March 2, 2011
ASPCA Speaks Out for Ohio Veal Calves
In Ohio, calves raised for veal typically are housed in tiny stalls, often chained at the neck, making it is impossible for them to turn around, stretch or even lie down comfortably. This barbaric practice is used to prevent muscle development—ultimately producing a more “tender” meat, without regard for the well-being of the calves themselves. The American Veal Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, and Ohio Veterinary Medical Association all reject this practice and support living conditions that allow veal calves to turn around.
In 2010, the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board approved a new standard: By the end of 2017, veal calves of all ages must be given enough room to be able to turn around. However, in a tragic turn of events, the board met yesterday (March 1) and approved an amendment that will allow veal farmers to continue to confine calves in tiny, individual pens for the first 10 weeks of their lives.
“We are very disappointed that the board voted 6-5 in favor of removing language that would have allowed calves of all ages to turn around,” says Cori Menkin, ASPCA Senior Director of Legislative Initiatives. “Since veal calves generally live only 16 to 18 weeks before they are slaughtered, these animals will be confined to tiny crates for more than half of their short lives.”
Take Action!
If you live in Ohio, tell the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board that you believe calves raised for veal should be provided with enough space to be able to turn around—at all stages of their lives. Please visit the ASPCA Advocacy Center today to email the board and urge it to reconsider yesterday’s amendment.
Don't live in Ohio, but still want to help? Tweet this post or share it on your Facebook page or blog. To learn more about the suffering of veal calves visit our Help End Factory Farming page.
Thank you for speaking up for these under-protected animals.