2008 (January-June) Animals in the News

Workers Suspended for Euthanizing Family’s Dog

Houston Chronicle, June 29, 2008

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5862752.html

Two Denton animal shelter workers have been suspended without pay after mistakenly euthanizing a dog.  Animal control picked up a three-year old black Labrador mix named Amicus, after he escaped from the yard of owners Shawn Snider and Beth Bayless-Snider.  When the Sniders arrived to pick their dog up a week later, they were informed that Amicus had been euthanized that morning.  According to police, a shelter worker did not notice the entry on Amicus’ record, which stated that his owners had arranged to pick him up.  Employee Debbie Lhotka has been suspended for two days for the euthanasia error, while Robert Sprabeary for three days for “poor customer service” in his manner of dealing with the Sniders.

Largest Puppy Mill Rescue in Tennessee History

MSNBC, June 27, 2008

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25418905/

Almost 700 dogs and cats have been rescued from Pine Bluff Kennels following a raid on the puppy mill last week.  The raid, which was conducted by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) with help from other animal rescue organizations, marks the largest puppy mill rescue ever in Tennessee.  The SPCA of Tampa Bay was asked to provide assistance and shelter for some of these animals. According to rescue workers, the animals were suffering from extreme neglect and abuse, with some even discovered dead in their cages.  The director of Pine Bluff Kennels has given custody of the animals to HSUS. 

Spain Gives Legal Rights to Great Apes

News Daily, June 25, 2008

http://www.newsdaily.com/stories/l2565863-spain-apes/

Spain’s parliament has approved resolutions that grant great apes the right to life, freedom and not to be tortured.  This historic decision marks the first time any national legislature has given such rights to non-humans.  In particular, the Spanish parliament’s resolutions push for Spain’s compliance with the Great Ape Project, an organization that strives to grant great apes certain moral and legal rights.  The new law will make it a crime to keep apes for circuses, television commercials or filming, and will also outlaw the use of great apes in experiments.  Keeping great apes in zoos will not be illegal, but it is expected that conditions will need to improve in order to comply with the new law.      

Wales Bans Pet Electric Shock Collars

BBC News, June 25, 2008

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/7473597.stm

The assembly government of Wales has banned the use of electric shock collars for dogs and cats.  The ban was introduced following concerns about the unnecessary suffering of pets.  According to the Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones, forthcoming legislation will make the use of shock collars a criminal offense.  However, it may remain possible for veterinarians and other professionals to use the collars for certain restricted uses.  The ban has been implemented under the Animal Welfare Act.

NY Legislation Increases Fines for Spectators at Animal Fights

Forbes, June 24, 2008

http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/06/24/ap5149319.html

The New York Senate and Assembly have passed legislation that increases the fines for spectators at animal fights.  The legislation allows fines of up to $500 for a first offense, and makes a second offense a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $1000 and up to one year in jail.  In addition, the legislation says that it is a violation to knowingly go anywhere animal fighting occurs.  The bill’s sponsors claim that recent headlines demonstrate that animal fighting remains a problem in New York, with the confiscation of thirteen roosters and sixteen pitbulls in the last two weeks alone.  New York Governor David Patterson has said he will review the proposed law.      

Supreme Court to Decide if Is Navy Doing Enough to Protect Whales

CNN, June 23, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/06/23/scotus/index.html?iref=newssearch

The Supreme Court of the United States has agreed to decide whether the Navy is doing enough to protect whales from the effects of sonar testing.  This agreement comes after a federal appeals court ruled against the Navy, leading to major changes in the Navy’s annual offshore training exercises.  According to Joel Reynolds of the National Resources Defense Council, “It's clear both that high intensity military sonar can injure and kill whales, dolphins, and other marine life and that the Navy can reduce the risk of this harm by commonsense safeguards without compromising our military readiness."  The Navy, however, claims that the restrictions would hurt military preparedness and put sailors and Marines at risk.  Both scientific studies, as well as the Navy’s own conclusions, indicate that high levels of sonar can cause hearing loss and disorientation in marine mammals.  Southern California is home to nine species of endangered or threatened whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions.    

Hallmark Manager Pleads Guilty to Downed Animal Abuse

The Baltimore Sun, June 20, 2008

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/business/consuminginterests/blog/2008/06/manager_pleads_guilty_to_hallm.html

Hallmark Meat Company pen manager Daniel Navarro has pled guilty to two counts of felony animal cruelty and two misdemeanor counts of cruelty to downed animals.  The San Bernardino County District Attorney charged Navarro with animal cruelty following an undercover investigation by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).  According the HSUS investigation, Hallmark principally slaughtered downed dairy cows for Westland Meat Co., a major national supplier of ground beef for the National School Lunch Program. Downed animals are potential carriers of food borne pathogens and bovine spongiform encephalopathy.  In addition, the HSUS documented extreme cruelty and abuse of the downed cows as they headed to slaughter.  Navarro will face sentencing later this summer.

Iowa Flooding Strands Thousands of Animals

Des Moines Register, June 14, 2008

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080614/NEWS/806140330/1001/NEWS

As Iowa’s historic flooding forces people from their homes, it also leaves thousands of animals stranded.  According to the operations manager for the Animal Care and Control Center for the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Cedar Rapids, Iowa is overwhelmed with animals, and the state is in need of rescue help.  This help was dispatched Friday morning, as officials from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) boarded planes for Iowa.  HSUS currently has at least seven staff members operating across Iowa, and has also deployed a 75-foot animal transport semi trailer truck that can house 100 animals, three boats, a mobile command center and a pickup truck.  HSUS rescue teams are operating out of Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids.

Possible Dogfighting Ring Uncovered on Chicago’s South Side

Chicago Tribune, June 13, 2008

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-dogs-seized-web-jun14,0,6673585.story

Officials believe that the 32 pit bull dogs, which were recently seized from a home on Chicago’s south side, have been used for dogfighting.  The dogs displayed “tell-tale signs,” including mangled ears, muscular jaws, sharp toenails, extensive scarring and open wounds.  The dogs appear to have been trained and bred at the home, but there is no evidence that the fights took place there. Police also discovered dog fighting paraphernalia throughout the residence. Larue Jackson has been charged with 21 misdemeanor counts of possession of a pit bull by a felon.  Jackson was taken into custody when the dogs were seized.  Though the dogs have been treated for their injuries, their fate remains undetermined since they must serve as evidence in the upcoming criminal proceedings.

Marine Kicked out of Corps for Throwing Puppy off Cliff

CNN, June 13, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/06/12/marine.puppy/index.html?iref=newssearch

U.S. Marine David Motari has been removed from the Marine Corps after he was videotaped throwing a puppy off a cliff.  This videotape was then released on YouTube, sparking outrage from animal welfare groups around the world.  Fellow Marine Corps member Crismarvin Banez Encarnacion, who was videotaping Motari, has also received non-judicial punishment, although the severity of the discipline could not be disclosed due to privacy regulations.  The statement released by the Marine Corps said that they conducted an investigation as soon as the YouTube video came to the attention of the commanders, and that the actions depicted in the video “will not be tolerated.” 

Chimpanzee Sanctuary Welcomes First Residents

The Seattle Times, June 10, 2008

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004468019_chimps10m.html

Pennsylvania medical laboratory Buckshire Corp. has retired its last seven chimpanzees from testing. The chimpanzees, who range in age from 24 to 34, have been used primarily for hepatitis-B vaccine testing.  These chimpanzees are now headed cross-country to their new home at the Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest. The recently-completed Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest, one of nine such sanctuaries in the U.S., has been built to provide permanent homes to chimps that have been used by the entertainment and biomedical industries. The sanctuary is located on 26 acres approximately 70 miles southeast of Seattle, Washington. 

New Zealand Animal Control Fights Breed-Specific Legislation

Stuff.co.nz, June 10, 2008

http://www.stuff.co.nz/4579262a11.html

A New Zealand parliamentary select committee is in the process of hearing submissions on the recently introduced Dog Control Amendment Bill.  This bill requires the neutering of certain breeds or types of dogs deemed to be “menacing,” and also simplifies the process of adding breeds to dog control legislation.  However, the president of the New Zealand Institute of Animal Control Officers has said that the institute does not support breed-specific legislation for a variety of reasons, but namely because the greatest influence on aggression in dogs is environmental.  The Institute has provided a list of amendments that should be added to the Dog Control Amendment Bill in order to improve it.      

New Tiger Preservation Campaign

CNN, June 9, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBIZ/06/09/tiger.conservation/index.html?iref=newssearch

The World Bank has launched a new conservation initiative aimed at the preservation of tiger populations.  According to Robert Zoellick, head of the World Bank, the preservation campaign will find out “how to work with local communities, so we can preserve some of the areas in which the tigers live.”  The World Bank’s initiative will focus on 13 countries where tiger poaching threatens remaining tiger populations in the wild, working to coordinate efforts between the nations to save tigers at risk.  Illegal wildlife trafficking is worth an estimated $10 billion a year, and the United States has the second largest market in the world for trafficked animals.  Hollywood celebrities, including Bo Derek, Harrison Ford and Robert Duvall, have come out to support the tiger conservation initiative.    

