Win A Warped Tour Prize Pack! July 31, 2009

Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 234 ) | TrackBack

I hope everyone is having an awesome time on Warped Tour like we are! Last Friday I told you about all the bands who have been signing our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts petition on the tour in support of our campaign, and this week it's really no different! Check out the awesome bands who showed their support this week ...

There For Tomorrow showing some love.


The lovely ladies in Millionaires with their tees!


TV/TV showing their broken hearts.


Black Tide showing support for ATBH.


We <3 Dance Gavin Dance!


A Skylit Drive holding it down.


Civet: Prettiest animal-friendly ladies on Warped? I think so.


Innerpartysystem shows us how they feel about animal testing.


Click on the image above to see the band's petition signatures!

There's not much better than a crucial hang out sesh with your friends set to good music—what more could you ask for? Well, I suppose you could ask for a sweet prize pack containing Warped Tour goodies, right? That's why we're giving you the chance to win one! For your chance to win a Warped Tour prize pack featuring a There For Tomorrow CD, a Civet CD and vinyl (!!!), and a Glamour Kills "Animal Testing Breaks Hearts" shirt, leave us a comment with your favorite band out of the bands above on Warped and your t-shirt size. One winner will be chosen at random. Entries must be received by August 14, and winner will be notified by August 21.


P.S. Join all of the bands above and sign our petition letting the world know that testing on animals is wrong by clicking here.

Birds and Breakin' Hearts July 31, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 0 ) | TrackBack

Hey yo!

This week we have been reaching out to people all over the country about the brutal practices of animal testing and McDonald's vicious treatment of chickens!

It's hard to believe that Warped Tour 2009 is half way over; it seems like it just started. We've spent the past week in the hot and humid South. It's been boiling in North Carolina, Florida, and Georgia, and we were right in the middle of it. Hey someone's gotta tell folks about the painful and torturous tests that are inflicted on millions of rats, bunnies, and mice every year in cosmetic testing facilities. We're proud to brave the heat in order to get people to think more deeply about the products they use and just how those products were deemed "safe for human use."

Come to our table when Warped Tour rolls into your town and we'll hook you up with free stuff! We've got cruelty-free shopping guides to help you find better cosmetic and body care products for you and the safety of our animal friends. The DVDs at our table feature such bands as Rise Against, Cobra Starship, and Chiodos talking about a variety of different animal rights issues that mean something to them. Of course, we also have our stickers! Everyone seems to love our stickers and even love putting them on their phones, hats, and faces. As long as you guys are spreading the word and promoting animal rights ... we'll continue to provide you with stickers! Deal?!




At our hometown show in Virginia Beach we even had our good friends Anti-Flag stop by to do a signing at our table!


I'm out for now! We're heading North into Cincinnati, Detroit, and Chicago, so keep an eye open for us! I'm going to let Paige finish this baby off ...

This week we hit up LA, Chico, Seattle, Edmonton, and Calgary with the 10 for 10 tour talking to hardcore fans about the routine cruelty McDonald's practices on chickens, like being scalded alive in feather removal tanks. Our new pals from California, hardcore band The Ghost Inside, had some members sign the petition.


And Justice, singer of Trapped Under Ice rocked a McCruelty sticker during their set in Calgary.


We also made some new friends and visited with some old ones stopping to get some amazing vegan donuts along the way in Seattle!


Keep a look out for us the rest of the summer and sign our petitions to help!

- Joey and Paige

Free Stuff Friday: Go Max Go Candy Bars! July 31, 2009

Posted by Tiffany Wright | Permalink | Comments ( 265 ) | TrackBack

Got a sweet tooth? Then you don't want to miss out on these Go Max Go candy bars. This brand new line of chocolate bars from Go Max Go are not only vegan, they're amazingly delicious too! And we've got THREE variety packs to give away this week. Each variety pack contains a Jokerz, Twilight, Mahalo, and Buccaneer candy bar.

Just so you know what kind of party-in-your-mouth you're in for ... The Jokerz bar is made up of layers of dry roasted peanuts, buttery-tasting caramel, and rich peanut nougat, wrapped in a delicious chocolaty coating. The Twilight "even more yummy than that Robert Pattinson guy" bar contains rich, fluffy, chocolaty nougat topped with a layer of thick, buttery-tasting caramel all wrapped up in a creamy, rice-milk chocolaty coating. The Buccaneer bar contains rich, fluffy, chocolaty nougat covered in a creamy chocolaty coating. And, my favorite (A.K.A the Mahalo bar), is a sweetened coconut candy bar topped with three whole dry roasted almonds and covered in a luscious chocolaty coating. Mmm Mmm Mmmmmm ...

For your chance to win this variety pack from Go Max Go, comment below with what your ultimate candy bar would consist of. Entries must be received by August 7. The three people with the most mouth-watering concoction will be chosen as our winners and notified by August 10.

Just so you know ... by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.

Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.

GOOD LUCK!

477 Years of Suffering July 30, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack
Hey everybody! Well, the mathemagicians over at PETA.org have crunched the numbers, to help us put the suffering animals face at the hands of the Ringling Bros. circus in perspective. Pretty astonishing stuff, eh?

477 years ...

animalrights.about / cc

That's the grand total of years that the 18 elephants used and abused by two of Ringling's touring units have been forced to endure beatings, chaining, and standing in cramped, sweltering boxcars. If you break that down, Ringling has tormented just these elephants—they have dozens more—for a total of 5,724 months, 24,804 weeks, or 174,105 days.

To put this in perspective, 1968, the year that Baby, Sarah and Banana—three of the elephants who are traveling with Ringling—were forced to perform for the first time, was the year that Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot. We've come a long way since then—or have we?

Ringling talks a big game about "elephant conservation," but the reality is that Ringling has actually removed more elephants from the wild than it has bred. Most of the elephants you see pirouetting and standing on their heads in Ringling performances at one point in their lives roamed vast jungles. You might call it Ringling's other dirty secret (besides that little issue of beating the @#$% out of elephants when they think nobody's looking).

Ringling's elephants are also dying faster than they are breeding: At least 26 elephants, including four babies, have died since 1992. Eight were under the age of 40 (which is just about half an elephant's natural life expectancy of 70 years). Oh, and those babies Ringling does manage to breed are only used to replenish its dying stocks—they will never be released in the wild—ever.

Pretty depressing, isn't it? Ringling must be using some kind of new math to make all that add up to "conservation."

Red Unit

Name	Year Acquired by Ringling	Year Born and Where	Length of Time with Ringling
Asia	1990	1968 in the wild	19 years
Tonka	1989	8/23/1983 in captivity	20 years
Luna	1989	1984 in captivity	20 years
Assan/Aussan	1968	1957 in the wild	41 years
Banana	1968	1957 in the wild	41 years
Sarah	1968	1957 in the wild	41 years
Toby	1972	1961 in the wild	37 years
Banko	1980	1976 in the wild	29 years
Siam	1980	1978 in the wild	29 years
Baby	1968	1961 in the wild	41 years
Angelica	1997	1997 born into Ringling	12 years

BLUE UNIT

Name	Year Acquired by Ringling	Year Born and Where	Length of Time with Ringling
Kelly Ann	1996	1996 born into Ringling	13 years
Sara	2001	2001 born into Ringling	8 years
Bonnie	1994	1994 born into Ringling	15 years
Juliette	1992	1992 born into Ringling	17 years
Minyak	1984	1966 in the wild	25 years
Karen	1969	1969 in the wild	40 years
Nicole	1980	1976 in the wild	29 years

Posted by Alisa Mullins

Helping Make a Difference One Vegan Pancake at a Time July 30, 2009

Posted by Lara Sanders | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack

Greetings from our nation's capital! Pop quiz: What do Michelle Obama and PETA have in common? No, it's not our toned biceps. Yes, we are both anti-fur, but that's not what I'm getting at either. It's that we both have volunteered with a great organization called Miriam's Kitchen. Miriam's Kitchen is a D.C. based nonprofit that provides free meals and support services to the homeless.

