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Ban live pigeon shoots

I am disappointed our Legislature has not yet outlawed live pigeon shoots.

These shoots are blatant cruelty to animals, just like dogfighting and cockfighting, both of which legislators had the sense to outlaw years ago.

There is no reason that participants can’t shoot clay targets instead. The majority of Pennsylvanians care about the treatment of animals. Independent statewide polls have shown Pennsylvanians support ending live pigeon shoots.

I know firsthand how cruel these are because I have witnessed them. The birds are rounded up illegally, often in New York City where they are protected. They are transported without food and water and may not be fed at all before they are used in these contests. They are launched mechanically in a weakened state and shot so the participants can gamble on the outcome.

Over half are not killed immediately. Some escape into local neighborhoods. Some die a slow, painful death. Some have their necks rung by very young trapper boys and girls.

A statewide ban is in order. I urge the Pennsylvania Legislature to act to pass SB 510 to finally end this senseless cruelty.

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