Articles:
On Our 40th Anniversary, an Extraordinary New Chapter Begins
From Animal Issues, Volume 38 Number 4, Winter 2007
The Animal Protection Institute has never been afraid to do the right thing when it comes to helping animals. Fighting animal cruelty, suffering, and neglect, requires courage and vision.
In this issue we announce probably the most visionary step in our history. In a move that redefines the animal protection movement, API has joined forces with Born Free USA to become Born Free USA.
A Life Sentence: Primates as “Pets”
As our members know, A Life Sentence, the Animal Protection Institute’s 2006 investigation into the private ownership of exotic animals, has provided disturbing insight into the keeping of these animals as “pets.”
Uniting for the Animals
The Animal Protection Institute is proud to announce the formation of the California Animal Association (CAA), dedicated to represent the interest of animals at the California State Capitol.
CAA is a coalition of 17 local, state, and national animal advocacy groups representing more than 275,000 Californians. API is a founding member of this association and, as is represented on the Board of Directors.
Zoos Aren’t Sanctuaries
API is pleased to bring our readers this Guest Commentary by Craig Brestrup, Ph.D., a Board Member and former Executive Director of TAOS (The Association of Sanctuaries).
The August issue of Communique, the official magazine of the American Zoo & Aquarium Association (AZA), featured an article entitled “What’s in a Name? Zoo vs. Sanctuary” by Michael Hutchins, Director of the AZA Department of Conservation and Science.
API, Legislation, and You
Not long ago, an animal advocate contacted API for advice. Like many people, the caller was deeply troubled by the mistreatment of animals in circuses, and wanted to take action. She wasn’t exactly sure what she could do, but was considering trying to get her home state to pass a law restricting the use of wild animals in circuses and traveling shows.
More Beautiful Wild
Wild at Heart: Birds in Captivity
“A forest bird never wants a cage.” — Henrik Ibsen, 1828–1906
Even when bred in captivity, exotic birds cannot properly be considered domesticated animals. They are the native species of other countries whose inherent behavioral and physical needs remain intact, even when they lose their freedom.
What’s Wrong with the Circus?
The circus is coming to town! This familiar phrase conjures vivid images of amazing acrobats, capering clowns ... and exotic animals. Unlike the human performers who choose to work in circuses, however, exotic animals are forced to take part in the show. They are involuntary actors in a degrading spectacle, forced into an unnatural life.
Big Cats, Big Trouble
As API members and supporters, know, we’ve actively campaigned to improve the lives of captive exotic animals for many years. In fact, API is widely recognized as a leading expert on the issue.