Since PETA is relatively new to the neighborhood, we wanted to pitch in and help out the community. And what better way to do just that than with vegan pancakes?

Today we had the great opportunity to cook and serve Miriam's first vegan breakfast in the history of the organization.

On the menu:

Fluffy vegan pancakes with strawberry topping and non-Canadian Maple syrup
Fruit salad
Cereal with soy milk
Hearty veggie chili and brown rice
Salad
Coffee with soy milk and orange juice

At first, the vegan breakfast was met with some skepticism, but the empty plates at the end of service spoke for itself. Here are some reviews of some of the people I spoke with:

"It's actually good!"
"I wish they had soy milk every day. I am allergic to cow's milk, and it tastes better."
"They're trying to makes us healthy up in here!"

Indeed we are.

Vote for Your Favorite Dumb Comment July 30, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 79 ) | TrackBack

People giving a "flying f**k" about chickens? What a shocking concept!

You know the drill: Names removed to protect the idiotic parties, and I've thrown some asterisks in the expletives. Enjoy!

1) Stop crying about animal rights and all that other nonsense. What needs to be your main focus is human rights. If you are concerned about these frongs being "tortured" in their tanks, then flush your gold fish and free your dog. Dumb f**ks.

2) peta is retarded a**holes who use wemon to get what they want but still if you want to fight 90% of the world who have ate meat for generations and will continue to kill and eat animals for many more generations you people are just retarded

3) Protein is in meat. Meat is very good for you, why dont you protest other animals from eating other animals. Get over it and keep you views to yourself. Your all not healthy if meat isnt in your diet, i love vegetables just as much as the next person but this is just stupid. Chicken is my favortie food and id love to meet you so i could eat it right in front of you all. mmmmmmmmmm ...idiots.

4) Chickens are delicious and why the f**k would you guys even bother making a ridiculous website about chicken conditions and general welfare. Like you have to go be f**king sh**ting me. Just because fall out boy and Serj are signing your time wasting petition doesn't mean we give two s**ts about chickens. KFC is delicious and will remain delicious. I write this in shear disgust that people would actually give a flying f**k about chickens and would like to waste money and make KFC more expensive.

5) ew i want some real, medium, blood still in the meat steak, and i want it now! no "fake" steak for me. if you have to incorporate fake meat into your diet to stop from being a stick, then we must be meant to eat meat. and personally, that frozen s**t looks disgusting anyway. instead of not eating meat as a "health" choice, go out and eat meat like God meant us to, along with veggies, milk, and lots of bread, dont eat many preservatives, frozen or fast food, no desserts, and work out 6 hours a day like i do, with track, football 2 a days and basketball, and whatnot. then you will see another shade of healthy- a better one. vegetarians are pushovers anyways, and the lack of meat makes their brains inferior, also. you need animal fat to help the brain, people. sorry to burst many bubbles.

Let me know your favorite by commenting below!

P.S. As always, you can check out past installments of dumb comments here.

Chicken Witness Protection? July 29, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 2 ) | TrackBack

Yeah, yeah, everyone loves lolcats—myself included. But we're also pretty stoked on lolchickens, or lolroosters—or anything else that really sneaks a little bit of animal rights into an unsuspecting web audience.

While I was feeding my cute cat addiction today and looking through some of my faves, I found this one from everyone's favorite website (other than peta2, of course!), ICanHasCheezburger.com!

Someone not so informed might just wonder exactly why a chicken might want to hide from KFC. I myself can think of a couple reasons, what about you?

Breasts, Not Animal Tests July 29, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBack

It's crazy to think that people are still artificially inducing diseases in monkeys, rats, mice, rabbits, cats, dogs, and other animals in an attempt to find cures for diseases in people. Their bodies are different than ours, plain and simple. One thing that is for sure the same, however, is the ability we all have to experience pain, loneliness, and fear.

Which is why it just doesn't make sense that animals often suffer and die in cruel and horrific tests in the name of breast cancer "research." Former National Cancer Institute Director Dr. Richard Klausner has stated, "The history of cancer research has been the history of curing cancer in the mouse. We have cured mice of cancer for decades, and it simply didn't work in humans."

Enter our "Breasts, Not Animal Tests" campaign! We teamed up with Keep A Breast to bring this campaign to the masses, and we couldn't be more excited! After all, prevention and early detection is the key to stopping breast cancer, so please—if you've got them—check your boobies! And for more ways to get involved, check these out:

• Add a "Breasts, Not Animal Tests" banner to your page.
• Play our Test on Breasts game.
• Buy our sweet new tank top and wear it everywhere you go.

And of course, don't forget to spread the word!

Boobs. Breasts. Ta-Tas. Whatever it is you call them, we want you to protect 'em, so remember: test your breasts—not animals!

How Can You Help Cure Breast Cancer? July 28, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 103 ) | TrackBack

liberationbc / CC

As someone who has lost both of her parents to diseases without a cure, I have an idea of what it's like to be frustrated knowing someone you love is sick and not knowing how what to do or how to help.

Breast cancer is a disease that affects millions of women and families every year, and for many of them, the only hope they have is in research being done to try to cure it. All hope is with charities and scientists—many of whom continue to fund animal testing.

The truth? The use of animals for breast cancer research is unreliable because of animals' significant genetic, cellular, and physiological differences from humans. Former National Cancer Institute Director Dr. Richard Klausner has stated, "The history of cancer research has been the history of curing cancer in the mouse. We have cured mice of cancer for decades, and it simply didn't work in humans."

We should all feel let down by this research and demand something better—an end not only to the cruelty of testing on animals but to the end of useless experiments that haven't helped cure cancer. Repetitive, expensive, cruel and absolutely selfish tests continue to go on while women are still dying of breast cancer every day.

Please take a minute and send one single e-mail to executives of the organizations that still fund animal research. Ask them to support scientifically sound and humane research that can stop breast cancer before it starts.

Taking the Seal Slaughter Message to the Ice (Rink) July 28, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 9 ) | TrackBack

I sure spent a lot of time falling down on the ice when I was younger and attempting to learn how to skate, but I certainly never saw anything like this on the ice:

This is a giant version of our Olympic Shame 2010 logo that PETA is planning on putting under the ice at several Canadian skating rinks. It's a message that'll be a little hard to miss for all the ice skaters out there: Stop the Seal Slaughter.

What do you think of the idea?

E.U. Finalizes Seal Product Ban—Canada Still Clueless July 27, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 5 ) | TrackBack

nationalpost / CC

Sooner or later, the Canadian government will realize that slaughtering seals just has to stop.

A few months ago, we told you about a vote by the European Union (E.U.) to end the sale of seal products. Well, now is the time to do a little victory dance, because the ban has just been finalized! According to the AP, Canada exported about $5 million worth of seal products to the EU last year, so this ban is another big blow to the country's annual seal massacre.

Since most of Europe has denounced the shameful slaughter of baby seals loud and clear, you'd think that Canada's government would finally get a clue and take action to end the annual bloodbath, right?

Think again.

Sorry to say, but once again, instead of enacting the ban that good people around the world—including a great many in Canada—are demanding, the Canadian government continues to pour all its efforts into keeping the massacre going. Until the last minute, it was still lobbying the E.U. to change its mind.

Without a doubt though, they can't ignore it any longer—with the E.U. refusing to pay for the blood of seals and consumers boycotting Canadian maple syrup, the seal slaughter is becoming less profitable for Canada every single day!

Rain? Nooooo Problem! July 27, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBack

Have you had a chance to hang out with us on Warped Tour yet? I spent a few days out on the tour with our incredible peta2 outreach crew and had a really great time. I talked to a lot of people about why animal testing breaks hearts before the doors opened, hung out with Street Teamers at the peta2 booth, and met up with some bands we work with including Anti-Flag and Escape The Fate.