Indiana Increases Efforts to Curb Animal Fighting

Chicago Tribune, June 7, 2008

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-animalfighting,0,2523853.story

The state of Indiana and the Indiana Humane Society have upped efforts to put a stop to animal fighting.  The Indiana Humane Society has doubled its reward to $5000 for tips leading to the arrest and conviction of people involved in animal fighting, and Attorney General Steve Carter has urged the public to report any animal fighting incidents.  According to the director of the Indiana Humane Society, more than 250,000 dogs are used in fights in the United States.  Cockfighting also remains a problem, with authorities confiscating nearly 200 roosters in January in the Fort Wayne, Indiana, area.  Indiana authorities hope that doubling the reward will lead more people to come forward with information about animal fighting.            

Economic Troubles Hit Pet Owners Hard

CNN, June 4, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/06/04/economy.pets.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

Faced with the rising costs of food, fuel and housing, as well as the increase in foreclosures, many pet owners are struggling to provide for their furry companions.  Some pet owners try to save money by foregoing veterinary care, while others frequent local food pantries that offer free pet food, and still others are forced to surrender their animals.  According to the Animal Welfare League in Chicago Ridge, IL, the average number of pet owners getting monthly rations from its pet food pantry has increased by more than 50 percent since last year.  In an effort to combat this problem, Petco Foundation is establishing a program that will give $5000 to shelters to care for and find homes for abandoned animals.  The program will also help owners find pet-friendly housing and provide food for people who want to keep their pets.   

PETA Ends Canadian “Kentucky Fried Cruelty” Campaign

The Canadian Press, June 2, 2008

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080602.RKFC02/TPStory/Business

Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) Canada has signed an agreement promising improved welfare for its chickens in exchange for an end to the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) “Kentucky Fried Cruelty” campaign.  The agreement will require KFC to purchase chickens from suppliers who use gas to kill the chickens painlessly, which is considered to be the most humane method. KFC has also promised to insist on other “animal welfare friendly” measures relating to how the chickens are housed, including a crowding maximum and phasing out non-essential growth-hormones and other drugs. In addition, KFC Canada has agreed to include a vegan “chicken” item on its menu. 

Hawaii Adds Horses to Animal Cruelty Law

The Honolulu Advertiser, June 1, 2008

http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200880601031

Governor Linda Lingle of Hawaii has signed into law a new measure that protects horses from abuse.  Hawaii’s animal cruelty laws previously only provided protection to dogs, cats, domesticated rabbits, domesticated pigs, guinea pigs and caged birds.  The new law makes it a felony to intentionally inflict cruelty on any of these animals, including horses.  According to the executive director of the Kauai Humane Society, horses must be protected because they are companion animals that enjoy close bonds with humans.  Last week Lingle also signed into law a provision which makes it a misdemeanor to possess more than twenty dogs or cats without adequate food or in harmful conditions.

India Bans Use of ‘Wild’ Animals in Films

The Times of India, June 1, 2008

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Blanket_ban_on_use_of_wild_animals_in_films/articleshow/3089424.cms

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has imposed a blanket ban on the use of lions, tigers, panthers and monkeys in films. In addition, filmmakers must also adhere to a list of twenty-six regulations designed to protect animals used in films.  Regulations include prohibiting shooting scenes with animals on hard surfaces, bringing animals near barbed wires, using explosives in scenes with animals, as well as making animals travel for more than eight hours at a time. If filmmakers do not follow these regulations then they will not obtain AWBI pre-shoot permission, thereby becoming ineligible for the needed certificate of registration. The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association is in the midst of an ongoing legal battle with AWBI.        

Maxwell Save-a-Pet Act Becomes Law

Palm Beach Daily News, June 1, 2008

http://www.palmbeachdailynews.com/news/content/news/briefmaxwell0531.html

Florida Governor Charlie Crist has signed the Gertrude Maxwell Save-a-Pet Act into law.  The bill provides for the creation of a nonprofit direct-support organization to help prevent animal cruelty, assist with pet overpopulation, and provide grants to animal shelters.  The funding for the organization will come from businesses, foundations and estates.  The bill’s namesake is Gertrude Maxwell, a lifelong friend of animals and the founder of Save A Pet Florida Inc.

Legal Guardian for Chimp Case Appeal

Fox News, May 29, 2008

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,360223,00.html

Animal rights activist Paula Stibbe and Vienna based Association Against Animal Factories (AAAF) have filed an appeal on a lower court ruling rejecting their request to appoint a chimpanzee with a legal guardian.  The chimpanzee, Matthew Hiasl Pan, is in danger of losing his home if the bankrupt animal sanctuary where he lives closes.  Under Austrian law, only humans can have guardians.  In order to protect Matthew should the sanctuary close, Stibbe filed suit to become Matthew’s legal guardian.  The appeal has been filed in the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France.

$24 Million Settlement in Contaminated Pet Food Cases

CNN, May 23, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/23/pet.food.deal.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

Companies that were sued over contaminated pet food, which caused the deaths of thousands of dogs and cats, have agreed to pay $24 million to affected pet owners in the United States and Canada.  This settlement follows the biggest-ever U.S. pet food recall, in which almost 300 people sued about 30 pet food companies in state and federal courts.  Under the terms of the settlement, pet owners could be reimbursed for all reasonable expenditures, including veterinary bills and burial and cremation costs, as well as the fair market value of the deceased pets.  The pet food companies have said that they will donate any money left in the fund after paying claims to animal welfare charities.

Animal Fighting Magazine to be Pulled from Amazon

Puget Sound Business Journal, May 20, 2008

http://seattle.bizjournals.com/seattle/stories/2008/05/19/daily9.html

Last year the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) sued Amazon.com, claiming that the sale of the cockfighting magazine “The Gamecock” violated misdemeanor provisions of the Animal Welfare Act.  Last week HSUS claimed partial victory in the suit, after the publisher of “The Gamecock” agreed to eliminate all advertisements for fighting animals, knives and “illegal paraphernalia.”  In addition, the magazine will not be sold on Amazon.com for one year.  According to the HSUS, Amazon officials have “vowed to fight on in the case,” and are in the process of reviewing “The Gamecock” settlement agreement with HSUS.      

Ban on ‘Downer’ Cattle Proposed

Chicago Tribune, May 21, 2008

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-downer-cows-21may21,0,4031364.story

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has called for a ban on all ‘downer’ cattle, or cattle that are unable to stand or walk on their own, from the food supply.  Although government regulations already prohibit slaughtering ‘downer’ cattle, an exception exists which allows a government veterinarian to approve a downed animal for slaughter if the animal is not sick, but rather is suffering from an acute injury like a broken leg.  The proposed ban would eliminate this exception, making it illegal to slaughter any cow that is unable to stand.  The proposal follows the largest beef recall in U.S. history, after secretly recorded video footage showed inhumane treatment of immobile cattle at the Westland/Hallmark Meat Packing Co. plant in Chino, California earlier this year.     

Donkey Jailed for Assault and Battery

CNN, May 20, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/americas/05/20/mexico.donkey.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

A donkey has been sent to the local jail in Chiapas, Mexico after biting and kicking two men.  Police officer Sinar Gomez has said that the donkey will remain in jail until the owner agrees to pay the injured men’s medical bills, which are estimated at $420.  Chiapas police have sent animals to jail before, including a bull that devoured crops and destroyed two vending stands, and a dog that bit someone. 

Human Impact Causes Sharp Decline in Wildlife

CNN, May 16, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/05/16/wildlife.shortage/index.html?iref=newssearch

According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the world’s wildlife has declined by 27 percent since 1970 due to human impact on the environment.  In particular, the WWF’s report entitled, “2010 and Beyond: Rising to the Biodiversity Challenge,” shows that terrestrial, marine and freshwater species all experienced population declines, with the biggest decrease for freshwater species.  During the 35-year period from 1970 to 2005, terrestrial species fell by an average of 25 percent and marine species fell by 28 percent, while from 1970 to 2003 freshwater species fell by 29 percent.  Though the causes of the declines are varied, they all stem from human demands on the biosphere, including consumption of natural resources, displacement of ecosystems, overexploitation, invasive species, pollution and climate change.         

Tiger Victim’s Family Files Claim against San Francisco

CNN, May 16, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/16/tiger.attack.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

The parents of Carlos Sousa Jr., the teenager who was attacked and killed by an escaped tiger from the San Francisco Zoo, have filed a claim against the City of San Francisco.  Sousa’s parents allege that the city did not properly house the tiger, since the tiger’s enclosure did not meet the required height standards set by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  Sousa’s parents seek financial compensation as well as an order requiring the city to make sure that all the enclosures at the San Francisco Zoo meet the zoo association standards.  The city has 45 days to respond to the wrongful death and negligence claim. 

Chicago Repeals Foie Gras Ban

Chicago Sun-Times, May 15, 2008

http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/949483,foieupdate051408.article

In a City Council meeting last week, the foie gras ban that Mayor Daley claims made Chicago a laughingstock was repealed by a vote of 37-6.  The repeal ordinance, which was introduced last year, went straight to the Council floor without a hearing - something that is almost never done.  According to Alderman Joe Moore, when Moore attempted to exercise his right to postpone the order, Daley ruled he was “out of order,” and when he tried to debate the ordinance on the merits, the mayor ruled that the measure was not debatable.  Mayor Daley has been quoted as saying that “everybody knew” about the repeal ordinance, and that it was about time the city reversed the foie gras ban because it damaged Chicago’s reputation in international dining circles.  Foie gras is produced by force-feeding geese and ducks until their livers are ten times their normal size and the birds can barely walk or breathe.      

