Stop Killing Healthy Farm Animals in the Name of Disease Control

Target: Szabolcs Pásztor, Chief Veterinary Officer of Hungary

Goal: Ensure humane treatment of livestock during disease outbreak, and demand appropriate compensation for farmers impacted by the mass culling of animals.

In the wake of a devastating resurgence of foot-and-mouth disease, authorities in Hungary have ordered the culling of over 2,000 cows on an affected farm in Levél, with reports suggesting that even healthy animals may be killed under the guise of disease management. Allegations of inhumane treatment have emerged, highlighting emotional and shocking accounts of farmers witnessing their beloved animals being shot multiple times, as described in the harrowing experiences shared by distressed eyewitnesses. This alarming outbreak has led to local protests, where farmers express grief and anger over the handling of the situation, which many feel lacks clarity and compassion.

Eyewitness accounts describe mothers and fathers watching helplessly as their children’s pets, including calves and piglets, faced gruesome extermination. Such treatment of livestock raises serious ethical concerns regarding the mental and emotional well-being of those involved in farming.

Compensation for farmers affected by these stringent measures has reportedly been inadequate, leaving many distraught over both the loss of their livestock and their livelihoods. It is essential to demand not only humane treatment of animals during these emergencies but also the establishment of fair compensation procedures that reflect the true value of affected livestock and the emotional toll on farmers and their families. Therefore, it is imperative to advocate for immediate changes that safeguard compassion in cattle management and proper support for local farming communities.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Mr. Pásztor,

The recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Hungary has left a devastating mark on livestock farmers and their families. Reports indicate that over 2,000 cows are to be culled on a single farm, with alarming accounts of healthy animals being killed. Eyewitnesses have described gut-wrenching scenes where farmers watch in horror as their beloved animals are shot multiple times, inflicting trauma on the entire community. These actions raise urgent questions about the humane treatment of livestock during a crisis. The inadequate compensation offered for these losses has only intensified feelings of injustice and sorrow among affected farmers, who are grappling with profound grief and financial uncertainty.

We urge you to take immediate action to ensure that humane treatment is prioritized in the handling of livestock during disease outbreaks. It is imperative that this approach is supplemented with fair compensation mechanisms to support farmers emotionally and financially as they navigate the consequences of such tragic circumstances. The dignity of both the animals and the livelihoods of those who care for them must be upheld.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

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