There were also a couple times where it rained really hard, soaking just about anyone and anything not under a tent. Lucky for us (and some of you, too), our booth helped give people some shelter from the storms!

How many people can fit under our tent?


Fun with "Gabe Saporta" while hiding from the rain.


The rain didn't stop them from getting a cruelty-free shopping guide!

Hope everyone else had as much fun as I did!

Tell Brookstone to Stop Torturing Frogs! July 27, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 9 ) | TrackBack

chipchick / CC

One of the first things my mom taught me as a little girl was not to catch frogs and trap them in jars. While my best guy friends down the street loved to catch all kinds of insects and reptiles and trap them in small jars, boxes and cages—I would wait until they weren't looking to free them.

Along with learning my address, phone number and everything else a kid learns, my parents taught me compassion—because you can look at an animal trapped in a small space, and with a second of using your brain, realize that they would rather be free.

Recently PETA has been flooded with calls from others who were taught compassion, about Brookstone—yeah, the store that sells massage chairs, headphones and other high tech devices—selling dwarf frogs in tiny contraptions called "Frog-O-Spheres". Frogs are being confined in a few square inches of water, where they often slowly become poisoned by their own waste. These "toys" objectify animals as playthings and decorations—not as living animals who deserve freedom and respect.

Whether they're a dog, cat, mouse, gerbil, frog, fish or otherwise, animals don't belong in stores to be bought or sold. Just like any other animals sold in the pet trade, frogs being sold like objects at Brookstone are being bought by well meaning but misinformed people who will likely discard the "Frog-O-Sphere" toy, and frog who lives inside of it, when the novelty wears off.

Please tell Brookstone to immediately stop selling frogs in their stores now!

Leona Lewis Rescues Bunny July 24, 2009

Posted by Patricia | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack

fashionindie / CC
The lovely Leona Lewis has proved time and again that she has a heart of gold when it comes to her animal friends. She doesn't wear animals (and that includes leather!) or eat them, and this week she stopped a homeless man from making a meal out of a bunny.

After spotting the man with a tethered rabbit on L.A.'s famous Melrose Ave., the "Bleeding Love" singer asked what he intended to do with the rabbit. The man told Leona he may eat him, and that was all she needed to hear. She quickly gave him $100 to buy some food and, in exchange, he gave her the rabbit.

A friend of the singer's said, "She didn't think life on a lead was any way for a rabbit to live—then when he said he was going to eat it she knew she had to save it." Aw, see, heart of gold.

As for the bunny, well Melrose—named for the street where she rescued him—is living the good life at Leona's L.A. pad. I'm pretty sure he's the happiest bunny on the planet right now.

We're Taking Warped Tour By Storm! July 24, 2009

Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack

Ah, Warped Tour. What's better than being with your closest friends, seeing your favorite bands, having rad singalongs, and buying more merch than you can carry with two arms? Nothing? Yeah, I didn't think so. Despite the blistering heat, we're having a blast on the tour and I'm sure you are too! If you've already been to your local Warped date, I'm sure you've noticed that our "Animal Testing Breaks Hearts" campaign has really taken off. Both fans and your favorite bands alike are doing an awesome job spreading the word that product testing on animals is an unnecessary and cruel practice and needs to be stopped for good.

Check out these pictures we took of some of our favorite bands showing love for the campaign ...

Meg of Meg & Dia


Our friends in Saosin


SKSK with their new ATBH tees!


Big D & The Kids Table!


Jeremy of A Day to Remember

What else do all of the bands above have in common besides making awesome music? They all showed love for our campaign by also signing our petition!



Who has been your favorite band on Warped so far?



P.S. You can get in on the "Animal Testing Breaks Hearts" action by taking your own broken heart hand photo and posting it on our Facebook wall or making it your default on MySpace. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you sign our petition letting the world know that testing on animals is wrong and that you won't be part of it!

Free Stuff Friday: "The Cruelest Show on Earth" Tee! July 24, 2009

Posted by Tiffany Wright | Permalink | Comments ( 368 ) | TrackBack

This week, PETA revealed its undercover investigation into Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Video taken this year, shows elephants being beaten with bullhooks and whipped across the face and ears.

After watching this video, there's no denying these animals are under extreme physical and psychological stress. They desperately need your help. Get involved and show your support by letting everyone know the circus is no place for animals. To help you out, we're giving you the chance to win PETA's "The Cruelest Show on Earth" T-shirt. This week, we're giving away FIVE!

Enter for your chance to win by commenting below with what you'd say to someone who's planning on attending the circus. Comments must be received by July 31st. The five people with the most original comments will be chosen as our winners and notified by August 3rd.

Just so you know ... by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.

Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.

GOOD LUCK!

5 Questions with The Photo Atlas July 23, 2009

Posted by Megan Rondeau | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBack

I know I just posted a blog earlier this week urging you to check out new music from two of my favorite bands, but I'm back with yet another band for you! Think you can handle it?

The Photo Atlas is an electro/punk band from Denver, whose synth-driven dance songs are for fans of The Faint, The A.K.A.s, and Men, Women, and Children. Not only is their new EP, To Silently Provoke the Ghost, the perfect soundtrack for any house party, but two of the members are vegetarian! Drummer Nick Miles was kind enough to share his thoughts about being vegetarian for one of our beloved "5 Questions" blogs. Enjoy!

What prompted you to become vegetarian? Were there any bands or books that influenced your decision?
Nick: I was 16 at the time and just getting into a lot of punk rock. I grew up in Montana, so it wasn't exactly the normal thing to do. Bands like Rise Against and NOFX would come through on Warped Tour and their songs made me start questioning all kinds of things including animal rights.

What are some of your favorite vegetarian foods?
Nick: Falafel is my absolute favorite, as well as pita and hummus. However, when we're on the road Taco Bell is one of the ways I stay alive. Gotta keep it cheap, and with two non-vegetarians in the band it's a constant compromise.

Of all of the major animal rights issues, are there any issues that are particularly close to your heart?
Nick: All animal rights issues get me upset, but the one that is most ridiculous to me is people who wear fur. Someone who is far richer than I'll ever be who wears a dead animal as a coat or fashion accessory is like a slap in the face.

If a fan were to approach you with questions about how to get involved with animal rights, what advice would you give him or her?
Nick: First of all, worry about yourself. Question everything that you've ever been taught and try to understand why you do the things you do. You need to adjust your own lifestyle and understand why you're doing it before telling anyone else what they need to do. Of course check out all the resources that peta2 has available and try to learn as much as possible. It seems almost unachievable to cut meat out of your life at first, but it's been over 6 years so far for me and once you actually make the switch (to being vegetarian) you'll realize how easy it is.

What does The Photo Atlas have coming up this year that we can be looking forward to?
Nick: We should be spending plenty of time on the road. We'll be in New York for CMJ in October. Also, one of our songs will be on the new iPhone game called Tap Tap Revenge 3.

Head to the band's MySpace for tour dates and to purchase their new EP. And I have to admit that I'm on the same page as Nick when it comes to my favorite veg food—hummus and pita FTW!

We LOVE People Who LOVE Animals! July 23, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBack

Greetings from the dirrrty south!

The Rise Against tour has been HOT since I last checked in, literally. I'm not gonna lie—super hot weather makes me want to stay in my air-conditioned apartment and eat vegan coconut ice cream in front of the tube all day, but there were much more important things to be done. I was more than impressed to meet a few AMAZING people this past week who felt the same way and came out to donate their time, despite the heat, for the sake of the adorable rats and mice still being tortured in cosmetic testing labs. In Dallas, TX, we had amazing peta2 Street Teamer Alex come out for the second time this summer to help.

In Austin, TX, we had a brand new volunteer, Ashley. With no previous experience, she got over 300 people to agree that Animal Testing Breaks Hearts and that huge cosmetic and household product corporations should switch to the more sophisticated and humane non-animal methods of testing their products.


