Stengel, we're not giving up that easily.

Posted by: Aneliese | June 6, 2008 04:18 PM

Thank You Jack, and keep the pressure on!
We all can help...

Boycott the Belmont tomorrow!

Go Vegan

Posted by: Holly | June 6, 2008 06:16 PM

I read this news article online from a FL News Station website. Here are a few selected paragraphs:

160 Horses Rescued From an Ohio Auction Many Still Had Race Plates On!--

WELLINGTON, FL-- About 45 horses are resting at Wellington farm, and 120 more are on their way to S. Florida from Ohio, after a horse lover says she purchased them at auction to save them from slaughter.

"Quarterhorses, thoroughbreds, belgians, halflingers, ponies, you name it."
_______

Members of Pure Thoughts, Inc. went to a Ohio auction last week, hoping to save 25 horses from a slaughterhouse.
But with the help of Wellington resident and horse lover Victoria McCullough, they did that and much more. McCullough forked out $70,000 to buy 161 horses. "We outbid the kill buyers for every one of these horses, would have been heading to Mexico on the following Monday for slaughter."

"Many of these horses here, still have their race plates on, which means they (probably raced in the last 7 days) before we purchased them from the kill," said Swanson.

************************************************************

The story disturbed & angered me. The 'horse racing industry' brainwashed us into believing horses were treated like royalty, but since the death of 8 Belles atrocities like the story above are being exposed & make clear that abuse is rampant. Irresponsible breeders overbreed then dump healthy young thoroughbreds if they lose races. Slaughterhouses in Mexico & Canada are the dumping grounds. My friend, a former horse trainer, offered to buy a horse from an owner about to send it to an auction famous for 'kill buyers' outbidding others. He refused, even though she offered more money than the auction would have. She thinks he didn't want to admit the horse was healthy & had a chance to live. She left the racing industry 4 years ago because drugs & horse breakdowns leading to euthanasia worsened. She also saw an increase in healthy young horses going to auction & sold to kill buyers, then off to slaughter.
Unscrupulous corporations see the animals as an investment, not a living being. We must fight the odds against big money & tradition backed by greed. Ban this so called 'sport' that is nothing but animal exploitation run amok.

Posted by: jazmine623 | June 6, 2008 06:55 PM

This is absolutely ridiculous! This story is being taken way too far! Anyone who knows anything about horseracing will tell you the same. You want to know the real reason for Eight Belles' death? It was an accident! She took a wrong step and unfortunately the outcome was fatal. She wasn't "killed." Horses can not recover from an injury like that. Even if the owners never wanted to race her again, she could not have recovered. The situation was handled in a very humane manner. And trying to put blame on the jockey is mind-blowing. The incident occurred after the finish line and the rider was trying to pull her up. (That means he was trying to get her to stop.) He wasn't pushing her in any way. And if Eight Belles felt sore before the race, the rider would have never let her go into the starting gate. Which again, screams out that this was just a very unfortunate accident. I'm not saying it wasn't sad, but it was simply an unforseen accident. The allegations from PETA have evryone all stirred up. People who knew nothing about the sport prior to this incident, and people who never watch horse races other than on the third Saturday in May, are now screaming animal cruelty! This has turned into way more than it should be. With everyone (those who know nothing about horseracing) rebelling against the sport and giving it a negative image that it does not deserve, changes nothing for those of us ho actually have a clue.

Posted by: Racing Enthusiast | June 6, 2008 10:04 PM

Dear Jack:

I must first thank you for advancing my own sentiment about Eight Belles and the fact that she is now being forgotten in light of Big Bob, or Bad Bob, or Big Brown, or the horse of the day for the gamblers and miscreants who care not about these animals. To them, a horse dies, then move on to the next. Obviously I have a problem with this.

I have said this before and will say it again, I do not believe a horse breaks both legs unless they have been given performance enhancing "medication". Certainly not a horse of the caliber of Eight Belles.

I suspect the cruelty to animal stautes are not the right avenue for redress in Kentucky. I suggest we look further into Kentucky law.