Personality Testing to Match Pets with People

CNN, May 15, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/05/15/cat.personality.test.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ (ASPCA) behaviorist Dr. Emily Weiss has developed a new program that matches people with pets based on personality.  The Meet Your Match program, which includes Feline-ality and Canine-ality tests for cats and dogs respectively, assesses a variety of behaviors in the individual animal and then places the animal into one of nine personality categories.  These personality categories are then matched to a person’s personality, family situation and desires.  The potential adopters also fill out a questionnaire, the results of which tell them the set of animal personality types that would be their best match.  The program’s goal is to end “animal-human mismatches,” a frequent reason for returning animals to shelters. 

Polar Bears Listed As Threatened in U.S.

National Geographic News, May 14, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/05/080514-polar-bears.html

Following weeks of delay, the U.S. government has listed the polar bear as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  Today there are an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 polar bears in the Arctic; however scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey predict that two-thirds of the world’s polar bears will disappear in the next 50 years.  This disappearance is attributed largely to the decline in arctic sea ice due to global warming.  Officials have emphasized that the decision to list the polar bear as threatened will not be used to determine U.S. climate policy.  The listing will, however, give the polar bear much-needed protection, including a ban on the import of polar bear products from Canada.   

Rapper DMX Arrested on Animal Cruelty and Drug Charges

CNN, May 9, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBIZ/Music/05/09/dmx.dogs/index.html?iref=newssearch

Rapper DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, faces seven misdemeanor animal cruelty charges and four felony drug possession charges.  According to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, animal control removed five pit bull mix puppies from DMX’s home.  In addition, last August deputies raided DMX’s home and seized 12 pit bulls after receiving reports that the dogs were being abused.  Though there was no evidence of dog fighting, some of the dogs had not been fed or watered.  The carcasses of three dogs, one of which may have been burned, were also found buried on DMX’s property.  DMX, who faced a 1999 animal cruelty charge in New Jersey, sometimes features the dogs in his music videos.  Deputies also discovered weapons and drugs on the property, leading to the felony drug possession charges.

Vermont Supreme Court Hears Case on Special Value of Pets

AVMA News, May 15, 2008 (posted May 12)

http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/may08/080515h.asp

The Supreme Court of Vermont will hear a case regarding whether a pet owner has the right to compensation for emotional pain and loss of companionship when a pet dies due to negligence.  In the case facing the Court, the plaintiffs’ cats’ veterinarian prescribed a drug to treat the cats’ hypertension.  However the concentration of the drug dispensed was much higher than the labeled dosage, and as a result, the cats became ill and died.  Since animals are considered property, suits seeking noneconomic damages for the wrongful death or injury of a pet are generally dismissed.  But with increased claims for noneconomic damages for the loss of a pet hitting the courts, and animal lawyers asking courts to recognize the human-animal bond by awarding enhanced damages, the Vermont Supreme Court’s decision has the potential to reshape animal law in the United States.

Driver Kills Dog Then Sues Owner for Damages

ABA Journal News, May 9, 2008

http://www.abajournal.com/news/driver_kills_dog_sues_owners_for_damages/

Minnesota driver Jeffrey Ely struck and killed a dog and is now suing the owner for damages.  Ely is seeking $1100 compensation for damage to his car and time off work for repairs.  The dog, a miniature pinscher named Fester, ran past his owner Nikki Munthe as she was letting another dog into the house.  Munthe has filed a $2400 countersuit against Ely, seeking compensation for the loss of Fester, the cost of a new dog, and the time she had to take off work to make court appearances. 

Couple Guilty of Animal Cruelty on the Run with 100 Dogs

The Times, May 8, 2008

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,23659433-2,00.html

Australian couple Joseph and Margarete Higham went missing after being convicted of eleven counts of cruelty to animals. The court convicted the couple of charges relating to 200 dogs, 120 of whom were seized over the last two years by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA).  According to the RSPCA, the dogs were suffering from malnourishment, mange, eye ulcers, open sores, fleas and worms.  The couple was previously convicted of 123 cruelty offenses in New South Wales.  A spokesperson for the RSPCA has urged people to contact police if they see anything resembling the Higham’s vehicle.   

Georgia Increases Penalties for Dogfighting

WSAV, May 6, 2008

http://www.wsav.com/midatlantic/sav/news.apx.-content-articles-SAV-2008-05-06-0015.html

Georgia governor Sonny Perdue has signed a bill that will strengthen Georgia’s dogfighting laws.  The anti-dogfighting measure makes it a felony to “own, possess, train, transport or sell any dog for the intention of dogfighting.”  In addition, the bill increases penalties for dogfighting, giving first-time offenders between one to five years in prison, a minimum fine of $5000, or both.  With the passage of this bill, Georgia, which used to have the worst dogfighting laws in the United States, now ranks among the states with the strongest. 

Bald Eagle to Get Artificial Beak

Discovery News, May 5, 2008

http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2008/05/05/eagle-beak-beauty.html

A bald eagle with part of her beak shot off was discovered starving to death in Alaska in 2005.  With most of her upper curved beak missing, the bald eagle, now named Beauty, is unable to clutch or tear at food, drink or preen her feathers.  However, a team of volunteers has been working to create an artificial beak, and they plan to attach it to Beauty next month.  Although the successful implantation of an artificial beak is rare, and whether or not it will be functional remains a question, the team is optimistic.  Beauty has the potential to breed or be a foster mother for orphaned babies, and she will also be used as an educational tool to teach people to respect raptors.  Though bald eagles are no longer on the endangered species list, shooting one is a violation of federal law. 

U.S. World’s Second Largest Ivory Market

National Geographic News, May 5, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/05/080505-us-ivory.html

According to a new study published by British conservation group, Care for the Wild International (CWI), the United States has one of the world’s largest retail markets for elephant ivory products, second only to China.  The study, which was funded by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), Save the Elephants, and the John Aspinall Foundation, is based on the investigation of thousands of retail outlets in 16 American cities between March and December 2006 and March and May 2007.  The report also pointed out the loopholes in U.S. laws prohibiting ivory trading, including the U.S.’s failure to comply with CITES regulations as well as national laws.  The internet provides a largely unregulated supply of ivory, allowing ivory crafters in the U.S. to purchase ivory from all over the world. 

Gunman Shoots Trapped Sea Lions

CNN, May 5, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/05/sea.lions.salmon.ap/index.html

An unknown gunman shot and killed six sea lions who were stuck in humane traps below the Bonneville Dam on the Columbia River on the border of Oregon and Washington.  The federally protected sea lions feed on the salmon that swim down the Columbia River, and with the worst salmon season in history expected, state and federal agents have been trapping the sea lions to protect the salmon.  According to Brian Gorman, spokesman for the National Marine Fisheries Service, the six sea lions appear to have been shot by someone on the Washington side of the border during the night.  The two traps each contained the bodies of two California sea lions and one Steller sea lion.  Further trapping will be suspended while an investigation is carried out.   

PETA Seeks Suspension of Eight Belles Jockey

Sports Illustrated, May 4, 2008

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/more/05/04/bc.rac.peta.eightbelles.ap/index.html

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has requested that Eight Belles’ jockey, Gabriel Saez, be suspended while the filly’s death is investigated.  Eight Belles had to be euthanized when she broke both front ankles immediately after finishing second place in the Kentucky Derby.  Eight Belles, the first filly since 1999 to run in the Kentucky Derby, was euthanized on the track.  In a letter faxed to the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority, PETA claims that Eight Belles “was doubtlessly injured before the finish,” and would like to find out if “he [Saez] felt anything along the way.”  The letter also seeks a ban on whipping, limits on races and the age of racehorses, and a transition to softer, artificial surfaces for all racecourses.         

U.S. Government Blocked Plan to Protect Whales

Washington Post, May 1, 2008

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/30/AR2008043003189.html

The Union of Concerned Scientists has obtained documents that detail the ongoing struggle between the White House and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) concerning the protection of endangered North Atlantic right whales.  According to the documents, which were sent by an unidentified NOAA official, for more than a year White House officials have blocked a rule designed to protect right whales by challenging the findings of government scientists.  The documents show that the White House Council of Economic Advisors and Vice President Cheney’s office repeatedly questioned whether the rule, which slowed ship speeds during parts of the year to protect right whales, was necessary.  Since NOAA proposed the rule, at least three right whales have been hit by ships and died, and two have been injured by propellers.  With a surviving population of fewer than 400, North Atlantic right whales are one of the most endangered species on Earth. 

California “Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act” to Appear on November Ballot

JAVMA News, May 1, 2008

http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/may08/080501j.asp

The California Secretary of State has determined that a ballot initiative requiring that egg-laying hens, veal calves, and pregnant sows be provided with enough room to fully extend their limbs, lie down, stand and turn around has obtained enough support to qualify for the November ballot.  A total of 433,971 valid signatures were required to qualify for the ballot, and by February the initiative had obtained signatures from 790,486 Californians. If the initiative is passed, the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act would take effect in 2015.  Violators could be charged with a misdemeanor, and face fines of up to one thousand dollars, imprisonment, or both.  