Last but not least, for the last ten days, we've had amazing PETA intern, Hannah, out with us on the road. She chose the triple-digit temperatures over the air-conditioned office, and for that the animals will surely benefit. She has dominated everyday!


Whether it be one hour or one year, your time is worth one million carrots to a bunny rabbit who never has to see the inside of a product testing laboratory!

So what are you waiting for? Start spreading the word now!

-Heather

What Have PETA's Campaigners Been Up To? July 22, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack

PETA's campaigners are a hard working bunch! They travel around organizing demonstrations all over the place to keep people talking about animal rights issues. We love to keep you up-to-date on what's going on, so check out a few pictures from recent protests that I wanted to share with you.

An "Unhappy Meal" demonstration in Egg Harbor, New Jersey:

A protest against the Canadian seal slaughter in St. Catharines, Ontario:


PETA's spin on our "Animal Testing Breaks Hearts" campaign in Wilmington, North Carolina:


Have you participated in an animal rights protest yet?

Students Take On Animal Abusers at Texas Tech! July 22, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 13 ) | TrackBack

CitizenHelder / cc

The Student Animal Legal Defense Fund group at Texas Tech University has joined PETA in asking the University Health Science Center to end the use of cats for painful and deadly medical training procedures on campus. The trainings involve forcing hard plastic tubes down the cats' windpipes, stabbing them in the chests with needles, and then killing them.

Want to know the real kicker though? As if all that weren't bad enough, the university is currently using cats purchased from a nearby animal shelter! So essentially, they're buying animals who are already homeless, and torturing them in cruel and useless procedures, even though humane alternatives are widely available and endorsed by leading medical organizations.

Well, the students have had enough of these disgusting practices dragging down their (otherwise respectable) university. The group president, Robyn Katz, even penned a letter for the student newspaper, calling out the university for their abuses. In the letter, they slam the school, saying "The institution's alleged commitment to animal welfare is betrayed by its actions. ... We can only hope that university officials are moved by their consciences before they are moved by our legal system."

Want to help the students' efforts? Click here to take action. You can also join the thousands of other students in the Facebook support group here, and don't forget to leave a comment below showing your support!

New PETA Investigation Shows Ringling Beats Animals July 22, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack

Hey everybody. Undercover investigations have long been at the foundation of PETA's efforts to speak out against cruelty to animals, and this latest example is no exception. Make sure to check out the footage below, and I'll let our Senior Research Associate, Dan Paden, explain the details ...
—Ryan

Today we released a new investigation inside Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus that shows workers on video as they beat and whipped elephants dozens of times in venues across the country. It's an investigation that I helped work on.

Once investigators capture video from an investigation, my job is to review all the footage and meticulously record the abuses and other notable findings. From that, I prepare condensed versions of the video for the public to view and draft complaints to officials, which in the new investigation into Ringling amounted to nine complaints to a total of 20 federal and state offices.

At times, reviewing so much footage can be tedious and extremely upsetting, but it's nothing compared to the relentless suffering that the animals who are used by Ringling are subjected to.

Most of the investigations that I work on involve farmed animals, in which the longest life span is about two years (for a pig used for breeding purposes). Her two years going from gestation crate to farrowing crate and back, over and over, are miserable, but her suffering comes to an end. For the elephants used and abused by Ringling, the suffering can go on for decades, and there's no end in sight—unless PETA and the public can convince the USDA to seize these majestic, elderly psychologically damaged animals.

Many of these elephants have not known anything close to a "natural" life since they were caught in Asia decades before I was born, but now the USDA has the chance to make things right by moving these animals to a sanctuary where they will be able to roam around the vast area that they need in order to be healthy and happy. Our brave investigator has armed the USDA with the information that it needs in order to make this happen and finally end these animals' decades of suffering.

It is an honor to work on all our investigations, which are the heart and soul of PETA, but it has been the highest compliment ever to be able to work with our investigator to document the heartbreaking plight of the gentle giants who are abused by Ringling and give them a chance to escape from their long years of torment and beatings.

Now that we have given the feds more than sufficient evidence to seize these animals, I hope we will finally be able to make history for elephants.

- Dan Paden, Senior Research Associate

Win the New Four Year Strong CD! July 21, 2009

Posted by Megan Rondeau | Permalink | Comments ( 61 ) | TrackBack

So far, I have to say that July has been a great month! I got to enjoy 4th of July fireworks and a vegan cookout, spend time on Warped Tour watching Hit the Lights and A Day to Remember, finally saw Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and today new albums from two of my favorite bands came out! Not only have Four Year Strong and Set Your Goals worked with peta2 before to stand up for animals, but they both had new albums hit stores today and are currently out on the road together in support of these releases.

This Will be the Death of Us is Set Your Goals' highly anticipated follow up to 2006's Mutiny and their first since signing to Epitaph Records. As a huge fan of this band, I can say this album was definitely worth the wait! Tracks like "Summer Jam" and "The Fallen" are destined to be summer anthems, while songs like "Look Closer" and "Gaia Bleeds (Make Way for Man)" have a much more serious message, and definitely one that can be applied to animal rights.

Worcester, MA, natives Four Year Strong have looked to the past for inspiration for their new album, Explains it All, which is a cover album of '90s songs. I may have been a baby of the '80s, but I grew up in the '90s and some of these songs definitely hold a special place in my heart! Who else could pull off covering Smashing Pumpkins, Third Eye Blind, and No Doubt?




If you haven't checked out these new jams yet, I suggest you get on it! And be sure to buy your tickets to the bands' co-headlining tour before they sell out! Comment with your favorite song from the '90s and two winners will be chosen at random to receive a copy of both bands' new CDs. Entries must be received by July 29 and winners will be notified by July 31.

Heads up, by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.

Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.

PETA's Position on Pit Bulls (Warning: Graphic Images) July 21, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 8 ) | TrackBack

Here at peta2, we receive lots of questions on how we feel about pit bulls and breed-specific legislation. To help clear up any confusion, here is our official position, reposted from PETA, on pit bulls: We're for 'em.

By "for 'em," I mean that we are for pit bull protection, for their happiness, and for treating them like dogs instead of like cheap burglar alarms, punching bags, or gladiators in perverted death matches.

Some pit bull fanciers out there seem to think that PETA is "against" pit bulls because we don't oppose breed-specific measures to address what is obviously a breed-specific crisis. Au contraire. If someone proposed a ban on breeding Labrador retrievers or Chihuahuas or poodles (you get the picture—any dog), we'd be for those too. That's because we don't think any dogs should be brought into the world as long as millions are dying for lack of homes in animal shelters and on the streets every year.

Millions, people. Millions of dogs just like the ones you share your homes with have to be euthanized because too many people fail to spay and neuter their animals and choose to buy from breeders and pet stores instead of saving lives by adopting from animal shelters. Wouldn't we be derelict in our duty if we didn't support laws that would alleviate suffering and reduce those numbers? If those laws saved just one animal from suffering a miserable life or a painful death, wouldn't they be worth it?

Pit bulls are often singled out by legislators because they are involved in so many attacks on humans and other dogs—as well as horrific cruelty cases. Our fieldworkers know firsthand just how frequently and mercilessly pit bulls are abused. These dogs are hands-down the most common victims of heartbreaking abuse and severe neglect that our caseworkers encounter.

I'm going to warn you—the following pictures, which were taken by our caseworkers of pit bulls they have helped, are graphic and disturbing. But I hope you'll steel yourself to look at them and decide for yourself whether or not these suffering dogs would have been better off if they had never been born:

This is Rikus.

PETA fieldworkers found him cowering in his doghouse with a gaping wound on one of his legs, exposing muscle and bone. His face was swollen to the size of a melon because of infected wounds that he had suffered during a dogfight.



Music was nothing more than skin and bones when we found him, chained, without food or water, and with nothing but a rusty pile of junk for shelter. He was shivering in freezing weather, trapped at the end of a heavy chain when we found him.



