PETA Asks Floridians to Skip Live-Animal Raffle

Community Speaks Out Against United Way's Plans to Give Away a Cow 

For Immediate Release:
October 5, 2011

Contact:
Kristin Richards 202-483-7382

Mulberry, Fla. -- After receiving numerous calls from community members who are concerned that the Mosaic Company plans to raffle off a live cow to benefit United Way of Central Florida, PETA has sent a letter to the organization with an urgent request that it cancel the contest. In the letter, PETA explains that cows are sensitive, affectionate animals who feel pain and fear and that raffling animals for slaughter sends the message that cruelty to animals is acceptable. The group is urging Mulberry-area residents not to participate in the raffle.

"Raffling off a live cow for slaughter goes directly against United Way's mission to 'advance the common good,'" says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "We're sure that the Mosaic Company can find clever ways to raise funds for the United Way without promoting cruelty to animals."

Cows are curious, clever animals who form complex relationships with one another and who mourn the deaths of their loved ones. At the slaughterhouse, they are shot in the head with a captive-bolt gun, hung up by one leg, and taken to the killing floor where their throats are cut and they are skinned and gutted. Some cows remain conscious throughout the process.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.