U.S. Court Orders Polar Bear Listing Decision

National Geographic News, April 29, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/04/080429-AP-polar-bears.html

U.S. district judge Claudia Wilken has ordered the Interior Department to decide by May 15 whether polar bears should be listed as a threatened species due to global warming.  According to Wilken, the Interior Department, which was supposed to have reached a decision by January 9, 2008, offered no facts that could justify the delay.  Wilken’s ruling is a victory for conservation groups, who claim that the Bush administration has delayed making a polar bear decision to avoid dealing with global warming and the transfer of offshore petroleum leases. A U.S. Geological Survey study has predicted polar bears in Alaska could be wiped out by 2050.

Great White Shark Kills Swimmer in San Diego County

National Geographic News, April 25, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/04/080425-AP-shark-attac.html

Dave Martin, a 66-year-old retired veterinarian, was attacked and killed by a great white shark at San Diego County’s Tide Beach.  Martin was training in the ocean with a group of triathletes when a shark, most likely a great white between 12 feet and 17 feet long, bit him and then swam away.  Two swimmers dragged Martin back to shore, but with injuries crossing both thighs, Martin probably bled to death before reaching land.  Shark attacks are considered very rare, with the last fatal shark attack occurring along San Diego County in April 1994.      

Korea Clones Drug-Sniffing Dogs

National Geographic News, April 24, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/04/080424-AP-clones.html

A team of scientists at Seoul National University have cloned seven golden Labrador retrievers from a skilled drug-sniffing dog currently in active service.  Researchers are administering a series of tests to the dogs to determine if they share the same high-level sniffing ability as the dog from which they were cloned.  So far all seven dogs passed a behavior test that checks if they are qualified to work as sniffing dogs; only 10 to 15 percent of naturally born dogs pass this test.  Although the cost of cloning was high (approximately $100,000 to $150,000 per cloned dog), it usually costs about $40,140 to train a naturally born dog, and then only three out of every ten trained dogs ends up qualifying for the job.  Officials hope that the cloned dogs will reduce the expense and difficulty of finding and training dogs to detect drugs and explosives.    

Caged Monkey Rescued After Ten Years

Ham & High 24, April 23, 2008

http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/content/camden/hamhigh/news/story.aspx?brand=NorthLondon24&category=Newshamhigh&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=newshamhigh&itemid=WeED23%20Apr%202008%2011%3A37%3A30%3A293

Joey, a black-capped capuchin monkey, has been rescued after being locked in a tiny cage for ten years.  Sadly, ten years of abuse have left Joey with a paralyzed face, brittle bones, and severe mental problems.  In England it is not illegal for people to keep monkeys, however estimates suggest that about 80 percent of monkey owners do not have the proper wild animal license.  The Monkey Sanctuary Trust reports that while Joey is making good progress, he will never fully recovery.  The sanctuary is currently lobbying to make keeping monkeys as pets illegal.  

Grizzly Bear Kills Trainer in California

Fox News, April 23, 2008

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,352211,00.html

A grizzly bear that appeared in a recent Will Ferrell movie killed a trainer with a bite to the neck.  Three experienced handlers were working with the bear, Rocky, when he bit 39-year-old Stephan Miller.  The handlers used pepper spray to subdue Rocky, and there were no other injuries.  Rocky is one of the many wild animals, which include lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, wolves and bears, housed at Randy Miller’s Predators in Action facility.  Predators in Action trains wild animals for use in television, film, advertising and education.  The Department of Fish and Game will determine Rocky’s fate after an investigation.        

PETA Offers $1 Million to Scientist Who Grows Laboratory Chicken

CNN, April 23, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/americas/04/23/peta.chicken/index.html?iref=newssearch

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is offering $1 million to the first scientist to create lab-grown meat that is both commercially viable and has the “taste and texture indistinguishable from real chicken flesh” by summer 2012.  Research has already begun to produce “in vitro meat”, or meat that is produced from animal stem cells and placed in a medium to grow and reproduce.  However, in vitro meat is not expected to be made available to the general public for several years.  PETA supports in vitro meat because it would spare the more than 40 billion chickens, cows, pigs and fish killed for food in the United States every year from horrific suffering.       

Pure-bred Captive Tigers Crucial for Conservation Plans

BBC News, April 20, 2008

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7353407.stm

A recent study suggests that many captive tigers have a pure-bred ancestry, thereby making them key to the survival of wild tiger populations.  After studying 105 captive tigers, researchers found that 49 of the tigers belonged to one of the pure-bred subspecies and another fraction displayed a genetic diversity that is no longer found in the wild tiger populations.  According to the research team, it may be possible to integrate these tigers into “in-situ and ex-situ management plans,” which could increase wild tiger population sizes and help maintain genetic variability.  Today there remain only 3,000 tigers in the wild, while the captive population numbers from 15,000 to 20,000.

Romanian Man Accused of Keeping Lion in Garden

MSNBC, April 17, 2008

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24154640/

A 28-year-old Romanian man has been caught raising a lion in his back garden.  Neighbors alerted police to the situation after hearing roaring coming from the man’s property.  Upon investigation, police discovered a caged three-year-old lioness, two deer, one stag, and two peacocks roaming in the garden.  The man is being charged with illegal possession of wild animals, and could face up to one year in jail and a fine of $4430.  The lioness will be taken to the zoo, but police will let the man keep the peacocks and his dogs. 

German Police Investigate Animal Beheadings

CNN, April 17, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/04/17/germany.animals.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

German police are trying to determine who decapitated several animals and drained them of their blood.  In the past year the headless corpses of 21 rabbits, three chickens and four wild birds have been found in the West German city of Bochum.  Police have formed a special commission to investigate the gruesome killings, and are urging anyone with information to come forward.  Police said that the suspect may have been smeared with blood because he would drain the animals’ blood and then remove their heads.  So far they have no clues as to the suspect’s identity.   

Cops Kill Chicago Cougar

Chicago Sun-Times, April 15, 2008

http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/894573,CST-NWS-cougar15.article

Chicago police shot and killed a cougar found wandering around the North Side’s Roscoe Village Monday evening.  Area residents reported hearing between 8 to 10 gunshots coming from an alley at about 6pm.  The cougar, which weighed about 150 pounds, appeared to be healthy and well-fed.  Authorities are uncertain if this is the same cougar that has been spotted in North Chicago over the last few weeks. 

Russia Tests Monkeys for Trip to Mars

BBC News, April 14, 2008

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7341211.stm

The Sochi Institute of Medical Primatology is preparing macaques for a trip to Mars.  Sochi plans to send monkeys to Mars in order to see how they handle the radiation, which poses such a threat to astronauts on a flight to the planet.  The scientists also want to see how the macaques react to isolation, prolonged weightlessness, and a diet of pureed food and juices.  Russia is one of the few countries that still allow experimentation on primates.  The Sochi Institute has received objections from its European colleagues as well as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to Russia’s continued experimentation on animals.  Russia has a history of sending monkeys into space, having sent twelve macaques on previous missions.   

Japan Blames Protestors for Decreased Whale Hunt

National Geographic News, April 14, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/04/080414-AP-japan-whali.html

The Japanese government has said that conflict with anti-whaling activists combined with fewer whale sightings has forced Japan’s whaling fleet to return with only 55 percent of its hunting target.  Anti-whaling protestors have been very active during this season’s hunt, blocking the paths of whaling ships and pelting boats with containers of rancid butter.  Although commercial whaling was banned in 1986, Japanese whalers hunt under an internationally permitted research exemption to the ban.  While the hunt is supposed to be for research purposes, it provides supermarkets and upscale restaurants with the leftover whale meat.  As a result, critics claim that the hunt is simply commercial whaling in disguise and demand that it be stopped.  New Zealand’s representative to the International Whaling Commission (IWC), Sir Geoffrey Palmer, has alluded to the possibility that Japan may give up whaling in the Southern hemisphere in exchange for limited hunts near small coastal communities where whale meat is regularly consumed. 

Japanese Designer Creates “Eco-Fur”

CNN, April 14, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/04/14/eco.fur.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

Japanese designer Chie Imai has created a new fashion line that she dubbed ‘ecological fur’.  These supposed ecological designs combine recycled polyester fabric with real fur.  According to Imai, this new ‘ecological fur’ allows her celebrity clients to “feel green… [because] they want to take part in being ecological, but it’s hard for them to find a way to do it.”  Animal activists disagree, claiming that term “ecological” is being used to distract people from the rampant animal abuse in the fur industry.  As directors from both the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) agree, “the idea of ‘ecological fur’ is absurd…Fur can’t be environmentally friendly because you can’t be concerned about the environment without caring about our fellow inhabitants: the animals.”  Imai’s ‘ecological fur’ sells from approximately 1.2 million yen (US$12,000) to 8.4 million yen (US$83,000).  

Salmon Fishing Banned off California and Oregon Coasts

National Geographic News, April 11, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/04/080411-AP-disappearin.html

West Coast fisheries managers have voted to cancel all commercial fishing of salmon off of the California and Oregon coasts this year.  Scientists and government officials are expecting this salmon season to be poor due to the collapse of the Sacramento River chinook, one of the biggest wild salmon runs on the West Coast.  In fact, the anticipated situation appears so dire that the governors of Washington, Oregon and California have signed letters asking Congress to issue a disaster declaration to protect fishers and alleviate other negative effects.  According to the executive director of the Pacific Fishery Management Council, Don McIssac, “for the entire West Coast, this is the worst [salmon fishing season] in history.”  Fishers have voiced little opposition to the cancellation of commercial salmon fishing. 

