Farm Animal Abuse—How You Can Help

Friday, March 1, 2013 - 11:00am
Chickens at a factory farm

This month nine states are considering legislation to criminalize the documentation of animal abuse on farms. “Ag-gag” or anti-whistleblower bills prevent the exposure of photos or video showing the unethical and often highly unsafe practices that all too often occur on industrial farms. This kind of evidence has recently led to cruelty prosecutions, massive food recalls and industry reform. The ASPCA is working hard to make sure these dangerous bills do not become law and you can help by reaching out to your representatives.

There is a reason that footage of farm animals is controversial. The vast majority of U.S. farm animals are raised on factory farms in filthy, overcrowded ammonia-filled sheds. They lead short lives full of suffering and frustration, are bred for unnaturally excessive growth and production, and are regularly dosed with antibiotics to compensate for their wretched surroundings. They also, way too often, are subject to cruel and depraved acts of violence.

The good news is that awareness of farm animal welfare is on the rise in all sectors: among consumers, farmers, legislatures, retailers, prosecutors and even food corporations. Better treatment of farm animals has simply become an ethical imperative, and the ASPCA is on the scene, educating the public, fighting for stronger laws and supporting more humane farming practices.

To learn more, check out our updated and comprehensive web pages containing lots of information on farm animals. You’ll find useful information on animals raised for food, what’s wrong with factory farming, and great resources for making a difference, including how to make more welfare conscious food choices.

We’re thrilled to be your go-to source for farm animal information and encourage you to get educated and engaged to help billions of animals.

Add new comment




I'm hoping we can stop this savagery as soon as possible. Animals have the right to NOT suffer.

Sheila Winkler

I think this bill is long overdue. I think it is disgusting the conditions these poor animals are forced to live in. I recently read an article where a group of horses in Midvale, Utah had been starved so badly that they even ate the bark off of the trees. Fortunately, the 2 individuals involved in this horrible deed were arrested and I hope they go to prison for a long time.


Legislation for this should be passed. The images used by ASPCA, PETA, as well as HSUS misrepresents the agricultural industry as a whole. These attacks on how our food is produced makes it harder for people who DO care very much for their animals to produce wholesome safe products because the increase costs of care. I work one on one with farmers to keep their animals healthy and comfortable everyday. I stand by the products they produce because I know the standards they are held to. The work they do is out of love for the animals. As a registered veterinary technician I educate our clients (the farmers ) on proper antibiotic use so it doesn't enter the food supply and I also have many conversations about improving comfort for the animals. All the farms in our area have VERY happy healthy animals.


What are the nine states? Article doesn't list them!


Abusers should be punished


this must end now!!!

Cindy de la Garza

Please protect animals. Don't let it become illegal to videotape or film in anyway because that's the only way people find out the truth and make things better!

Robert Paladini

Stop taking money from meat industry lobbyist, you are there to represent the people's first amendment rights.

Sara Menchaca

Stop animal abuse!

Theresa Garbarino

Please stop this heinous cruelty to these poor defenseless chickens.