DAVID APPERSON, loft manager of the first PURPLE HEART DOVECOTE in the USA, has spent 50 years breeding, raising, and training pigeons. Over the years he has witnessed birds arrive dead, shipping containers partly destroyed, and has even gathered testimony where birds were given no food or water for days.

Recently, he entrusted two genetically valuable birds to the care of a shipper, expecting a safe and timely delivery. Instead, to his utter dismay, these two valuable birds were left without food and water for nine days.

It is only by the grace of God these birds are still alive.

This incident is not isolated; it highlights a broader, systemic issue that demands immediate action. The needless suffering endured by birds due to negligence is a preventable tragedy that should never occur within a system designed to serve and protect.

Avian abuse, neglect, and mistreatment have no place in a civilized society, particularly within the United States.

Shippers who abuse, neglect, or torture animals should face the same level of judgment and punishment as you and me, if we treated our animals and/or birds in the same manner.

Legal accountability not only serves justice but also acts as a deterrent against future misconduct.

Here are three concrete, actionable steps we can take:

1. Introduce Federal Legislation that brings parity in accountability between civilian and federal employees for animal-related offenses.
2. Implement Common Sense Training for shipping employees to prevent instances of Avian Neglect and Mistreatment.
3. Require national and international avian associations, federations, organizations, and transporters to follow the suggested guidelines set forth by the MILITARY PIGEON SERVICE.

These actions should lead to better transport for our birds of peace, and a great benefit for bird lovers everywhere.

Avian Associations, Federations, and Organizations include, but are not limited to;

• AMERICAN RACING PIGEON UNION
• NATIONAL PIGEON ASSOCIATION
• INTL FEDERATION OF AMERICAN HOMING PIGEON FANCIERS

Commercial and Government Transport Companies include, but are not limited to;

• AVIAN EXPORT IMPORT SERVICES
• CAPPELLINI PIGEON IMPORTS
• POSTAL SERVICE ANIMAL TRANSPORT

Please sign this petition to demand action and ensure that the welfare of transported birds is prioritized across all sectors, federal or otherwise. We can make a difference for a better transportation experience for all birds.

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