Horse Slaughter Houses Soon to be in Montana

A federal bill in Montana might allow for the state to build horse slaughter plants.

All that is needed for it to pass is the signature of Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer. In the event that this bill is passed, the first U.S. horse slaughter houses would be built; many horses would be brutally killed there for human consumption.

Here is a letter I sent via email to the governor expressing my discontent in this proposed legislation. I hope that my letter motivates you to do the same.

You can send him a quick note, through Montana's Official State Website, urging him to veto horse slaughter bill #HB 418.

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Governor Brian Schweitzer,

Although I live in New York City, I am greatly concerned about legislation that might allow the United States' first horse slaughter houses to be built in the great state of Montana. It would be very disturbing if state legislation allowed for such majestic creatures to be brutally killed for human consumption.

For over 4,000 years, horses have served man tirelessly: providing transportation, labor, entertainment, and even companionship. "Of all the animals on Earth, the horse has probably most closely shared in man's adventures and has been most intimately allied with his progress." (Britannica Encyclopedia)

We are taught from a young age to respect and love horses. As children we are taken either horse back riding or on school trips to farms, where we can admire and feed them. Most of us can reflect back on the nostalgic memories of riding the extravagantly decorated "horses" on the carousel. It is why we associate horses with the fondness of our childhood recollections.

As a culture, we claim to love horses yet there are public officials willing to disregard their service and then allow for them to be served on plates; it can be seen as barbaric to say the least.

Most Americans are disgusted by the thought of consuming canine meat. Although some cultures eat it, our culture disapproves of such practices. The reason is that we view dogs, as well as cats, as our companions. To make a similar point, horses have been just as loyal in their servitude. So why would we consider eating horse meat?

The ASPCA and other organizations are there to prevent the abuse or slaughtering of dogs, whether for their meat or any other reasons. So tell me, who is going to protect the horses???

I sincerely hope that you protect them... by vetoing horse slaughter bill #HB 418.

-- A .Torres