns tell the story of the rest by extension. about animals seriously can be a chal- • Be brief. People in the media have very lenge. But it’s not an insurmountable one. short attention spans. So when you have You just have to know what to do. an idea, get right to the point in as few So here’s a checklist of what to keep in words as possible. A press release should mind the next time you attempt to get The media often sterotype animal-rights never be more than one page, and an e- someone in the media interested in what activists as difficult and extreme. Don’t mail never more than one paragraph. matters to you. allow them to exercise that prejudice. Provide comprehensive contact details. • Be new. Remember it’s called the news- Whom should the reporter contact about paper, not the oldspaper, and the Evening particularly offensive? If so, what is it and the story and how? Make sure that person News, not the Evening We Already Know why is it so offensive? Is there a new is available when the reporter calls. That. So whatever you have to pitch, make product on the market that’s particularly • Be polite. Animal-rights people have a sure it’s something the reporter won’t loathsome? What is it, and why is it so (sometimes justified) reputation for being have heard before. That can be tricky bad? (Again, notice the emphasis on the rude, impatient and unforgiving. That when the issue is a continuing one. There word, new.) won’t get you anywhere. Instead, be as are always too many cats, and fur has • Think in pictures. More and more the nice as you can, because the reporter will been around as long as Canada has. So news business is about pictures, both respond to that and be nicer to you. you have to think of how you can spin moving and still. Regardless of whether • Be conservative. Don’t look like a that old story into a new one. you’re pitching a story to TV or the news- stereotypical animal-rights activist or • Be specific. People in the media don’t paper (the radio is an exception), think crazy cat lady when you meet the press. want to hear general complaints about the about how best to illustrate your story Dress neatly and conservatively. In other state of anything. They want concrete with pictures. Is there something a TV words, don’t give them any ammunition examples of what it is you’re complaining crew can film or a newspaper photogra- to make fun of you or take you less seri- about. Is there a new lab procedure that’s pher can shoot? If so, set it up for them. ously — because they will. New take on humane education e are thrilled with how successful other organizations within the environ- Vancouver as this newsletter is going to Wthis project has proven to be! Since mental and human rights movements. print. These new plans will ensure the its inception in February, 2006, hundreds So, for the time being, we will no maximum benefit within the limited of students and dozens of teachers have longer be offering one-off presentations in parameters of an organization as small been stimulated into thinking about the local high schools. Instead, we are focus- (but dynamic!) as VHS. choices that they make and how these ing on making our presentation materials Thank you to all of you who have choices impact animals, the environment available to teachers via our website, so donated and who continue to donate and other human beings on the planet. that teachers themselves can download specifically to this program. Our sincere Along with success, however, have information to present to their classes. We gratitude as well goes out to Lesley Fox come challenges. In order to address also plan to develop new presentations for her hard work, enthusiasm and inspi- these challenges and have the most on an ongoing basis for teachers to use. ration in getting this project off the impact on the greatest number of people, We’ll continue to maintain the website, ground. And a special thanks to the won- we are revamping the program. We need along with its exciting student forum. derful people at the Vancouver to take a step back and concentrate on And each year we’ll host (along with Foundation who have supported our establishing a more stable foundation so EarthSave Canada and other partners) the project not just once, but twice, believing that we can continue this important ini- Institute for Humane Education’s Sowing in VHS and our vision for a more tiative. One avenue we’ll be exploring to Seeds Humane Education training work- humane and compassionate society. strengthen the program is to partner with shop, which will be taking place in Stay tuned!!!

Page 10 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 News briefs … A high-fat diet, especially one with lots ble household products are increasingly of red meat, not only can increase the risk available. Shoppers Drug Mart Life of developing colon cancer, it increases Brand Bio*Life dish soap is not tested on risk of reoccurrence of colon cancer or animals and does not contain any animal- death, according to a study published in derived ingredients. It contains renew- the August 14, 2007 edition of the Journal able, plant-based oils in place of synthetic of the American Medical Association. and petroleum-based chemicals and is Study participants who most closely fol- phosphate-free. (And it works!!) lowed the “Western” diet with lots of red • and processed meats, sweets, desserts, Amsterdam’s coffee shops are switching French fries and refined grains experi- to free-range eggs to make their famous enced 3.3 higher risk for reoccurrence “spacecakes” which are baked with VHS out and about than those who followed a more “pru- hashish or marijuana and can give an VHS attended these summer events: dent” diet. (Western Producer, August 23, intense high. The switch is due to cam- Richmond Hamilton Community 2007) paigning by the Dutch animal rights Festival • group Wakker Dier. (Reuters, Africa; Riley Park Farmer’s Market Cruelty-free, environmentally-responsi- October 3, 2007) Golden Spike Days - Canada Day Vancouver Folk Music Festival VHS would like to thank these media The British Columbia Foundation for Richmond Animal Wellness Expo for their coverage of the egg issue: Non-Animal Research has a new West End Farmer’s Market The Nik and Val Show (CFUN Radio) website: www.bcfnar.org. The BCFNAR East Van Farmer’s Market Animal Voices (CO-OP Radio) is a registered non-profit organization Animal Rights Day The Vancouver Courier dedicated to the support and promotion Davie Days The Vancouver Sun of alternative methods to the use of Kitsilano Farmer’s Market The Richmond News animals in scientific research. Taste of Health The Richmond Review UBC Sustainability Fair HERE ARE 4 GOOD REASONS

WHY YOU SHOULD REMEMBER ANIMALS IN YOUR WILL Against Please contact our office for further information. all animal cruelty!

Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Page 11 HAPPY ENDINGS VHS is used to helping animals get out Phoenix, a handsome Rottweiler, of bad situations, but this is one of the needed surgery to repair a ruptured happiest endings we’ve helped achieve. cruciate ligament. VHS contributed Some schoolchildren found a rooster at toward the cost of the operation and the bottom of a ravine in East Phoenix is now on the mend. Vancouver. He was missing most of his • toes and had also been abused (some sick Punky, right, a two-year-old male individual had shoved a paint brush up Persian, was his rear). The kids took him back to their gravely ill school and a teacher contacted VHS. with a urinary We advised calling the BC SPCA and a tract blockage. VHS helped constable collected the rooster. VHS cover the costs offered to pay for veterinary treatment of urgent and to find the unfortunate bird a home. medical care He was transferred to the Night Owl and Punky is Bird Hospital where the veterinarian now home found he had suffered no serious trauma and getting but had an ear infection. While he back to his old received treatment, VHS found a • self. generous supporter in Maple Ridge who • had a flock of hens and said she would Sunshine (below right) is a 14-year-old female cat who was very ill with thyroid Leo (below right) is a young male cat welcome a rooster. problems. She means everything to her who was hit by a car and wandered After completing his treatment he was guardian, who lives in supported housing injured for nearly a week before returning transferred to his new home, where he and could not to his guardian. His right hind leg was was at first stunned to see the hens, but afford broken in two places and was completely then extremely excited and pleased (he Sunshine’s out of the hip socket. His guardian, a crowed a lot!). He was also thrilled to be veterinary student, fed a variety of vegetables and other bills. VHS is could not food, having probably eaten only pellets helping out afford the full before. with the cost cost of Leo’s Despite his lack of toes, he gets around of Sunshine’s medical well and is now cock-a-hoop about his ongoing care treatment so new life. This is one happy rooster. and we are VHS stepped • hopeful she in to help. Fluffy, a 13-year-old male cat with will make a He is now kidney and thyroid problems, need full recovery. recovering urgent medical help so VHS ensued he • well. got the veterinary care he needed. Fluffy is doing fine now. #303-8623 Granville Board of directors: Peter Fricker, Projects and communications director St., Vancouver, B.C. Liberty Mulkani, President Bruce Passmore, Farm animal welfare project coordinator V6P 5A2 Laura Brown, Secretary Kaylee Yochim, Outreach coordinator Phone: 604-266-9744 Joanne Chang, Treasurer Corita Chan, Administrative assistant Fax: 604-266-1311 Margaret Adams, Director Newsletter Jason Halvorson, Director Peter Fricker, Editor Web: www.vancouverhumanesociety.bc.ca June Humphreys, Director Email: [email protected] Lana Grosse, Director Contributing Writers: Staff: Bruce Passmore, Debra Probert, Ray Kellosalmi, Nicholas Debra Probert, Executive director Read, Peter Fricker

Our Privacy Commitment to You It is very frustrating for all of us when we open our mail- simply put, we can help more animals. And it is our sincere You, our supporters, are our most valuable resource. Without box to find that we have received donation requests from promise to you that we will only exchange lists with organi- you, we would not be able to do the work that we do. You are worthy organizations, many of which we would like to sup- zations with similar views and policies. Even knowing how our lifeblood. When we expose and protest animal abuse, we port. Not only is it a waste of paper and postage, it is often important it is to us, if you still do not want VHS to share know that you are right behind us, ready to speak out for those heartbreaking to open the envelope and be told yet another your name, just phone the office and we will honor your who cannot defend themselves. And for that, we thank you. story of sadness and despair. request. Sometimes it is very advantageous for groups like ours to That is why when we do share information about our sup- Do you want to become a VHS member? Just let us know. share information. This is the fastest and most economical porters; we do it ONLY with like-minded organizations - The membership fee is $2 per year. The only other things we way for us to inform people like you about animal issues. It other people who care about animal suffering and want to require are that you have interests that are compatible with is also the most efficient way for VHS to grow and become put their resources towards exposing and stopping it. If you our goals and philosophy, and that you donate two hours per more effective. allow us to share information with other like-minded groups, week (or the equivalent) of your time.

Page 12 Printed with vegetable-based ink on recycled paper. Vancouver Humane Society ~ Volume 39 - Autumn 2007