Maybe we need to look at the perscription/nonperscription drugs Kentucky sanctions and then allows to be used on the finest most fragile animals in the world.

I am so disgusted with how Eight Belles' case has been treated that I will never support another horse race, nor the industry in general.

I know this is now all about revenue, but I think, if the owners of the now favorite for the Crown had any class they would, at the very least, dedicate this last run to Eight Belles. I think she must be remembered. Actually, I insist that she be remembered.

I thank you Jack for your post and I will send my thoughts to the Governor.

Vaneta Bagatelos

Posted by: Lou | June 7, 2008 06:26 AM

I couldnt find anywhere to write this. I think Peta should have a message board in front page. Anyway, DONT WATCH "YOU DONT MESS WITH ZOHAN.In the movie they are kicking and peeing on cats, hitting a cows, it is disgusting. PLEASE LET EVERYONE KNOW THIS!

Posted by: Eva | June 7, 2008 10:07 AM

Cruelty to animals in KY is typically a misdemeanor (unless it is charged under the animal fighting statute). Misdemeanors in most counties are handled by the county attorneys, not the commonwealth's attorneys. The county attorney ought to investigate.

Posted by: Dean Wean | June 7, 2008 10:29 AM

why didnt you post my comment on Adam Sandler's movie? You should warn everyone about it. We all need to protest him! and his disgusting movie

Posted by: eva | June 7, 2008 01:25 PM

I am so angry!
When I think of all those beautiful horses who will run today at the Belmont who will end up in the at the slaughter house alone and totally abandoned by you ...
You horse owners must do better than this for your most loved horses...
Be accountable for the whole life of your much loved race horses, save them from the great suffering of the slaughter houses...
If you love them as you say you do, you will do this for them...If you could afford to buy them in the first place you should be able to afford to keep them, care for them and love them for the rest of their natural life. its the only decent thing to do...
If you dont...
SHAME ON YOU!!!!
SHAME ON YOU!!!!
SHAME ON YOU!!!!
I hope their death weighs very heavy on your minds and haunts you the rest of your lives!!! It should, if you allow this to happen...to any of your horses...

GO VEGAN

Posted by: Holly | June 7, 2008 02:13 PM

So, they ran Big Brown today with a bad foot and he came in last...
yet another black eye for the raceing industry. Letting a horse run with a bad foot...
Greed, Greed, Greed.
I feel sorry for Big Brown tonight, his treatment wont be the same from this day forward...

Get them PETA!!!

Go VEGAN

Posted by: Holly | June 7, 2008 06:06 PM

Hi, Jack. My name is Kirsten and I live in Kentucky. I've always hated that our state is known for horse racing or the "most exciting 2 minutes in sports." I was outraged when I heard about Eight Belles. I was wondering if there was anything I could do to help since I am a Kentucky resident. Please contact me with any information. Thank you for your time!

Posted by: Kirsten Sturm | June 8, 2008 01:11 AM

I am looking into vegetarian/vegan diets for cats and dogs - if at all poss - for former in particular. Read what appeared to be balanced article on dognutrition.com but dates back to 2004 and also would like to know who is behind this site. Any info on up to date research would be gratefully received.

Regards, Michele Fox

Posted by: Michele Fox | June 8, 2008 03:08 AM

So a lesson was learned by running Big Brown with his hurt foot with out steroids. I am sorry he had to run but I am very glad the people will learn that its not good to pump these horses up with drugs to make them run win even when they are hurt.
Lets also keep these wonderful animals away from the awful slaughter houses.
And Thank PETA and all other people who care about our animal friends.
Go Vegan

Posted by: Holly | June 8, 2008 02:11 PM

If Stengal wants to hold that position, he can't shirk his responsibilities when it's uncomfortable for him.
Good going, Peta!

Posted by: lynda downie | June 9, 2008 01:23 AM

Hi Michele Fox,

Why don't you post your question in the Companion Animals section of the PETA forums? It's a good one.