Music's ears were shredded and his body was covered with scabs and scars—an indication that he had been forced to fight with other dogs.



In December of last year, PETA staffers found Zoo—also skin and bones—chained and starving in Suffolk, Virginia.

Our vet determined that Zoo was 20 to 30 pounds underweight. Zoo tested negative for intestinal parasites—meaning that his emaciated body condition was because of starvation. He was also filthy, flea-ridden, and heartworm positive. We charged his callous owners with cruelty to animals. They pleaded not guilty in court, but the judge saw through their lies and convicted them. They were sentenced to 30 days in jail (suspended) and forced to pay fines of $250 each as well as restitution for Zoo's veterinary bill.



On New Year's Day, heartbroken PETA staffers discovered this angel, Hugo, dead inside his PETA-supplied doghouse. A necropsy report confirmed that Hugo had been starved to death—the only contents of his stomach were grass and orange peels. He had scars consistent with dogfighting and had a fractured rib that was the result of trauma. We worked with law enforcement officials to bring charges against the person who was responsible for Hugo's prolonged suffering and death. A judge sentenced the defendant to 120 days in jail and five years of probation during which time he is not allowed to inhabit a residence that has any animals in it.



Blackie was chained to an old carrier with no food or water. He was painfully thin, and his right rear leg had a compound fracture that had been left to rot for weeks.



For more information about PETA's position on pit bulls, check out our new pamphlet on the subject.

What's Vegan, Delicious, and Breathes Fire? July 21, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack

If you said vegan dragon cake, well, you'd be correct! Check out this completely awesome cake that Shanna Hawke (friend of peta2 staffer Paige) made for her son's birthday.

Don't you just love it? If this isn't a great way to get people to try vegan food, I don't know what is! Shanna is amazingly creative. Check out these other vegan concoctions she came up with.


Hi. I'm a ladybug, and I'm cute.


This choo choo train is headed straight for some bellies (Unfortunately, not mine).

Are you craving cake hardcore now? Here are a few delectable options for ya:

• Loco-Cocoa Snack Cake from PETA's Vegan College Cookbook
• Nintendo Power Cupcakes
• Pineapple Right Side-Up Cake

Do you make delicious looking vegan cakes, too? Or do you simply hope and dream someone will whip something up for you? Let me know below—I do a little of both!

"NYC Prep's" Vegan Cutie July 20, 2009

Posted by Patricia | Permalink | Comments ( 0 ) | TrackBack

Ace Showbiz / CC
Are all of you as addicted to NYC Prep as I am? I swear, Bravo's got me hooked! Every week, someone's either hooking up, getting dumped, or talking trash about someone else.

Here's the deal ... I missed a couple of episodes (I know, crazy!). So I got caught up this weekend, and thank goodness I did. Their dinner party in the "Virgin Talk" episode was nuts. I love that PC took it upon himself to put people on the spot.

It was cool that Taylor (my fave) told the rest of the crew she's vegan because she "can't eat an animal". And I was pleasantly surprised the rest of the group didn't make fun of her for what she eats. In fact, PC, the most calculating of the bunch, said if Taylor was a veggie burger, he'd eat her. Way to reel 'em in, Tay!

This Video Is Neat July 20, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack

Someone sent us this video last week. Looks like it's been around for a while, but it's new to me, and it's so neat that I had to show you, too!

Fits perfectly with our Meat's Not Green campaign!

What do you think of it?

I mean, I like peta2's Meat's Not Green video, but who can resist the combination of cartoons, environmental protection ... and ummmm farts ...

Y'all Ever Met a Monkey with a Texan Accent? July 20, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 7 ) | TrackBack

dawkinswatch / cc

OK, so imagine this situation. In a Covance animal testing laboratory, a group of monkeys are sitting in a cage, pacing back-and-forth like guys in a jail cell.

One monkey says to another (in monkey language, of course), "So where are you all from?" The monkey answers "Duuuude, I was raised in Southern California. I miss it. The waves there were sooo sick—it was totally badical." Another monkey chimes in, "If y'all think this place is bad, you shoulda seen the places I was locked up back in Texas. They ever send me back there, and they're fixin' for a fight."

THIS COULD ACTUALLY HAPPEN. (Well, sort of.) You see, studies have concluded that, like humans, monkeys can acquire regional accents based on where they live. According to the study, two large groups of Japanese monkeys were separated back in the '50s, and lived in separate regions since then. As such, they have two noticeably different accents.

Additionally, a recent study has concluded that monkeys can even recognize bad grammar. For example, monkeys can tell that the saying "ed-walk" is wrong, and that "walked" is correct. Presumably, they could also determine that "etarian-veg" is not the correct pronunciation of "vegetarian". Heck, I have relatives that aren't that evolved.

So what do you think, should people be allowed to test on animals that are clearly more intelligent than some of our (human) relatives?

Feeling Brave? July 17, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 7 ) | TrackBack

Jane Taylor

We at peta2 have long followed the relentless efforts of the bad-ass pirates at the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

As watchers of the top-rated Animal Planet show Whale Wars will attest to, these warriors will stop at nothing to spare whales and other marine animals from being brutally slaughtered—often risking their lives to do so. This season alone, their boat was almost destroyed by an iceberg, a crew member fell overboard, and there was an anthrax scare.

And yet, in the middle of all that, crew member Jane Taylor took the time to chat with PETA about what drives her. As fans of the show will also know, Jane recently announced that she'll be taking some time off from her life at sea, but according to our recent interview, she may be back sooner than you think...

You can check out the full interview here, but here are some highlights!

What animal rights issues are you most passionate about?
It was very difficult to decide where to focus my efforts, but I thought Sea Shepherd was the perfect place since I have skills for ship-handling, guts for action, and a heart for humanity.

Immediately, I would like to work on getting Sea Shepherd another ship to use down in Antarctica. But in addition to focusing on marine life, I will also be concentrating my efforts on ending vivisection—another arena of extreme cruelty to animals.

Whale Wars can be a pretty intense show. Have you ever had a moment where you thought you couldn't keep going? What made you persevere?
There was never a moment when I thought I couldn't keep going. All the action was extremely intense with lots of adrenaline going through everyone's blood. The action became very addicting, and when we had to leave the whaling fleet, it was very, very disappointing. I was not ready to leave. We definitely need more ships out there.

...

Can we look forward to a third season of the show?
Oh, yes. There is a third season. Sea Shepherd has just merged with Earthrace, a round-the-world, record-breaking trimaran, so I suspect that the tactics next year are going to be completely different. Anything could happen when you bring a boat that looks like a spaceship [Ryan's note: Check out this picture!!] down to the Southern Ocean!

Will you be on deck again?
Oh, I got so addicted to Sea Shepherd's campaigns that I want to go on all of them! Before the merge, I met Earthrace in New Zealand and loved the boat, so I will be trying out to crew on it. With Sea Shepherd Conservation Society's new popularity, there are so many new, interesting, skilled, and keen volunteers, so I'm not sure if I will be selected, but my fingers are crossed!


Pretty incredible, eh?

What do you think, would you have the guts to get out there and defend animals against abuse on the high seas?

Vegan Cookies and Warped Tour July 17, 2009

Posted by Megan Rondeau | Permalink | Comments ( 5 ) | TrackBack

Last week I took a little break from the daily grind of working in the office to head out on the road for a few days. I met up with our kick-ass tour crew on the VANS Warped Tour to check out some of my favorite bands and spread the word about our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts campaign.

As if hanging out with old friends, meeting great new people, and watching awesome bands everyday wasn't rad enough, in Montreal (which was amazing despite the rain!) one of our fabulous peta2 street teamers brought us homemade vegan chocolate chip cookies! What better way to make friends than with cookies?

Check out some bands who were more than happy to help demonstate that animal testing breaks hearts via tasty, heart-shaped treats!