Injured Zebra Found on Georgia Highway

First Coast News, April 11, 2008

http://www.firstcoastnews.com/news/georgia/news-article.aspx?storyid=106889

An injured baby zebra was discovered eating grass along an I-75 exit south of Atlanta, Georgia.  Rescuers from an animal rescue center called Noah’s Ark picked the zebra up and a veterinarian treated him for extensive injuries.  The two to three month old male has been named Evidence, and is currently doing well after surgery.  Rescuers believe that Evidence fell from a truck and was then hit by another vehicle.  Noah’s Ark is asking for donations to help cover the $5000 cost of care for Evidence.         

More Animals Abandoned Due to Foreclosure

MSNBC, April 9, 2008

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24023831/

Shelters across the country continue to see an increase in the number of animals abandoned as a result of the ongoing housing crisis.  The Montgomery County Humane Society reports a 3% increase from last year in the number of animals given up due to foreclosures or economic dislocation.  In an effort to help pet owners, the Montgomery shelter has expanded its “Safe Harbor” project, a program that provides short-term boarding and care to pets whose families have to leave their homes on short notice, to the families affected by the mortgage crisis.  However, these pets are the lucky ones.  An increasing number of pets are simply being left behind or set loose when their families are forced to move.  These pets’ chances of survival are slim, and the Montgomery animal control shelter reports at least three pending cases of animal cruelty against owners who abandoned pets in foreclosed homes.     

Russian Captain Fined for Illegal Crab Fishing

Itar-Tass, April 9, 2008

http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=12562663&PageNum=0

The city court of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky has found the captain of the Kapitan Barinov ship guilty of illegally catching large quantities of rare king crabs.  The captain was convicted of illegally catching over one ton of king crab from June to October 2007.  Border guards discovered the illegal crab catch stashed “in the refrigerator compartment of the starboard,” with neither the crab catches nor the processing registered in the ship’s documents.  The captain has been fined 100,000 rubles and forbidden to occupy the captain of fishing vessels post for a term of nine months.  In addition, the company that owns the vessel has been fined 609,500 rubles.        

Man Accused of Assault with a Hedgehog

CNN, April 7, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/04/07/newzealand.hedgehog.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

A New Zealand man, William Singalargh, has been accused of assault with a weapon—a hedgehog—after he picked up the animal and threw it at a boy.  The hedgehog left a welt and puncture wounds on the boy’s leg.  Singalargh will plead “not guilty” to the charge, but if convicted could face up to five years in prison.  Singalargh may also face animal cruelty charges because though the hedgehog was dead when collected as evidence, whether the animal was alive at the time of the attack remains unclear. 

Global Warming Hastens Recovery Efforts for Salmon and Steelhead

Science Daily, April 6, 2008

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/04/080402213640.htm

A recently published scientific report entitled “A Great Wave Rising,” provides strategic global warming solutions that are necessary for the recovery of endangered Columbia and Snake River salmon and steelhead.  The report, which is written by former Oregon chief of fisheries Jim Martin and National Wildlife Federation global warming expert Patty Glick, calls for the immediate implementation of the recommended solutions into federal recovery efforts.  The report demonstrates through a series of findings that the issue of global warming must be addressed without delay in order to save the salmon and steelhead populations.  These findings are being released a month prior to the expected May 5th unveiling of a court-ordered federal agency plan to recover endangered Columbia basin salmon and steelhead.    

Texas Woman Charged with Hanging Pet Dog

11 News, April 5, 2008

http://www.khou.com/news/local/stories/khou080404_tj_doghanged.30f3b478.html

Texas City resident Tiffany Hegwood has been charged with one count of animal cruelty after police discovered she had hanged her pit bull dog from a tree, suffocating the dog to death.  According to police, the dog jumped on a two-year-old girl a few days prior to the incident, after which she was admitted to the hospital for a dog bite.  Animal control officers then told Hegwood to bring her dog to the vet for quarantine.  Hegwood failed to show up, and lied to police saying that she and a friend had shot the dog and then buried it.  Hegwood finally admitted to hanging her dog, and was subsequently charged with animal cruelty.   

Order of Protection Given to Duck

CNN, April 4, 2008

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/04/04/duck.attack.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

A Suffolk County, NY judge has issued an order of protection for a duck, ordering the man accused of shooting a family’s pet duck to stay away from the bird and her owners.  According to the duck’s owner, Janet Lippincott, a group of young people climbed over her backyard fence and attacked her yellow-billed Pekin duck, Circles, with pellet guns.  A bullet pierced Circles’ voice box, but she has since recovered.  The suspect pleaded not guilty to felony animal cruelty charges.  Chief of the Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says this is the first court case involving cruelty to a duck that he remembers.      

Global Warming Threatens King Penguins

Science Daily, April 2, 2008

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/03/080330215330.htm

According to a new report, the warming of the sea surface by as little as seven tenths of a degree can pose a serious threat to King penguins. To reach this conclusion, researchers tracked more than 450 King penguins in their natural environment within the Crozet Archipelago over the course of nine years. Based on observations, researchers concluded that a direct correlation exists between the warming of the ocean surface and a drop in breeding success of king penguins, and the warming of ocean surface temperatures and a drop in the penguins’ probability of survival. With the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) predicting an average temperature increase of approximately 0.2°C per decade for the next two decades, the warming of the Southern oceans will be a serious threat to King penguin populations.    

California Proposes Bill to Impose Tougher Penalties on Slaughterhouses

The Mercury News, April 2, 2008

http://www.mercurynews.com/news/ci_8779856

The California legislature has introduced a bill that would impose criminal penalties on slaughterhouses that process meat from downed animals.  The legislation was introduced in response to a Southern California slaughterhouse which illegally processed sick cattle and prompted the country’s largest beef recall.  The legislation would impose up to $20,000 in fines and up to a year in jail. 

Local Merchants Caught Slaughtering Brazilian Alligators

Reuters, April 1, 2008

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/N01290617.htm

Skinned and salted corpses from about 740 alligators have been discovered on the premises of four local merchants in the Piagacu-Purus reserve in Brazil’s Amazon jungle.  According to the Amazonas state environmental protection agency, the dried corpses totaled about 8 tons.  The agency director, Aldenira Queiroz, has said that the meat, which was intended to be sold for human consumption in neighboring Para state, will now probably be incinerated. Queiroz expressed shock at the discovery, stating that it indicates a large-scale commercial operation.    

Cougar Roams Suburban North Chicago

ABC News, March 31, 2008

http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=6053023

A search continues for a cougar that has been spotted roaming suburban North Chicago since last Friday.  Though there have been at least six sightings of the animal, the cougar remains on the loose.  Police believe the cougar is still in the area and so have put extra patrols and undercover officers on the case to protect residents.  North Chicago Police describe the cougar “perpetrator” as tan, four feet tall, seven feet long, and between 250 to 275 pounds with a brown coat and gray whiskers.  Although no one knows for sure where the cougar came from, theories abound, with some claiming that the cougar is a zoo or circus escapee, and others that he must have come from Wisconsin.

Willie Nelson Fights for Rights of Dairy Cows

Bay City News Service, March 27, 2008       

http://www.insidebayarea.com/news/ci_8715290?source=rss

Country music superstar Willie Nelson has signed on to the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s (ALDF) “Free Baby Mendes” campaign, which urges Challenge Dairy in Dublin, California and Land O’Lakes Dairy in Minnesota to stop using products that come from confined calves.  According to ALDF spokeswoman Liza Franzetta, the dairies send their calves to Mendes Calf Ranch, where “the calves are taken away from their mothers at a very early age to live in cramped, filthy crates they can’t even lie down or turn around in.”  The “Free Baby Mendes” petition has been signed by about 22,000 citizens.  Willie Nelson wrote letters to both Challenge Dairy and Land O’Lakes Dairy, in which he stated that “as a cowboy, I must stand up for cows,” and insisted that the suppliers “end this cruel confinement immediately.”  

New Jersey Bans Horseshoe Crab Harvest

Courier Post Online, March 26, 2008

http://www.courierpostonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080326/NEWS01/803260376

Governor John S. Corzine of New Jersey has signed legislation banning the harvest of horseshoe crabs.  It is hoped that this legislation will increase the numbers of Atlantic red knot shorebirds, which have shown a 75% decline, by making it easier for the birds to feed on horseshoe crab eggs.  While bird advocates remain unsure as to whether the moratorium will successfully help red knots, the legislation signals that New Jersey is serious about ensuring the recovery of the migratory red knot population.

Congo Wildlife Park Official Arrested for Gorilla Slaughter

National Geographic News, March 25, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/03/080325-gorillas-arrest.html

Congolese authorities have arrested former Virunga National Park chief, Honore Mashagiro, in connection to the recent execution-style killings of ten mountain gorillas in the park.  Virunga is home to about half of the world’s 700 remaining mountain gorillas, which are listed as critically endangered by the World Conservation Union. Virunga National Park faces threats not only from rebel groups who hide in the forests, but also from traders who want to destroy the park’s forest to make cooking charcoal. Officials with the Congolese Nature Conservation Institute suspect that Mashagiro was involved in the charcoal trade, which is worth more than $20 million per year. Conservationists believe that the gorilla killings were intended as a message for rangers, who have begun to effectively protect the gorillas and crack down on the charcoal trade. 

U.S. Abusing Endangered Species Listing Process?