Posted by: Mike Quinoa | June 9, 2008 10:39 AM

Where legislators get payola from industries that hurt animals, they let people get away with it.

Look at U.S. REPRESENTATIVE Jim Sensenbrenner of Wisconsin. This guy was helping his pals, the DOG FIGHTERS, keep on committing crimes.

Posted by: kelly | June 9, 2008 11:02 AM

From a prior owner/trainer who knows all the "dirty secrets" of this business, if you are outspoken about this industry you are denied stalls and access to backstretch racetracks. Also, they intimidate the heck out of you and your horse if you do not KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT. In short, they are dirty lowdown gangsters in suits who are controlled by legal bookies. Most races are fixed at the expense of the racehorse.

Posted by: Gina Powell | June 9, 2008 12:04 PM

I have to say that I agree with Racing Enthusiast. Like all sports (including human sports) there will be accidents and injuries. Eight Belles was no exeption. Did you think that the Jockey was trying to kill the horse? I'm sorry, but I'm tired of hearing all these people over sensationalizing the issue. There are laws and regulations to protect race horses, organizations to provide ex racehorses homes, and medical facilities to help rehabilitate injured horses and research ways to protect uninjured ones. For instance, the facility that helped Barbaro...state of the art! Please don't get all enraged on the issue until you know more about it. It seems that PETA is taking an issue and making a mountain out of a molehill. All of these claims about how all owners inject their horses with steroids and whipping them to death are false, false, false. Come on people, do you not have a life to the point where you have to do this? Unbelievably pathetic, and don't pretend I'm wrong. Focus on important issues...factory farming and fur trade anyone?

Posted by: S.Q. | June 9, 2008 08:46 PM

S.Q. If you were one of these horses, who is not protected as much as they should be by the now standing laws, you would be very glad that some one was taking the time to protect you.
And after all, people who care enough to spend time and money to save animals are making this world a better place for all, and that includes you.

This is much deeper than you obviously can see.

It is so good that you come to this blog to learn, I thank you for coming.

We wont be done with this great work until all the animals that humans use for consumption or greed or entertainment are understood and saved so their lives can belong to them and they can live them naturally.

Go Vegan...

Posted by: Holly | June 11, 2008 06:27 AM

You obviously don't see my point of view. If only we could find balance. Raise animals for food without using factory farm methods. Race horses with rules and regulations (which are already in place, by the way). Although PETA is trying to change the way animals live in our world, they fail do see both sides of an issue. Stopping all meat consumption by humans is just plain ridiculous. Banning all sports that use animals is insane. The reason PETA is given a "crazy animal people" label by so many is because many of their beliefs and ideas are irrational. Not the ones about helping animals, the ones about banning all animal products forever. For more informatio about organizations that help race horses, visit these sites:

http://www.grayson-jockeyclub.org/

http://www.unwantedhorsecoalition.org/

http://www.rmtcnet.com/

http://www.salesintegrity.org/

http://www.equinespeciesworkinggroup.com/home.html

Posted by: S.Q. | June 11, 2008 09:04 PM

ridiculous?
I dont have time right now to fully respond to you, however, to think that its ridiculous to totally stop suffering of any living creature for the use and greed of thinking humans who can do better, is by no means ridiculous.
I do see your point, truly I do.
I tell you, some day all these steps taken in "these days" will bring us in future generations to a better place for all, human, animal and earth in the long run. What is happening now is a piece of the great puzzle that I believe will some day free our animal friends from all suffering caused by humans.
Do I realize that the improvement in laws for protection of animals that are now in place are Wonderful, yes, it is a huge step in the right direction, but by no means enough. I praise all the hard working people who have brought this movement this far and are still working.
I am totally grateful for the wonderful laws that are moving us forward.
I am totally grateful to you, for I do know that your an open minded person with a very good heart who is thinking about this, and you do care about the animals.
I can tell you do care deeply, and you are a good person.

Go Vegan, and have a Wonderful Day!

