Upward Trend in DIY Backyard Slaughter

Illegal backyard animal enclosure

Two weeks ago, we posted an important alert on our Facebook page concerning the growing trend of DIY backyard animal breeding and slaughtering. Thanks to our friends at Neighbors Opposed to Backyard Slaughter (NOBS), this alarming trend is not going unnoticed and they are demanding city officials do something to stop it.

NOBS recently announced the results of a flash poll—with support from FARM’s Sabina Fund—that found a majority of Oakland, California residents are against the idea of a neighbor breeding, confining and slaughtering animals.

Over 60% of registered voters in areas most impacted by animal farms said they would prefer to live in a neighborhood without animal farms. This is a good sign for nonhuman animals because Oakland is at the cutting edge of the urban farming movement—the attitudes and inclinations of those in Oakland are likely reflected elsewhere. If people in Oakland who are directly confronted with the reality of the production of meat, dairy and eggs would rather not see animals harmed, there is an opportunity to introduce them to compassionate alternatives.

Oakland has already proven that creating new rules to support the growing of fruits and vegetables has a positive impact on public health and alleviates hunger by empowering residents to “grow their own.”

But we can take it a step further. By supporting residents of Oakland and other major metropolitan cities considering similar urban agriculture ordinances, animal advocates can educate city officials to make policies that provide access to more healthful foods, and are more compassionate toward animals at the same time.

When awakened to the suffering of farmed animals—whether in a backyard or factory farm—the majority of people can and do make the choice to stop the suffering.

NOBS hopes to use the poll results as a starting point for a conversation with Oakland leaders and the community about some of the very real hazards related to the breeding, keeping, and killing of animals. NOBS would also like to continue working with the city’s planning department to help more Oakland residents grow food while protecting people, animals, and Oakland’s sense of community. For more information on backyard slaughter, please check out NOBS’ website.