National Geographic News, March 25, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/03/080325-species-list.html

Critics have charged the U.S. government with improperly delisting endangered animals through the use of an obscure provision of the Endangered Species Act. This provision classifies groups within a species as distinct population segments (DPS) so that officials can make decisions on whether the groups gain threatened or endangered status. The DPS rule is meant to preserve genetically diverse, isolated populations; however conservationists and environmentalists say that federal agencies are increasingly using DPSs to add fewer animals to the endangered list while taking more off of it. While federal officials strongly disagree, claiming to only use the provision to protect a greater portion of species at risk, critics assert that the provision is being misused to reduce the extent of conservation efforts. 

Growth of Animal Law Helps Pets

The Chicago Tribune, March 25, 2008

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-032508-animal-law-webmar26,1,7859909.story?page=1

The growth of the field of animal law reflects the shifting role of animals in people’s lives.  No longer considered mere property but rather members of the family, animals are being granted legal standing as they are named partial beneficiaries of estates, subjects of lawsuits and victims of abuse.  Today more than 196 law schools in the United States offer courses on animal law, as opposed to the nine that offered classes in 2000.  According to Duke Law professor William Reppy Jr., increased training in animal law has outpaced job creation in the field.  As a result, many students take positions in conventional law firms, offering their expertise for animal issues that arise, and others work pro bono for local humane societies and shelters.  While people have already begun setting up trusts for their pets and fighting over pets in custody battles, today abuse and cruelty cases remain the most common in animal law.  However, animal law will diversify, according to Reppy, as courts face the question of what to do when pets and their owners come into contact with the law.  

Fishing Nets Threaten Endangered New Zealand Dolphins

National Geographic News, March 19, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/03/080319-AP-new-zealand.html

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has called upon the New Zealand government to ban two types of fishing nets from the habitats of two species of critically endangered dolphins, Maui’s dolphins and the Hector’s dolphin.  This request follows the recent deaths of twenty-two dolphins caught in trawler nets.  According to WWF, the two endangered species need protection from set nets and trawler nets if they are to survive.  Official estimates are that there are only 111 Maui’s dolphins alive in the wild, and that the population of the Hector’s dolphin has declined drastically, from around 29,000 in the 1970s to just 7,000 today. 

Federal Court Finds Coast Guard Erred in Shark-Fin Seizure

Sign On San Diego, March 17, 2008

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/state/20080317-1840-bn17sharks.html

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco ruled that a Hong Kong shipping company should not have been forced to give up the proceeds from the 32 tons of shark fins that the U.S. Coast Guard seized from the vessel King Diamond II in August 2002.  This decision undercuts what was considered to be the biggest case against shark finning, a practice in which live sharks are caught, their fins are cut off, and then are dumped back into the ocean where they sink and die.  While U.S. law bans shark finning, the appellate court ruled that the seizure was wrong because the King Diamond II was not a “fishing vessel” as defined by federal law.  This decision would require the U.S. government to return $618,956, which is the market value of the seized shark fins, to the Hong Kong shipping company.         

Man Jailed for Allegedly Forcing Daughter to Kill Pet Cat

Fox News, March 13, 2008

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,337756,00.html

Daniel J. Collins was jailed on charges that he forced his seven-year-old daughter to kill the eight-month-old family pet cat, Boots. According to an affidavit filed in the case, Collins told his children that he wanted them to “learn how to kill” and gave his eleven-year-old son a knife to use to kill the cat.  The boy tried to save the cat by hiding it under the couch and putting ketchup on the knife.  But when Collins realized the cat was not dead, he forced his daughter to hold the knife and then held her hand tightly as he repeatedly stabbed the cat.  Police said Collins stabbed and strangled the cat, and then told his son to throw the dead body in the trash.  Collins is being held on $40,000 bond and is being charged with one count each of animal cruelty and battery and two counts of neglect of a dependent.    

French Hunter on Trial for Killing Rare Bear

Reuters, March 12, 2008

http://www.reuters.com/article/environmentNews/idUSL1289280920080312

Environmental groups have charged French hunter Rene Marqueze with the unlawful killing of what is believed to be the last female native Pyrenees bear in existence.  Speaking at the opening of the hearing, Marqueze claimed to have acted in self-defense after unexpectedly coming across the bear and her cub in the mountains in 2004.  However, Francois Ruffie, a lawyer for two environmental groups, said that Marqueze knew protected bears lived in the area and should have been more careful.  Former French president Jacques Chirac has called the bear’s death “a great loss for biodiversity.”  If guilty, Marqueze could face up to nine months in prison and a €9,000 fine.

Dolphin Guides Stranded Whales Back to Sea

National Geographic News, March 12, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/03/080312-AP-dolph-whal.html

Moko, a bottlenose dolphin, is frequently seen swimming playfully with humans off the coast of New Zealand.  However, last week witnesses saw Moko swim up to two stranded whales and guide them back to safety.  Before Moko arrived, rescue workers had been working for more than an hour to get two pygmy sperm whales back out to sea.  The whales, which had been stranded for two days, kept restranding themselves on a sandbar.  The situation appeared dire, and it was looking as though the whales would have to be euthanized to prevent a prolonged death.  It was at this point that Moko swam up between the whales and the people, and proceeded to lead the whales along the beach, through a channel out to the open sea.  Moko’s actions are not surprising, given dolphins’ well-known capacity for altruistic activities.  However, this was the first time marine mammal expert Anton van Helden had heard of “an inter-species refloating technique.”  

Monkey Stolen from Argentine Zoo

National Geographic News, March 12, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/03/080312-AP-argentina-m.html

On Sunday thieves stole a three-month-old titi monkey from the La Plata Zoo in Buenos Aires, Argentina, despite the presence of 4,000 visitors at the time.  According to zoo officials, two young men in soccer jerseys broke the padlock on a pen containing four raccoon-like animals to distract guards, before cutting through the wire enclosure housing the titi monkey.  The men then took the monkey and jumped over a fence into a nearby park.  Titi monkeys are sometimes traded illegally as pets.  The baby was one of almost 20 titi monkeys of the Callicebus genus in the zoo. 

U.S. Government Sued for Polar Bear Decision Delay

National Geographic News, March 10, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/03/080310-AP-polar-bears.html

The Center for Biological Diversity, the Natural Resources Defense Council and Greenpeace sued the U.S. Department of the Interior for failing to meet a deadline on a decision to list polar bears as threatened.  The groups say that the loss of sea ice due to global warming is getting worse, and an immediate decision is necessary to protect polar bears.  The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommended listing the polar bears as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.  Nothing has been heard from the federal government, which was supposed to make a decision on this issue two months ago. 

Court Upholds Towns Ordinance Banning Animal Sacrifice

Associated Press, March 10, 2008

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hf1t25jnEB_COLAcZY0fA5vYwQ_wD8VAVPDO0

Jose Merced, a Santeria priest, sued the city of Euless, Texas, for refusing his request to sacrifice a goat as part of a religious ceremony. The city offered to allow him to kill chickens, which is not illegal, but refused to allow him to sacrifice goats on the grounds that it violates city ordinances prohibiting animal cruelty, the keeping of livestock, and disposal of animal waste.  Merced sued the city, alleging that the denial violated his right to practice religious sacrifices in his home. A federal court ruled in favor of the city, saying that Merced could perform the rituals elsewhere and that the ordinances could be upheld as they were intended to protect the public health within the city limits.

Woman Faces Fine for Dyeing Poodle Pink

The Denver Channel, March 10, 2008

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/15559998/detail.html

A Boulder, CO, woman, Joy Douglas, was fined $1,000 for dyeing her poodle Cici pink. Douglas claims to have dyed Cici pink in order to raise awareness for breast cancer.  In addition, Douglas, a salon owner, said that for four years she has dyed her dog, using either beet juice or Kool-Aid.  According to the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, Douglas was warned several times before receiving the fine.  Douglas is accused of violating a Boulder city code, which makes it illegal for a person to “dye or color live fowl, rabbits, or any other animals.”  Douglas said she plans to appear in court to fight the fine, arguing that dyeing her dog pink helps to raise awareness for an important issue.     

Animal Law Gains Popularity in Australia

The Australian, March 7, 2008

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23330564-17044,00.html

According to the head of the Australian Law Reform Commission, animal law is becoming so popular in universities that it could match the current popularity of environmental law within a generation.  As of 2008, animal law courses are being offered at three Australian universities, the University of New South Wales, Griffith University and Wollongong University.  However, Sydney University, Monash University, Bond University and Flinders University are also set to offer animal law courses beginning in 2009.  As Steven White of Griffith University Law School writes, “A broader emphasis on humane education in schools and colleges is likely to further stimulate demand, as will initiatives such as Voiceless Animal Advocates, a newly established network of university student societies advocating for improved animal protection."  Australia’s first animal law journal, Australian Animal Protection Law, is also expected to be out soon. 

Kentucky Animal Abuse Bill Clears Senate Committee

WKYT, March 6, 2008

http://www.wkyt.com/news/headlines/16361446.html

A Kentucky State Senate committee has just passed an animal abuse bill that would increase penalties for animal torture.  This bill would change a first offense of torturing a dog or cat from a misdemeanor to a felony.  If passed, the bill would raise the penalty for animal torture from less than one year in county jail to up to five years in prison.  This bill is generally the same as Romeo’s Law, a House bill named after a Pulaski County dog that was beaten last summer.  Though this Senate bill breezed through the committee, some people voiced the concern that the bill would not be strongly enforced.  Supporters of the bill say that if it passes the full Senate, they can expect a favorable reading in the House. 