Hit the Lights


Pat Thetic of Anti-Flag


Chris #2 of Anti-Flag


Westbound Train


Matthew of Madina Lake


Silverstein

If Warped Tour hasn't hit your town yet you can still enter to win tickets from peta2! And if Warped Tour has come and gone for you this summer, don't be sad, it'll be back next year!

Free Stuff Friday: Lick It! Ice Cream Book and Tote Bag! July 17, 2009

Posted by Tiffany Wright | Permalink | Comments ( 344 ) | TrackBack

Everyone knows summer time = ice cream time! And, this week, you have the chance to win Lick It! — the ultimate vegan ice cream recipe book. Author Cathe Olson fills you in on everything you'll need to make all of your ice cream favorites from fruity sorbets and gooey sundaes to creamy shakes and floats — no ice cream maker necessary! With over 100 pages of easy-to-make recipes, you just might be eating ice cream for the rest of the summer.

For your chance to win Lick It! and this super cute ice cream tote bag from Hollywood Mirror, comment below with your favorite summer treat. Entries must be received by July 24. The person with the most delicious comment will be chosen as our winner and will be notified by July 27.

Just so you know ... by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.

Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.

While you're waiting to find out if you're a winner, check out Olson's amazing recipe for fudge pops!

What You'll Need:

1 3/4 cups soy milk or other non-dairy milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pour the soy milk into a small saucepan. Whisk in the sugar and cocoa powder. Warm on medium heat until the soy milk begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Cool to room temperature. Poor into pop molds and freeze. (Makes 8 2-ounce pops)

Beat the Heat with Icy Treats! July 16, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 2 ) | TrackBack

It's summertime and the livin' is ... really hot! It's the time of year for a nice trip to the beach, a dip in the pool and ... icy treats! Beat the heat this summer with some Liz's Outrageous Pop Sticks (LOPS)! They're easy to make, don't cost very much, and will make this heat wave bearable. Now, grab some friends and let's get to work!

First, drive over to your local supermarket (Target or a Wal-Mart will work too) or ask the 'rents to take you there.

Second, pick out an ice pop mold like the one you see below. If they don't carry these, don't sweat it—you can use any small container, including a small thermos or a small plastic cup and just add an ice pop stick or a spoon!

Third, look for ingredients. This can include anything from old-fashioned orange juice to powdered drink mix. I chose to use one of my favorite drinks and also created chocolate pops by mixing almond milk and chocolate syrup ... yum ... If you're buying drink mix, you'll probably only need one packet (don't forget that some require sugar, which you can add to taste!). If you're making chocolate pops, then don't forget a container of chocolate syrup and one container of non-dairy milk (you can use soy, rice, etc.).

Fourth, go home and mix everything together that needs mixing. For my chocolate pops, I mixed 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup for every 1 cup of almond milk. Powdered drink mixes usually only require sugar and water and there are directions on the back but feel free to cut the amount in half! I personally used less than half the bottle of my favorite drink and half of the drink mix.

Fifth, pour everything into the ice pop mold!

Sixth, put them in the freezer and keep them there overnight. In the morning, take them out of the freezer and voilà—homemade icy treats! You and your friends will be the envy of sweaty people everywhere.

Send us a picture of you and your LOPS to us at StreetTeam@peta2.com and we'll award 500 points to your Street Team account!

Check out one of our awesome interns, Kelly, enjoying a LOP created by yours truly:



For the animals,
Liz

P.S. Remember that even though you've beat the heat, many dogs cannot and they can die from being overheated in locked cars—something to keep in mind this summer!

Vote for Your Favorite Dumb Comment! July 16, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 32 ) | TrackBack

I don't know about any of you guys, but I've certainly never called anyone who eats meat a "physicopat" ...

You know the drill: Names removed to protect the idiotic parties, and I've thrown some asterisks in the expletives. Enjoy!

1) so if i meat i am a physicopat pedofile killer?

2) I love Sea Kittens. They are so delicious when fillet and seasoned with capers and chili sauce, and then baked at 250 degrees for a half an hour. SOOO delicious. I have a sea kitten for breakfast every morning... actually, im going to go make myself some sea kitten this very moment. NOm nom nom nom.

3) You all are tools. Most of the things that you use every day, even with vegetarian practices, are made from animal products. See, plants are technically animals. They evolved from the same DNA molecule as the rest of us. Plants feel pain. They just can't scream. So, lets see how you get off not eating anything but vitamin supplements. Oh, wait, most of those use plant or animal based binders. I hope you can survive on a diet of nothing.

4) awww i love cupcakes made with baby chickens still inside the shell... But its ok because I only eat animals that once ate vegies.

5) I eats me to keep me goin on my anarchy punk ways. Animals are for foods i shoot them because its necisary to feed me and vegitables mostly suck unless with meat. Eat meat and well ballanced veggies and fruits and grains keep a person fit top shape for anarchy. Be anti Mc donalds for mutating chickens to have large breasteses. But me anti meat totaly.

Let me know your favorite by commenting below!

P.S. As always, you can check out past installments of dumb comments here.

Monkeys Need Your Help July 16, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 52 ) | TrackBack

You're probably all familiar with our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts campaign against product testing on animals, but let's not forget that animals are being experimented on elsewhere, too.

Did you know that the U.S. Army conducts a lot of animal experiments? The U.S. Army is currently injecting toxic drugs into live monkeys and bacteria directly into their eyelids! And records show that chemical and biological casualty care training exercises have caused monkeys' internal organs to burst.

It's probably more horrifying than you or I could ever imagine, so we're asking the U.S. government to limit funding to only non-animal experiments (there are plenty of humane ways to conduct research without torturing animals).

If you're a U.S. resident, please contact your representative today.

Thank you!

Win Harry Potter Movie Passes! July 15, 2009

Posted by Megan Rondeau | Permalink | Comments ( 74 ) | TrackBack

I'm not at all embarrassed to admit that I am a HUGE Harry Potter fan! I'm that girl who's read all the books at least twice, owns a Gryffindor t-shirt or two, and occasionally references Hogwarts and apparition in every day conversation. Obviously I've been anxiously awaiting the release of the sixth movie, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (in theatres today!), but what I'm even more excited about is introducing you to some of my new favorite bands!

These aren't just any bands, these are Wizard Rock bands. I know what you're thinking: "what in the what is Wizard Rock??" Wizard Rock bands are Harry Potter enthusiasts like you and I who took their fandom one step further, plugged in keyboards and picked up guitars to pay tribute to the wizarding world. I reached out to just a few of the many Wizard Rock bands to get their take on the role that animal rights plays in the Harry Potter series.

Here they are in their own words:
What are your thoughts on the treatment of creatures that are often discriminated against in the Harry Potter series, such as house-elves, centaurs, and werewolves?
The Moaning Myrtles: The issue of animal rights is one of many in the Harry Potter series that is reflected in our own world and I think it's really important for kids to read a series like this. The difference in the Harry Potter books is that many of these creatures are able to speak for themselves, where ours cannot, but they are still discriminated against. I'm glad that Rowling chose to focus so much on animal rights issues (and others that we also face) in her books, perhaps to show us what is wrong with our own world.

Many, if not all, of the students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry have companion animals. Whether owls, cats, rats, or toads, the characters all cherish their animals as part of their lives. Did you have any companion animals growing up?
The Whomping Willows: I've always had cats from the moment I was born—I think they add something very valuable to a household. They are an unconditional friend at the most difficult times.

Of all of the major animal rights issues, is there anything that you feel particularly strongly about and why?
The Parselmouths: I guess I would have to say that among all of the terrible problems out there, the issue that pulls at my heart-strings the most is the idea of pet abandonment. All animals deserve to be loved, but the idea of giving an animal a home and then taking that away from them is terrible.
The Moaning Myrtles: Ever since I was younger, I've always been stunned at the horrible things that are done with animal testing ... the convention that these studies can be done on animals without consequence is just messed up.
The Whomping Willows: I think the most important issue is really the preservation of natural habitats, because when ecosystems are destroyed, countless species are impacted.

