Several groups are actively campaigning to stop the barbaric practice of
horse fighting. In this cruel practice, that some actually call sport, horses are corralled and forced to fight each other. The horses suffer severe injuries and do not receive any veterinary care. Often, horses that are badly injured (or killed) during the fight are slaughtered and fed to the crowd:
WatchChildren are allowed to watch this barbaric practice, that passes for family entertainment in some parts of the world. In the Philippines laws exist to protect animals against this type of cruelty. However, despite this, the practice continues, with officials turning a blind eye and even offering prize money in some cases. Some of these events are even televised.
As human beings we have a duty of care to the animals that we take responsibility for. Several animal welfare groups are campaigning to end the brutal practice of horse fighting. The WSPA is asking people like you and I to support their efforts by writing to embassies of the Philippines in our respective countries.
You can view the WSPA's online campaign to end horse fighting
here. The Network for Animals campaign asks people to send a letter directly to the Mayor of Davao City, the largest city on the island of Mindanao and the economic hub of the area. You can view the Network For Animals online campaign to end horse fighting
here.
We the undersigned believe horse fighting and the inhumane slaughter of horses is cruel and therefore unacceptable. We are disappointed that the Philippines animal welfare legislation is not being upheld, allowing these illegal fights to continue.
We will not consider visiting the island of Mindanao or encouraging others to do so until the laws preventing horse fighting are fully enforced. We would like to know what the government of the Philippines intends to do to address this issue?
Thank you for taking the time to read this short letter. We look forward to hearing news of your response to our concerns.
