For too long, agricultural research and education has neglected – if not entirely ignored – the needs of animals. The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) creation of a Roadmap for Agriculture Research, Education and Extension creates an opportunity to change this. Help Farm Sanctuary make the most of this opportunity before it’s too late!

Times are changing, as reflected by the overwhelming support for initiatives banning the intensive confinement of animals in a number of states and the election of a president who has made a commitment to be mindful of the cruelty that is perpetrated on animals. 

The USDA’s research and education agenda needs to get with the times. Until now, animal welfare research funding has come from the factory farming industry itself, resulting in biased and unreliable studies that fail to adequately consider animal interests.  The USDA is in the best position to change this – by reviving and increasing funding for animal welfare education and research that focuses on the interests and needs of the animals themselves rather than their usefulness to humans. That means looking at factors like natural behaviors and stress rather than how rapidly an animal grows and puts on weight for slaughter, and making sure that ethics is a central consideration. 

You Can Help!

Please urge the USDA to ensure that its new roadmap provides the necessary support for animal welfare research and education committed to the needs and interests of animals.

Send a letter now. Remember to personalize your message with your own words and experiences – it will make your voice for farm animals stronger and more effective!

https://secure2.convio.net/fsi/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=265