Articles and Letters
Letter to the Editor about Donkey Basketball
November 12, 2007
Editor
Leader-Herald
Gloversville, NY 12078
Letter to the Editor:
Johnstown High School’s International Club has
scheduled donkey basketball for next Monday night; we should discourage
this activity due to the inhumane treatment of the donkeys and the
potential dangers to spectators and participants.
Some may be unaware of how abusive this “sport” is for
donkeys, shipped nationwide, spending the majority of their lives in
cramped trailers, traveling from one event to the next. Confined in tiny
transport cages, they endure constant stress and often suffer from
temperature extremes and irregular feeding and watering. Adding to the
demands of travel, being handled by strangers is highly distressing for
the donkeys, experiencing fear, frustration, and other stresses for
nothing more than a few hours of mere entertainment. Animals have been
kicked, pulled, shoved, hit by badly thrown balls and otherwise abused,
as well as having their food and water withheld by handlers to prevent
defecation and urination on the gym floor.
Human health and safety issues are growing concerns
for those who contract with animal exhibitors. Those riding the donkeys
may be overweight for these small animals; therefore, the potential for
injury is great. The stress and unnatural living conditions for animals
used in traveling acts makes them extremely vulnerable to illness,
disease, and unpredictable temperaments. They may lash out in
frustration or fear, causing injury to participants or bystanders.
Donkey basketball is an act opposed by most animal
protection organizations in the country. What lesson is this for
students? Why not emphasize humane education with example set by adults
treating animals with dignity and respect.
If fundraising is the issue, students can conduct car
washes, talent shows, silent auctions, rummage sales or bake sales. Why
not consider alternatives to using and abusing donkeys, such as a
basketball game between current participants and local celebrities?
Respectfully,
Shemirah Brachah
Michelle, Arne, Megan and Axel Johnson
Members of the Board of Directors
The Vegan Venue, Inc.
Be compassionate…go vegan…become passionate…go vegan…
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