Marine Throws Puppy Off Cliff

ABC News, March 4, 2008

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=4384322

The United States Marine Corps is investigating one of its members after a video aired on YouTube showing a Marine throwing a puppy off a cliff.  In a video that looks like it was shot with a cell phone camera, a Marine holds a small black-and-white puppy up by the neck and says, “Cute little puppy, huh?”  He then hurls the puppy off the cliff.  The puppy’s yelps can be heard until he hits the ground.  The Marine then shrugs his shoulders while another Marine laughs and says, “That was mean.” The Marine Corps has condemned the video as “shocking and deplorable,” and promised to take appropriate action.  In the meantime, questions are surfacing on the Internet as to whether the video is authentic.      

Appellate Court Upholds Navy Sonar Bans

National Geographic, March 3, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/03/080303-AP-navy-sonar.html

The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the district court’s restrictions on the use of high-powered sonar off the coast of southern California. These restrictions will help protect marine mammals from hearing loss and other injuries caused by the sonar.  Southern California’s coastal waters are home to dozens of species of whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions, of which nine species are federally listed as endangered or threatened.  Though the Navy claims that the restrictions will limit its ability to effectively train, conservation groups view the limits as a victory.  According to Joel Reynolds, the director of the Marine Mammal Protection Project at the Natural Resources Defense Council, “The court found that the Navy must be environmentally responsible when training with high intensity sonar and that doing so won't interfere with military readiness.”  A federal judge in Hawaii has also issued a similar ban.        

New Law Prohibiting Dog Chains Affects Low-Income Communities

American-Statesman, March 3, 2008

http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/03/03/0303dogchain.html

In the first four months following the decision of the city of Austin, Texas, to pass an ordinance prohibiting dogs from being left unattended on outdoor chains or tethers, the city received 875 calls regarding possible violations.  As a result, the city has issued 98 citations with potential fines of up to $500 for each misdemeanor charge.  An analysis of Austin city records shows that the zip codes with the most calls about possible violations correspond to the poorer areas in the city, where dogs are often kept on chains because the owners cannot afford to erect fencing.  City officials have acknowledged that the law might disproportionately affect lower-income residents, and as a result, have created a fund to provide vouchers to help cover the cost of fencing.   

Canada Breaks Up Largest Cockfighting Ring

Yahoo News, February 29, 2008

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20080229/wl_canada_afp/canadaanimalpolice_080229200821

Last week Canadian authorities broke up what is believed to be the country’s largest cockfighting ring.  Federal police and animal control officers raided farms in western Canada, discovering five fighting pits, 1270 fighting birds tied to barrels, and a variety of cockfighting paraphernalia on two properties.  Several of the birds had infected wounds, missing eyes and head injuries.  In total, all 1270 of the birds were euthanized.  If convicted, suspects could face up to six months in prison and a $2000 fine, in addition to being prohibited from owning animals for two years. 

Maryland Looks to Increase Penalties for Animal Fight Attendance

Examiner, February 28, 2008

http://www.examiner.com/a-1248288~Dogfighting_bill_moves_ahead_in_Md_.html

The Maryland House of Delegates has voted unanimously to increase penalties, including maximum jail time and fines, for people attending a dogfight or cockfight.  The Senate has already passed a very similar version, so now the two sides need to come up with an acceptable single version before passing the bill on to Governor O’Malley for approval.  While the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and sponsors of the animal fighting bills hoped to make the crime of attending an animal fight a felony, some lawmakers were hesitant to up the degree of the crime.  Sponsors say they are pleased that the House has approved the new tougher penalties, and will try again in the future to make attendance at an animal fight a felony. 

Reading City, PA. Dangerous Dog Ordinance Thrown Out in Court

Baltimore Sun, February 27, 2008

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/features/mutts/blog/2008/02/pit_bull_law_tossed_out_in_rea.html

A Pennsylvania Appeals Court has thrown out a Reading City Dangerous dog ordinance.  The ordinance subjected owners of aggressive dogs to certain restrictions, such as keeping the dogs muzzled and on a three foot leash while outside the home.  The ordinance defined aggressive dogs based on their breeds.  Any dog that was even partly of a breed that accounted for more than 40% of dog bites in the city the previous year was deemed a dangerous dog.  The ordinance was struck down because it conflicted with the State statute that did not define dangerous dogs based on breed or statistics that are subject to change each year, but rather on the actions of individual dogs.

Spay and Neuter Law Passes in Los Angeles

Associated Press, February 26, 2008

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jgRWYTXz-GJFcPxxDs8ZMAUc613wD8V2BEM00

Los Angeles Mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa, signed a pet sterilization law that requires most residents to have their pets spayed or neutered before reaching 4 months old.  The law was in response to the large number of animals taken into the city and subsequently euthanized.  Last year alone the city took in 50,000 dogs and cats, and euthanized roughly 15,000 which cost the city $2 million.  The new law provides exemptions for animals that compete in shows, guide dogs, and animals belonging to professional breeders.  Violators of the act will first receive information about subsidized sterilization services, and if compliance is not met after that fines or community service.  The city hopes the law will help make Los Angeles a “no-kill city”.

Deputy Shoots Dog: Was it Legal?

Gainesville Sun, February 17, 2008

http://www.gainesvillesun.com/article/20080217/NEWS/802170317/1002/NEWS

Several weeks ago Florida K-9 Deputy Tom Willcox shot his retired police dog Kozar, sparking a debate as to whether the shooting was legal and a humane form of euthanasia.  Willcox shot Kozar, who was thirteen years old and in declining health, in the head as he was biting a sleeve used to train police dogs. According to Sheriff Sadie Darnell, Willcox decided to end Kozar’s life this way so that “his last memory would be one of doing something he loved.”  The vague wording of the Florida statute governing shooting pets has led to the question of under what circumstances shooting a pet is legal.  Kozar’s shooting has led to outrage and condemnation, both from other K-9 officers who say that Kozar’s life ended without the dignity he deserved as a former officer, and animal activists who believe that it will give the public free rein to shoot their pets and that shooting an animal is a risky and cruel form of euthanasia. 

Agencies’ Agreement Could Bring End to Animal Testing

USA Today, February 15, 2008

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/2008-02-14-animal-tests_N.htm

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Toxicology Program and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have signed a “Memorandum of Understanding” to develop and implement new methods for toxicity testing. According to Martin Stephens of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), “this is the beginning of the end for animal testing.  We think the (conversion) process will take about 10 years.”  Although there are no published figures, Stephens says that there are probably about 10 million animals used in toxicity testing each year, including rats, mice, rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs and monkeys. The new methods would replace this use of animals for testing, instead relying on human cells grown in test tubes and computer-driven testing machines.  In addition, the new system would enable scientists to test 1536 different chemicals at one time, a drastic change compared to the 30 years it has taken the EPA to test 2500 chemicals using animals.  The EPA has already begun evaluating 300 chemicals with the new methods.

Proposed Ban on Carbon Monoxide Euthanasia in Illinois

The Chicago Tribune, February 10, 2008

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-gas-pets-euthanasia-080210,0,7720766.story

Illinois state representative John Fritchey has introduced legislation that would ban the use of carbon monoxide gas for the euthanasia of cats and dogs.  The practice of euthanizing animals by carbon monoxide poisoning is widely regarded as inhumane, and remains legal in only eight states.  In addition to banning the use of carbon monoxide for pet euthanasia, the new law would also restrict people who have been convicted of cruelty to animals from obtaining a license for animal euthanasia, and require training for euthanasia technicians every five years.  

US Sea Turtle Smuggler Pleads Guilty

CBS 4 Denver, February 9, 2008

http://cbs4denver.com/local/Esteban.Lopez.Estrada.2.650298.html

Mexican national Esteban Lopez Estrada pleaded guilty in federal court to smuggling skins of endangered sea turtles.  Lopez Estrada was one of eleven people indicted in Denver in 2007 following a three-year investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  Prosecutors claim that Lopez Estrada organized sales of the skins to U.S. customers through his business Botas Exoticas Canada Grande in Mexico.  After making the sale, Lopez Estrada arranged for the skins to be smuggled across the border.  The Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) prohibits the international trade in all sea turtle parts.

African Nations Create Anti-Ivory Trade Coalition

Fox Business, February 8, 2008

http://www.foxbusiness.com/article/african-nations-join-forces-form-antiivory-trade-coalition_471441_1.html

Officials from 17 African countries have signed a landmark agreement in an attempt to save the African elephant.  The delegates gathered in the West African country of Mali’s capital to discuss how they will deal with the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species’ (CITES) decision to allow large-scale ivory stock sales.  The Anti-Ivory Trade Coalition will handle issues arising from this large-scale sale of ivory and its effects on elephant poaching.  The Director of National Parks & Biosphere Reserves in Mali, Bourama Niagate, stated that “Ivory trade anywhere is a threat to elephants everywhere.  Success in elephant conservation will depend first on the elimination of the ivory trade.” 