Posted by: Holly | June 12, 2008 08:18 AM

YOU ARE A LIAR. those horses saved in wellington were MOSTLY horses that people can't afford to feed anymore. ONLY seven were race horses, not many. Ignorant. Out of 160, only seven were race horses. That is why there are several organizations dedicated to saving race horses. Get an education, than talk. It is sad the economy is horrible. How many cats and dogs get put down? MANY more.

Posted by: Iris | June 13, 2008 02:54 PM

Iris even if what you say would be true, and I dont know if it is or not. The real point here is Horses were saved, weather race horse or used up pet horse. Lives were saved.
also, its not nice to call some one a liar. jazmine623 is a good person, not a liar at all.

Go Vegan...

Posted by: Holly | June 13, 2008 07:25 PM

Many horses are slaughtered every year. But contrary to popular belief, most of them are NOT thoroughbreds. In reality, most are quarter horses; old family pets sent the wrong way despite well meaning people. Another fact I want to raise...with an influx of horses bred every year, many charity organizations are becoming overcrowded. In fact, the living conditions of the horses is decreasing just because there are so many of them. I am not for the slaughter practices used today in any way, but sometimes a quick death is better than a prolonged life of misery. You might disagree, but you are not one of the horses that is crammed into a one acre pen while the owners try desperataly to feed you. I believe that humans have the right to eat meat, because that is our choice, and we omnivores, after all. But I believe that we must change our slaughter methods in favor of the animals we eat. I also believe that humans have the right to use animals for sport, because it is great to see such wonderful humans and animals working together; some of the stories are inspirational. The opportunity to be with such amazing creatures is once in a lifetime.

Posted by: S.Q. | June 14, 2008 06:42 PM

S.Q.: Well, some humans choose to eat humans and some adults choose to have sex with children. Being human does not give us the right to treat other beings however we choose. Our "right" to our choices end when the life of another is negatively impacted by them.

Posted by: Antigone1000 | June 16, 2008 04:50 PM

Holly...
Let me ask you.. Where did you get your extensive knowledge of horse racing? Perhaps you took the crash course offered by HBO.. Face it before Eight Belles you knew nothing about racing at all. Typical of PETA and their followers to jump on the bandwagon stomp their feet and yell as loud as they can about something they know little about.Way before the demise of Eight Belles and Barbaro organizations such as Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation or The Gluck Equine research Center have been involved in research to help understand and minimize racing injuries and related deaths...Other organizations such as THOROUGHBRED CHARITIES OF AMERICA (their mission statement)"To provide a better life for Thoroughbreds, both during and
after their racing careers by supporting retirement, rescue and
research and by helping the people who work with them."
I don't think I have to explain what they do.--- You people think this is a cold noncaring industry based on greed. That is so far from the truth.. But you will never understand that because your not willing to learn the truth.... Want to hear a truth? Because of economic times.. Private (pleasure) horse owners are letting their horses go free in the wild because they can no longer afford to take care of these animals.. Weeks later these horses are found dead from starvation. Some foreclosed home owners are forced to bring their pets to a shelter because they no longer have a home or even worst just leave the animal at the home hoping for the best..What are you doing about those owners? What are you doing about the pets? So you still want to rant and rave about Horseracing? You people are clueless to what the real problems are. Please research ... Please take the time to learn .. Knowledge is Power.

Posted by: Dave | June 27, 2008 10:25 PM

Has PETA even thought about the consequences of eliminating all animal use by humans? What will happen to the domesticated animals bred for slaughter? You cannot just release them into the wild. Do you want them to become extinct? What about medical breakthroughs using animals? In 1923, insulin was discovered using testing on dogs. Now, millions of people have been saved and can live a normal life. Who's to say that in the near future, animal research won't produce a cure for cancer, or HIV/AIDS? Yes, it is unfortunate that the animals get the butt end of the deal. But it's no pain no gain. We have to make sacrifices to make progress. Progress may mean finding a cure for MS. Progress may mean finding research methods that do not employ animals. Think about it.

Posted by: S.Q. | July 3, 2008 09:59 PM