Support Ojai In The Battle Against Torture Animal Breeding
1,517 signatures toward our 30,000 Goal
Sponsor: The Animal Rescue Site
Join Ojai in ending the cruelty of torture breeding and ensure a compassionate future for all animals by taking immediate action today.
The city of Ojai has taken a monumental step in protecting our beloved pets by becoming the first U.S. city to ban torture breeding. This historic ordinance halts the cruel practice of breeding animals to possess extreme physical traits that cause lifelong suffering1.
Understanding Torture Breeding
Torture breeding, or "qualzucht" in German, involves the deliberate breeding of animals to exhibit exaggerated physical features detrimental to their health and well-being. This practice primarily targets specific dog breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Dachshunds, which suffer from respiratory issues, spinal disorders, and other debilitating conditions2. These practices prioritize superficial aesthetics over the genuine health and happiness of our animal companions.
Beyond companion animals, torture breeding extends to farm animals. Selective breeding for performance traits in dairy cattle, beef cattle, poultry, and pigs leads to severe health issues. These include udder infections in dairy cows, skeletal anomalies in beef cattle, and joint deformities in broiler chickens, among others3.
The Reprehensible Consequences
The ethical implications of torture breeding are profound and heartbreaking. Animals bred for these extreme traits endure chronic pain, reduced lifespans, and a diminished quality of life. French Bulldogs struggle to breathe due to their flattened faces, leading to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, while Dachshunds suffer from intervertebral disc disease, often resulting in paralysis or death2.
"This suffering is as severe as that inflicted by physical abuse, and Ojai has made the right decision in choosing to no longer tolerate it," said Emma Milne, founder of Vets Against Brachycephalism4
Ojai Leads the Way
In a historic move, the city of Ojai, California, became the first in the United States to ban torture breeding. The Ojai City Council, led by Mayor Betsy Stix, adopted the Companion Animal Protection Ordinance. This law prohibits the breeding of animals with deformed bodies and extreme features that cause lifelong suffering4.
"Our companion animals are cherished members of our families and our communities, so I hope that this inspires other cities around the country to adopt companion animal protection ordinances of their own," said Mayor Stix5. Her leadership has positioned Ojai as a beacon for animal welfare advocates across the nation.
A Global Movement
Ojai's ordinance aligns with international efforts to curb torture breeding. Countries like Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland have implemented similar laws1. These nations recognize the severe health impacts of extreme breeding and have taken legislative steps to protect animal welfare.
Ojai's successful implementation of the torture breeding ban sets a precedent for other cities and states. Advocacy groups are pushing for similar legislation nationwide. Their efforts aim to educate the public and influence policymakers to prioritize animal health over superficial breed standards.
The time to act is now. By signing our petition, you support Ojai's ban on torture breeding and help inspire other cities across the country to adopt similar ordinances. Your voice can drive the change needed to protect countless animals from suffering and ensure they lead healthy, happy lives.
Join us in this crucial fight for animal welfare. Sign the petition today and be a part of creating a compassionate future for all animals.
- Sheila Goffe, ShowSight Magazine (17 October 2024), "Torture Breeding: The Dangerous New Threat to Our Breeds."
- Jess Thomson, Newsweek (11 April 2024), "Dachshund, French Bulldog Breeds Suffer From 'Torture Breeding’."
- Four Paws in US (23 August 2024), "Torture Breeding of Farm Animals."
- Wes Woods II, Ventura County Star (24 October 2024), "Ojai becomes first U.S. city to ban torture breeding of animals."
- Ara Oliver, PUBLICATION (22 October 2024), "Huge Win! Ojai Becomes First American City to Ban ‘Torture Breeding’ of Cats and Dogs."
The Petition:
To the mayor, city manager, and city council members of the City of Ojai,
We, the undersigned residents and advocates for animal welfare, wholeheartedly support the City of Ojai’s groundbreaking decision to ban torture breeding. This pivotal ordinance marks a significant advancement in protecting our beloved companion animals from the intentional breeding practices that inflict unnecessary suffering and compromise their health and well-being.
Torture breeding, characterized by the deliberate selection of extreme physical traits, has long subjected animals to chronic pain, debilitating health issues, and diminished quality of life. By enacting this ban, Ojai has demonstrated unparalleled compassion and humanity, prioritizing the welfare of animals over superficial aesthetic preferences. This act of kindness reflects our community’s commitment to ethical treatment and sets a powerful example for others to follow.
Compassion and humanity are essential in addressing the moral responsibilities we hold towards the animals that enrich our lives. Ensuring that our companion animals live free from suffering not only enhances their well-being but also fosters a more empathetic and humane society. Ojai’s leadership in this initiative underscores the importance of making informed, compassionate choices that honor the inherent dignity of all living beings.
We urge the City of Ojai to continue championing animal welfare by maintaining and strengthening this ordinance. Furthermore, we encourage Ojai to share its success story with other cities across the nation, inspiring them to adopt similar companion animal protection ordinances. Together, we can create a nationwide movement that prioritizes the health and happiness of our animals, ensuring that no pet has to endure the consequences of torture breeding.
By taking these decisive actions, Ojai is paving the way for a brighter, more compassionate future for all animals and the communities that cherish them. Let us unite in support of this vital cause, advocating for policies that guarantee a better, healthier life for every companion animal.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication to animal welfare and for setting a commendable standard for cities nationwide.
Sincerely,
