Public appeal following the Kolbotek inquiry regarding animal abuse in the livestock market
Since its founding 85 years ago, the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Israel has been active in preventing animal suffering and distress and has been a partner in the struggle against animal exploitation and against methods of cruelty and abuse, particularly in industrialized economies. herefore, the TV show, Kolbotek’s, investigation that was broadcast a few days ago on Channel 2, regarding the extreme abuse of calves in the Tnuva Company’s slaughter house, came as no surprise.
The meat, milk and egg industry sells a vast variety of packed and well-branded products, which often display images of smiling animals on their packaging. However, these marketing strategies hide scenes of horror filled with animal suffering and torment. These animals are exploited by the industry and pay a high price which is not in keeping with the values of any company wishing to be considered ethical.
We welcome the broadcasting of the inquiry and hope that it will raise awareness of this important issue even further and will help to promote two main proceedings:
Public pressure on our elected representatives and on the relevant Government ministries, to utilize the investigation and follow its conclusions by bringing to justice, according to the Law for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, all those involved. To our regret, the penalties imposed upon these criminals are not heavy and do not do enough to deter them, and we expect the legal system to comprehend the severity of these acts and to penalize accordingly. We believe that the supervision and corresponding punishment should both be increased in order to bring about a change in the situation. In addition, every person can help in the struggle through applying pressure by approaching the MK’s who have it in their power to amend the legislation.
Change in consumer behavior: Every one of us has personal responsibility. Every one of us has the freedom to choose what will be placed on his plate and if, on the way to his plate, animal abuse was involved. The alternatives exist, also for those who do not choose the vegetarian or vegan way of life. Raising questions such as how the animals are raised and how they are brought to slaughter will lead every person to make a choice according to his conscience. However, no mistake should be made, and it is important to know that most of the consumers of products deriving from animals are perpetuating, albeit unknowingly, the present situation where economic and other interests influence the cruel nature of this industry.