Perpetrators of Puerto Rico Pet Massacre Go To Trial

International Herald Tribune, February 6, 2008

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/02/06/news/Puerto-Rico-Pet-Massacre.php

A Superior Court Judge has ruled that there is sufficient evidence for Julio Diaz, the owner of the animal control agency, and two of his employees to stand trial on charges of animal cruelty.  These charges stem from the October massacre of about 80 seized pets that were thrown from a bridge in Barceloneta, Puerto Rico.  Diaz blamed the municipality of Barceloneta for seizing the animals, and claimed he did not know who had thrown them from the bridge.  Barceloneta municipal officials said that they hired Diaz’s company to remove the animals from the housing projects, but believed that the animals would be taken to shelters.  An investigation by The Associated Press has revealed that brutal methods are routinely used to kill thousands of pets and stray animals in Puerto Rico.

US Judge Supports Control of Whale-Affecting Sonar

Yahoo News, February 5, 2008

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080205/ap_on_re_us/navy_sonar

A US District Judge has ruled that the Navy must comply with existing restrictions relating to sonar that may be harmful to whales and other marine life.  On January 15, 2008, President Bush signed a waiver, which exempted the Navy and its anti-submarine warfare exercises from compliance with both the National Environmental Protection Act as well as a court injunction that created a 12 nautical-mile no-sonar zone off the coast of Southern California.  The district judge’s decision to enforce Navy compliance has been hailed by the Natural Resources Defense Council as “reinstate[ing] the proper balance between national security and environmental protection.”  Scientists have previously reported that loud sonar can damage the ears and brains of marine mammals and may interfere with natural sonar echoes used to locate food. 

Kenya Protection Measures Increase Elephant Population

International Herald Tribune, February 3, 2008

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/02/03/africa/AF-GEN-Kenya-Elephants.php

Kenya’s elephant population is increasing, due to successful anti-poaching measures as well as bans on the illegal ivory trade.  Kenya is home to an estimated 30,000 elephants.  A month ago the Kenya Wildlife Service recorded 11,700 elephants in Africa’s second-largest game reserve, Tsavo, a number representing more than a four percent increase from three years ago.  This number was recorded during a five-day aerial census, which was part of a global elephant monitoring system included in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species which monitors wildlife.  In June, the Convention imposed a nine-year freeze on the global ivory trade.  According to Tsavo’s director, the game reserve has seen consistent growth in elephant numbers, with significant drops in carcass rates.             

Humane Society Exposes Hallmark Meat Packing Co. Cruelty

The Post-Chronicle, February 1, 2008

http://www.postchronicle.com/news/original/article_212127958.shtml

The Hallmark Meat Packing Co. slaughterhouse has had their license suspended indefinitely following the release of a video taken by an undercover agent for the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which revealed the horrific abuse of downed cattle at the slaughterhouse.  The tape showed slaughterhouse employees kicking sick or injured cows, ramming them with the blades of a forklift, shocking them with electric prods, and forcing them to walk on broken hind legs in attempts to make them walk to their own deaths.  According to Wayne Pacelle, president of HSUS, “the attempt was to make them so distressed and to cause them so much suffering that these animals would get up and walk into the slaughterhouse.”  The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced an investigation into these charges of inhumane treatment of disabled cattle.  Hallmark Meat Packing Co. supplies meat to Westland Meat Packing Co., which distributes beef to needy families, the elderly and the national school lunch program.  The schools have pulled all the beef they received from the plant from their shelves.    

EU Takes Malta to Court over Bird Hunting

Times of Malta, February 1, 2008

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080201/local/malta-will-abide-by-eu-courts-decision

The European Union decided to take Malta to court for failure to comply with legislation relating to the spring hunting of wild birds.  Despite various written warnings sent by the European Commission (EC) since 2006, the Maltese government refused to commit to preventing the hunting of quail and turtledoves.  The hunting of these migratory birds takes place as they fly from Africa to breeding grounds in Europe, occurring before the birds have had a chance to reproduce.  According to the EC, this hunting during the breeding season puts the birds’ populations at risk.  The EC has requested that the European Court of Justice issue a temporary order barring spring hunting until the case is decided. 

Family Pets Latest Victims of US Sub-prime Crisis

Chicago Tribune, January 28, 2008

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-tue_foreclosepets_0121jan22,1,187663.story?page=1

The US sub-prime mortgage crisis is leading to an increase in the number of abandoned pets. As more and more people face foreclosure, an increasing number of household pets are being left behind to fend for themselves. Animal shelters throughout the Chicago area, including the Naperville Area Humane Society and the Animal Welfare League, are reporting a definite increase over the past six months in the number of animals surrendered due to foreclosure.  In the third quarter of 2007, Illinois saw about 20,000 homes in foreclosure, up 80% from the previous year.  The sub-prime mortgage crisis is not unique to Illinois; however, with authorities reporting increased foreclosure-related abandonment around the country.  Inevitably, animals left behind starve to death, spending their last days trapped in the house alone, desperately trying to find something to eat.  Earlier this month the Humane Society of the United States issued a public statement condemning the illegal and irresponsible abandonment of animals and encouraging people who face foreclosure to plan ahead to keep their whole family—pets included—together.          

Schumacher Furs to Pay Animal Activists’ Legal Fees

Associated Press, January 25, 2008

http://www.katu.com/news/local/14444957.html

A federal judge in Portland, Oregon, has ordered Schumacher Furs & Outerwear and its operator to pay almost $97,000 in attorney’s fees to animal rights activists.  Schumacher sued animal rights activists for $6.6 million over weekly protests staged at a downtown Schumacher furs store.  The lawsuit was dismissed last summer.  In his Thursday ruling, Judge Mosman ordered Schumacher to compensate People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, In Defense of Animals, and protester Kevin Mieras.  Mosman called the suit “an extraordinary abuse of the litigation process,” and a threat to free speech.

Animal Clones Approved as Food

BBC News, January 15, 2008

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7190305.stm

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ruled that meat and milk from cloned pigs, cattle and goats and their offspring is safe for human consumption.  This decision marks the culmination of six years of study on whether food derived from cloned animals is safe to eat.  Some politicians and activist groups have criticized the FDA’s ruling, claiming that there is not enough scientific data available to justify a decision.  The FDA will not allow products derived from cloned animals to be labeled as such because they are chemically indistinguishable from non-cloned animal products.

DNR to Increase Protection for Canada Lynx

Star Tribune, January 12, 2008

http://www.startribune.com/sports/outdoors/11647006.html

Two animal protection groups, The Humane Society of the United States and Help Our Wolves Live, filed suit in federal court in Minneapolis last summer, claiming that a trapping program authorized by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was causing too many lynx to be killed.  Though the traps target animals such as red fox, martens and bobcats, lynx are getting caught and injured in the traps.  However, the suit has been dropped after DNR agreed to do more to keep the lynx safe from the traps.  The Canada lynx is a threatened species in the lower 48 states and is protected by Endangered Species Act. 

Chinese Turtle Smuggler Enters Guilty Plea in U.S. Court

The Denver Post, January 10, 2008

http://www.denverpost.com/ci_7934047

Chinese national Fu Yiner pled guilty in U.S. District Court to charges linking him to the illegal smuggling of shells and shell products from the internationally protected Hawksbill sea turtle.  Fu admitted to knowingly shipping raw shell and guitar picks made from turtle shells from China to undercover agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service working in Colorado during 2006 and 2007.  The shipments of 5 kilograms of raw shell and 300 guitar picks were valued at more than $3000.  The Hawksbill sea turtle is listed as an endangered species. 

Animal Activists Halt Dutch Science Park

BBC News, January 9, 2008

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7179134.stm

Dutch developer Van der Looy told the Venray town council that it is withdrawing from a science park project after harassment by animal rights protesters.  Reportedly animal rights protestors painted graffiti on the homes of project managers.  The science park, Sciencelink, was to be a 60 million-euro ($90 million) center for life science.  Sciencelink would have had many research and development facilities, some of which may have involved testing on animals for food and medication. Town councilors have condemned the protestors’ actions, calling it a form of “terrorism.”  However, a statement on the Dutch website “Stop Animal Testing” announced the “good news for animals” that the developer was withdrawing, and threatened to target any others that may follow.  Council leaders are still discussing what steps to take next.    

U.S. Postpones Polar Bear Listing Decision

National Geographic, January 7, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/01/080107-polar-bears.html

The United States government delayed making a decision on whether to list the polar bear as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.  According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the postponement stems not from scientific uncertainty or a pending lease sale for oil and gas development in polar bear habitat, but rather from a backlog of work.  Though no official date has been set, the Fish and Wildlife Service said it plans to make a formal recommendation within thirty days.  While the Fish and Wildlife Service claims that evaluation of reports concluding that two-thirds of the world’s polar bears could go extinct by 2050 prompted the delay, others are suspicious that the delay is political and not scientific.  A coalition of environmental groups will file a lawsuit to enforce the deadline.        

Brazilian Albino Alligators Stolen from Zoo

National Geographic, January 7, 2008

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/01/080107-AP-brazil-alli.html

Authorities suspect animal smugglers stole seven rare albino alligators from a Brazilian university zoo.  The albino alligators are the result of ten years of inbreeding, and cannot be found in the wild.  Brazilian police believe the alligators may have been stolen to be sold abroad or to animal smugglers in Brazil.  Brazil accounts for about 15% of the world’s illegal animal trading, which is worth 10 to 20 billion U.S. dollars annually.  These rare albino alligators are worth about $9700 each.  Suspected thieves left behind one alligator, with another two housed at the São Paulo Aquarium.