PETA sounds the alarm: animal cruelty uncovered in Aichach-Friedberg!

PETA sounds the alarm: animal cruelty uncovered in Aichach-Friedberg!

In the Aichach-Friedberg district, a PETA complaint against a farmer is causing a stir. The animal rights organization responded to anonymous reports about suspected animal welfare conditions in cattle farming. According to reports from Mercury Photos were published showing cows tied to short chains in tight conditions. Some of these animals are obviously in poor health and are suffering from diarrhea due to inadequate nutrition.

The cattle's barren environment is equally alarming. They have to live in their own feces, and the lying areas consist only of rubber mats without bedding. The animals' claw health is questionable, while young animals are penned in narrow pens that separate them from each other. Other grievances were pointed out in the ad: The cattle have been kept tied up for several years, which has led to injuries caused by the fixing chains.

Legal situation and tethering

Tethering is a controversial topic in Germany, which is also discussed Animal Rights Blog reported. PETA has already filed over 50 complaints against owners of cattle kept in this way. However, the Munich I public prosecutor's office has rejected the criminalization of this practice because the animals have access to food and water and can at least lie down or sit up.

The reality, however, is different: Cattle cannot carry out their natural behavior when tied up, such as turning in circles or defecating. Around 11% of cattle in Germany, or around 1.1 million animals, are housed in tethered housing. Almost half of them live under these conditions all year round, which severely limits the animals' basic needs.

Animal protection and criticism of tethered farming

Tied farming is often classified as contrary to animal welfare. The German Animal Welfare Association also comments on this. The Animal Welfare Association highlights that even seasonal tethering, where cows are given freedom for 90 to 120 days, is problematic. Conversely, these animals spend almost 245 days in the stable on a chain, which calls into question the suitability of this form of husbandry. Without legal requirements regarding the minimum size of exercise areas, the conditions are often inadequate.

PETA is calling for an immediate end to tethering and has drawn up an exit plan for farmers. The pressure on politicians is growing, especially since the coalition agreement for 2021-2025 stipulates the end of this form of attitude. Despite the existing criticism, the situation remains intolerable for many cattle, and it is clear that there is much need for action to protect the rights of these sentient individuals.