We are on calling on the Government of Canada to implement immediate and broad sweeping changes to ensure that the five freedoms for animal welfare are met and adhered to within the veal industry. 

The government needs to demonstrate and ensure that there are regulations in place to protect veal calves from the cruelty that is inherent in this industry.

The government must immediately end the practice of housing veal calves in crates. 

Scientific research has shown that crates obstruct calf needs by restricting normal resting postures, limiting movement and environmental exploration as well as by preventing normal grooming and social contact. Confined calves have shown prolonged inactivity, excessive licking, sucking and other oral stereotypies (i.e. repetitive tongue rolling) and tend to be more excitable than group housed calves. 

The government must immediately end of the practice of tethering calves to restrict their movement.  Calves must be allowed to engage in natural behaviours including exercise, contact with other calves and maternal care.

Veal calves must be allowed to suckle their mothers to ensure they receive the proper level of nutrition as well as fulfilling the social and developmental needs of these young and developing animals.

Immediately ban the practice of bob veal a specialty product in which the are calves less than 4 weeks old and generally under 80kg at the time of slaughter. 

The five freedoms include:

Freedom from hunger or thirst by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour

Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area

Freedom from pain, injury or disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment

Freedom to express (most) normal behaviour by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind

Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering

Photo copyright Mercy for Animals