AWI Quarterly Term Archive
Government/Legal
Continuing Assault on Wildlife Protections
Terrestrial WildlifeOur country’s vital wildlife protections are facing ongoing attacks that have unraveled decades of progress. In August, two federal agencies proposed yet another change to the Endangered Species Act (ESA)...
Tiger King’s Zoo Finally Shut Down
Terrestrial WildlifeThe Netflix series Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness brought unprecedented public attention to the activities of roadside zoos such as Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park (GW Zoo) in Oklahoma. This zoo,...
AWI Releases Latest Update on Humane Slaughter Enforcement
Farmed AnimalsIn early 2008, a slaughterhouse investigation revealed multiple incidents of egregious cruelty to cattle at the Westland-Hallmark Meat Packing Co. in Chino, California, resulting in widespread public outrage and the...
Kentucky to Allow Vets to Report Animal Abuse
Farmed AnimalsIn April, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signed into law SB 21, now allowing veterinarians to report incidents of animal abuse and mistreatment, including those involving farm animals covered under the...
Colorado Bans Wildlife Killing Contests
Terrestrial WildlifeIn a significant victory, Colorado has banned wildlife killing contests. Such contests are cruel events in which participants kill animals for cash, prizes, and entertainment, often with awards given for...
Tiger King: Series Shocks but Skates Past Animal Suffering
Terrestrial WildlifeA tiger removed from a tiny apartment in New York City by first responders after he bit his owner. Lions running down the highway after 38 big cats were released...
Chicago Bans Horse-Drawn Carriages
EquinesIn other news related to horse welfare, a major victory was gained when the Chicago City Council voted 46–4 to ban the use of horse-drawn carriages in the city. The...
Horse Transportation Safety Act Poised to Move Forward
EquinesThe use of double-deck trailers to transport horses is inhumane and can lead to debilitating injuries. With their low ceiling clearance, these trailers are designed to haul shorter and stouter...
Legislators Push for Animal Welfare Measures
Although the coronavirus pandemic kept Congress more or less shuttered this spring, AWI nonetheless worked with legislators to get strong animal welfare positions on record. A bipartisan group of 78...
USDA Steps Up—and Steps Back—with New License Renewal Rules
The US Department of Agriculture is making significant changes to the licensing requirements under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), and is increasing requirements for dogs at the premises of dealers,...