Criticism of the small animal exchange: Chairman defends himself against PETA allegations!

Criticism of the small animal exchange: Chairman defends himself against PETA allegations!

In a recent dispute between the Hüttlingen small animal breeding association and the animal protection organization Peta, the association's chairman Klaus Kieninger is causing a stir. “They are against everything and everyone,” he said, expressing his incomprehension about the critical comments that Peta published on the traditional small animal exchange. This has been taking place in Hüttlingen for five decades and to this day enjoys a reputation as one of the largest small animal markets in southern Germany. The market attracts sellers and buyers from various counties, including Ostalbkreis, Heidenheim and Schwäbisch Hall, and is held on the second Sunday of each month, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. This is done to protect the animals from the midday heat, which can often be uncomfortable in the summer.

Kieninger makes it clear that all animal welfare requirements are adhered to. There is a corresponding permit from the veterinary office of the Ostalbkreis district office. "We have specific requirements for sellers to ensure the welfare of the animals at all times. This includes, among other things, sufficient water and food supplies as well as enough space in the transport containers," explains Kieninger. The design of the outdoor area also contributes to the animal welfare-friendly implementation of the market: parasols are set up to protect the animals from direct sunlight. The event is organized in close cooperation with the veterinary office, which regularly monitors compliance with the requirements.

Regular checks and adjustments

Especially when temperatures are high, the event ends early in order to protect the animals as best as possible. Approval for the small animal exchange is applied for every year and checked to ensure compliance with animal welfare and animal health requirements. Kieninger emphasizes that stress for the animals is minimized by preventing animals from being removed for advertising purposes and visitors from reaching in.

Peta had tried to ban the small animal exchange in the past, but the organization never contacted the small animal breeding association to make its criticism heard. There is a deep misunderstanding here; Kieninger is convinced that Peta does not correctly assess the reality of the event. “There are so many measures that we implement to ensure the welfare of the animals,” is his powerful message.

Overall, the small animal breeding association remains optimistic and continues to rely on the support of the region. “The market is an important meeting place for animal lovers and offers a platform for exchanging information and marketing animals,” sums up Kieninger and hopes for a lively visit on the coming market days.