If a fan were to ask you how to be better involved with animal rights, what would your advice to them be?
The Moaning Myrtles: Do your research! The best way to start fighting for any cause is to learn as much as you can about it. Thanks to the internet you can not only look up anything you want about animal rights or any other topic, but you can also find people who feel passionately about the same thing!
The Whomping Willows: Like with any other issue, the best thing to do is research local organizations and get involved with the one(s) that fit your personality and your particular goals as an activist.
The Parselmouths: Usually my first plan of action when I want to know how to do something is to look for information online, and naturally, peta2!

Of all of the memorable, heroic, and hilarious characters in the Harry Potter series, who is your favorite character and why?
The Parselmouths: Would now be a bad time to admit my favorite character is Draco? I always have a soft spot for the misunderstood bully. I just feel like Draco has such an interesting life and story.
The Moaning Myrtles: Snape is my favorite character. It's amazing what people are capable of doing for love, and it's incredible that Snape was able to do so much without taking any credit for it or ever being loved in return.
The Whomping Willows: Hermione Granger and Severus Snape. Hermione because she's a total bad ass, and Snape because he's one of the most complex and mysterious characters in the series.

As much as I love them all, I would have to say my favorite character is Dumbledore. Leave a comment with who your favorite character in the Harry Potter series is and why. The most convincing entry will be chosen to receive two free movie passes! Entries must be received by July 22 and the winner will be notified by July 24.

Heads up, by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy. Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions

peta2 Rocks at Festivals and Texts to Save Hearts July 15, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack

So, things have been CRAZY since I last checked in from the road. While the Rise Against tour was on a short break, we switched the style up a bit and tried our luck out at the hip hop festival, Rock the Bells, and the Hardcore tour, 10 for $10.

At Rock the Bells, we found awesome amounts of support for our McCruelty campaign asking McDonald's corporation to buy their chicken solely from slaughterhouses that use a less cruel method of slaughter called Controlled Atmosphere Killing (CAK). I mean, after we informed the crowd that their McChicken might've been the product of a fully conscious bird having his throat slit open before being thrown into a tank full of scalding water, how could they not sign?



10 for $10 was pretty intense. We did the first three dates of the tour in Philly, NYC, and B-More, some of the toughest cities out there. But, the response for animals was amazing! No matter how tough, everyone took a second to check out our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts campaign against the gratuitous, unnecessary, and cruel animal tests that some of the most widely distributed cosmetic and household product companies still perform. I'm sure it didn't hurt that we had one of our amazing peta2 interns, Rob, come out to work his magic for animals!




As I type, we are on the way to meet back up with the Rise Against tour in Dallas, Texas (I can't wait)! One question for you Cowboys—are you heartbreakers?? Let's hope not!

Now for Warped tour, it's all you Joey ...

What's up guys? We're still having just as much fun out here on Warped Tour as Heather and her crew are having at the multiple stops they're making. I've got some exciting new things to speak to y'all about. First off is our new text petition campaign. If you're at Warped this summer, look for signs or the big banner at our table telling you how you can sign our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts petition through text message. It's quick, easy and FUN!

Our table spot is a great place to pick DVD's (featuring bands like A Day to Remember, Chiodos and Rise Against, stickers and a shopping guide listing products that are NOT tested on animals. Another fun thing to do is head over here, and be our friends on the Warped Tour website!



Keep coming to the shows and showing your support guys! The animals need all the help we can give them!

See you at the next show ...

Joey and Heather

Hundreds Killed in Spain July 15, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 22 ) | TrackBack

all creatures / CC

As you may have heard, for the first time in nearly 15 years, a human died after being gored by a bull at this year's Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain.

Anybody have a guess how many of the bulls died this year after being gored by humans?

All of them.

Every year, all bulls who are sent charging down the narrow, winding streets of Pamplona end up in the bullring. We're not talking about one bull here. We're talking hundreds and hundreds over the course of 15 years.

Now, I'm no Alberto Einstein, but it seems to me that when a blood "sport" like bullfighting (or "bullstabbing", as I call it) revolves entirely around provoking and torturing animals, some humans are bound to get hurt too, or even die.

What do you think? Is this a fluke tragedy, deserving of sympathy for the human victim? Or is it the inevitable result of hosting a cruel event that routinely tortures and slaughters hundreds of animals?

peta2 <3's Bolivia July 14, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 9 ) | TrackBack

floridavoicesforanimals / CC

Once in a while it's a bit hard to stay confident that one day we will change the world for animals. Sometimes companies make it hard to be—but sometimes, whole countries give us hope—they do the right thing. They see something they know is wrong, and stop it.

Remember Bolivia? A few months ago, we told you about their trauma training exercises where dogs were being cut into and having their insides torn out. We told you, and the Bolivian government. Within a month, Bolivia's President Evo Morales banned the use of all animals in military exercises.

Now, the day has finally arrived when "It is forbidden to use wild and/or domestic animals in circuses throughout the country." in Bolivia. As far as we know, Bolivia is the first country in the world to enact such a landmark measure for animals abused in circuses.

With the passage of this new law, elephants, lions, tigers, horses, dogs, and all other animals who are forced to live in shackles or cages—and are routinely beaten into submission in order to perform unnatural circus "tricks"—will no longer be subjected to these cruelties in Bolivia.

And as if that weren't enough, PETA is now working closely with the Bolivian government on the country's first national animal protection framework law. If the measure is adopted, it would make Bolivia a global leader in animal welfare.

On behalf of animals in Bolivia, muchas gracias to President Morales, Member of Congress Ximena Flores, and concerned citizen Ana Serrano Revollo for all their hard work in making this law prohibiting animal circuses a reality! And thanks to all of you, who continue to help show the world that you care!

Everyone Likes Looking At Pictures July 14, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 5 ) | TrackBack

Here are some pictures we recently received from amazing Street Teamers. I like them so much, I wanted to share these with you ...

I'm Scared Of Needles, Too!


Animal Testing Breaks Hearts


Meat's No Treat For Those You Eat
Which do you like best?

10 For 10 Tour: Win A Meet & Greet With BANE! July 14, 2009

Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 8 ) | TrackBack

When I first heard hardcore (Minor Threat or Bad Brains, anyone?), I fell in love with pretty much everything about the genre. The music was intense, the messages were positive, there were more vegetarians than any other music scene, and many were also straight edge. I no longer felt alone in my moral and ethical beliefs, and I had an army of kids behind me that felt the same way.

When I heard that peta2 was going to be sponsoring this summer's "10 for 10" Tour, I couldn't help but be excited. This "10 for 10" tour has a rotating lineup of some of the most legendary names in hardcore, and some newer bands that are getting hype too. These shows are bringing together different generations of hardcore fans under one roof in appreciation for the music and the scene—all for ten bucks. Shows like this are what makes hardcore great, and because animal rights has always been such a huge part of hardcore, it only makes sense that peta2 would be involved. Not wanting you to miss out on any of the fun, we want you guys to be involved too—that's why we're giving you the chance to win a "meet and greet" with a band that is listed as a favorite band by so many—BANE.

rockzoom / CC

If you and a friend would like a chance to win free entry and a meet and greet with BANE during the August 9th "10 for 10" date (Worcester, MA), leave us a comment with your favorite BANE song (mine is "Count Me Out"). One winner will be picked at random. Entries must be received by July 31 and winners will be notified by August 5th.

Just so you know ... by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy. Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.


Disclaimer: Remember, this contest is only involving the date in Worcester, MA on August 9th.
Rotating Lineup: Poison The Well, Madball, BANE, V.O.D., Terror, Vision, Crime in Stereo, War of Ages, Death Before Dishonor, Trapped Under Ice, The Mongoloids, The Ghost Inside, and This is Hell—check your local tour date for the exact lineup!

