Animal Welfare Council Press Release
April 30, 2013
The media and public use animal welfare and animal rights interchangeably, but they are not synonymous terms. In fact, the philosophical gulf between these two belief systems and the advocacy efforts currently underway by each group carry enormous implications for the future of the horse industry. In light of legislation pending on the Federal level as well as in various State Houses, it is imperative that the general public, as well as anyone with an interest in horses as work or recreational animals, come to a full understanding of each philosophy and the methods by which proponents of each carry out their missions.
“Animal Welfare and Animal Rights: A war of words with casualties mounting” is a research-based article by Jill Montgomery on behalf of the Animal Welfare Council; it is suitable for broad publication and covers not only the philosophical differences but the comparative implications of each approach. The consequences of pending legislation will be critical to the future of the horse industry and will likely carry over to affect other livestock producers and users in the recreation, entertainment and agricultural/food industries.
The Animal Welfare Council is a non-profit, tax exempt 501 (C) (3) organization established for charitable and educational purposes. Membership includes organizations and business entities who are actively involved in caring for animalsin recreation, entertainment, sport and industry. For more information about the AWC, visit www.animalwelfarecouncil.org