For me, a dedicated rescuer of animals, every life matters and deserves respect and safety. Heartbreakingly, in parts of Wisconsin, domesticated rabbits, chickens, and ducks are forced into terrifying situations during community events where they are randomly released. These animals are fragile and vulnerable; such exposure not only scares them but is gravely unsafe.

Rabbits, for example, are prey animals and not equipped to survive in the harsh conditions of the wild where they encounter predators or challenging weather. According to the House Rabbit Society, domesticated rabbits have a survival rate of less than 10% when dumped in the wild. Chickens, too, are not capable of surviving without proper care and protection, while ducks, if not native to the release area, can disrupt local ecology and spread diseases.

But beyond the danger to the animals themselves, these practices demonstrate to our children a disregard for life and teach a lack of kindness and empathy for defenseless creatures. It is time we replace these outdated and cruel traditions with more responsible and compassionate practices. Public outcry has already led to progress in other states, so it is time for Wisconsin to follow suit.

We need your help to bring this issue to light and convince our local authorities to put a stop to such unsettling practices. Sign this petition and let's together end the inhumane and unsafe release of rabbits, chickens, and ducks at our community events.