Maite Kropp: Sacrificing animal ethic

Once again, there will be a massive massacring of animals in many Asian countries, all in the name of religion. The India Times reveals that as the day of Bakrid is near, farm animals are being corralled for people to purchase and sacrifice them.

In a letter to all state government officials, the Animal Welfare Board of India raises immediate concern about the care of the animals, cautioning that protection must comply with the country's Animal Welfare Act.

In the past, these "sacrificial" animals have physically suffered during transport.

Trucks do not always provide ventilation for these doomed animals, sentient creatures that are forced to stand for long periods, exhausted and lacking water, resulting in lingering deaths.

The AWBI has noted that, in many areas, animals butchered for food and religious sacrifices are not being inspected before slaughter by a licensed professional, such as a veterinarian, even when the animal's flesh will be consumed by humans.

So, who will be monitoring these "sacrificial" events?

Like the slaughterhouses in our own country, one is never quite sure if anyone will ensure that the animals are treated humanely before death.

During this time of year, when Mr. Goat and Mr. Horns lived here at this refuge, I was approached by individuals wanting to purchase them for slaughter.

I often wondered how many others living in the rural Allendale area of Solano County were approached in the same manner, to end an animal's life in the celebration of a religious holiday.

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According to the latest news from Karachi, the largest farm animal market in Asia has already been filled with animals. So far, 70,000 goats have arrived.

Sohrab Goth Cattle Market, on 700 acres of land divided by blocks allocated to the vendors, will exhibit the animals by breed.

Shahab Ali, the market's administrator, stated that animals are being transported from far regions of the country and as many as 175,000 cows and bulls are on their way.

Arrangements have already been made for the "sacrificial slaughter" of 100,000 goats.

Shahab Ali stated: "The market's administration has provided important facilities, such as water for cattle, five ramps, public toilets, street lights, medical care for customers, veterinarians, ambulances for sellers and purchasers, a media center and the Masjid Bank with ATM facility."

The news article does not give the number of veterinarians or how these veterinarians will be able to inspect the thousands of farm animals in time for the religious festivities of Bakrid.

What is certain is that wanton disregard of animals continues in the name of religion.

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