Travie McCoy Reppin' peta2! July 13, 2009

Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBack

Despite my love for hardcore and pop-punk, I can't help but give love to the Gym Class Heroes for putting out infectiously awesome tracks that make me want to shake it! Recently I came across a video and some photos of vocalist Travis McCoy being silly and reppin' peta2 at the same time. What's better than that? Check it out ...

Video from The Unbeaten Track

While Travis is typically a silly guy who's always cracking a joke, his "Unbeaten Track" project is anything but silly. For this project, Travis is embarking on multiple trips this summer to South Africa, the Philippines, and India to meet with young people who are running grassroots HIV and AIDS awareness projects. We love ya, Travie. Thanks for putting out good music, and having a big heart for both humans and animals alike.



P.S.: If you haven't already, check out our anti-fur PSA with Travis by clicking here!

One Minute Mission: IM Your Friends! July 13, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 9 ) | TrackBack

We know that you're trying really hard to get your hands on those free peta2 laminates, and what better way to do it than with our minute missions?

The next time you're on Facebook, MySpace, MSN Messenger, AIM, or any other site that lets you IM your friends—send them a message about our summer campaign, "Animal Testing Breaks Hearts," or our new Breasts, Not Animal Tests game! We'll give you 500 points for doing so! It's pretty easy—we promise, it only takes a minute!


Check out some suggestions below:

• "Are you a heartbreaker? Find out at http://breakshearts.peta2.com/?c=p2m100"



• "Animal Testing Breaks Hearts! Have you watched this video yet?! http://breakshearts.peta2.com/?c=p2m101"



• "Do you like boobies? Play Breasts, Not Animal Tests at: http://www.peta2.com/BreastsNotAnimalTests/game.asp?c=p2m102!"

Of course, you can use your own message too! Just copy it and send it to StreetTeam@peta2.com so that we can give you the 500 points.

peta2 Road Crew Goes After Warped Animal Testing Industry July 10, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 4 ) | TrackBack

Hey guys!

We've made it through another sweltering week of Warped Tour. This week we spent the majority of our time in Texas, and also some in Indianapolis and Pittsburgh. As the heat rose, so did our determination to speak to as many kids as possible.

We pushed through the weather to reach out to the Warped crowds about how millions of bunnies, rats and mice are tortured endlessly in the name of cosmetic and household product testing. It's important for consumers to know what happens to animals trapped in cages in testing labs so that new brand of lipstick can come out. For example, chemicals may be dripped into bunnies' eyes—all for cosmetics. One way you can help stop this cruelty is by checking out our tent at the Warped show in your hometown. If Warped isn't coming to your hometown, you most certainly can still help by heading here.

I'm about to lead my team out into another nonstop Warped show, but before I do I wanted to remind you to definitely find our booth at the show in your hometown. We've got tons of free stuff to give you! Look for our "Free DVD" sign and you will get something free. Can you guess what that could be? Hah!


If you're ever in Memphis, TN, make sure to stop by Graceland, Elvis Presley's home. There's a graffiti wall and there may or may not be markings from a certain "peta2 Outreach Crew." Who knows (wink, wink)?


Have a great week and hopefully we'll see you soon.

Keep rockin'!

Joey

McCruelty, Tigers, and Michael Jackson...Oh My! July 10, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 14 ) | TrackBack

In the past week, we've been front and center—from coast to coast! Ready to go on a cross-country trip? Here we go!

Starting in the Big Apple, activists staged a fun "Tiger's Revenge" demonstration outside of a Ringling Bros. Circus show in New York's legendary Coney Island. As the locals would say, "Cruelty to animals? Fuggedaboutit."

Venturing out to the Windy City, we also grabbed media attention in Ronald McDonald's home state, by projecting our message about McCruelty onto the side of buildings all over Chicago! I can only imagine the horror on the face of a McDonald's executive, as they walk to dinner on a warm Illinois night, only to see this ...



Finally, our activists drew loads of attention in Hollywood, bringing our meatless message to the mourning masses at Michael Jackson's memorial (I like alliteration—so sue me). As we've mentioned time and time again, there's no better way to stay fit and healthy than to cut out animal products. Just ask this sequinne-gloved Lettuce Lady!



So which one's your favorite? I personally think the McCruelty projections are brilliant. Leave your comment below!

Free Stuff Friday: Skinny Bastard! July 10, 2009

Posted by Tiffany Wright | Permalink | Comments ( 229 ) | TrackBack

We all know Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin's New York Times best-seller Skinny Bitch. It was the sexy twosome's bold, laugh-out-loud girl's guide to eating better and getting skinnier. But Rory and Kim know some guys have a little junk in the trunk too. So they couldn't help but bring you Skinny Bastard — the hysterical, in-your-face follow up that helps guys go from roly-poly to HOLY-MOLY!

For your chance to win a copy of Skinny Bastard, comment below with your favorite way to get in shape. Comments must be received by July 17th. The three people with the most original comments will be chosen as our winners and notified by July 20th.

Just so you know ... by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.

Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.

GOOD LUCK!

Late Night Snacking ... Vegan Style! July 9, 2009

Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 14 ) | TrackBack

It's after midnight, you've moshed too hard at Warped Tour, and all you want to do is snack on something delicious and vegan-friendly. So ... with food and lasting memories of your favorite bands on the brain, what's a dude or lady to do? I might have your answer ...

Recently, a friend of mine told me about Denny's "Allnighter" program. Basically, Denny's is working with bands (and quite a few that we've worked with!) to create a "Rockstar Menu", personalized by the bands themselves. Our friends Good Charlotte even have a Boca Burrito available on the menu, which I've heard is absolutely delicious if you remove the cheese and the spicy mayo to veganize it! Even better? Sometimes after their shows, the bands involved in the "Allnighter" program throw huge afterparties at the local Denny's. Now that's what I'm talking about.

Personally, I'd love to see a band like AFI create a delicious vegan option. Mmmmm, food. Since I have food on the brain now, here's an old photo of me and my friend Rachel enjoying our favorite late night food, vegan tacos!

What's your favorite vegan late night snack?



P.S.: Have you entered our contest to win tickets to Warped Tour yet? Get on it!

Want Free peta2 Stuff?! July 9, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 8 ) | TrackBack

If you're on the peta2 Street Team, you know how easy it is to get free t-shirts, DVDs, hoodies, books and more just for doing things you already do—like stickering your cellphone, handing out leaflets, or just not breakin' hearts. You may also know how much peta2 <3's you. What does that mean for you?

Through the rest of the month of July (while supplies last), every time you earn enough points to order something on the Street Team (it's easy, we swear!) you'll get a free peta2 laminate!

Each laminate comes personalized with your name on it, and once they're gone, they're gone forever—so hurry and check out the Street Team today!

I Am Not a Muggle! July 9, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 22 ) | TrackBack

I don't know about you guys, but I'm stoked for the new Harry Potter movie! The movies are getting darker and darker, and I gotta say that I don't think Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince will disappoint.

Not surprisingly, the "I Am Not a Nugget" chick always wants to be all up in everything (seriously, it's difficult to get work done sometimes), so we created a banner to make sure everyone knows that chickens aren't nuggets, but they aren't muggles either!

Copy and paste:
<embed src="http://www.peta2.com/ecard/potterbanners/nugget_harrypotter.swf" quality="high" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="300" height="300"></embed>
And of course, we all know that chicks dig wizards! Who doesn't, honestly?



Copy and paste:
<embed src="http://www.peta2.com/ecard/potterbanners/nugget_harrypotter2.swf" quality="high" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="300" height="300"></embed>
Add one of these bad boys to your MySpace (or even default one on Facebook!) and send a link to StreetTeam@peta2.com and we'll give you 500 points. You'll definitely make fellow Harry Potter fans smile.

Who's going to see Harry Potter on the 15th? I can't WAIT!

We Want Your Input On Our Dissection Campaign! July 8, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 126 ) | TrackBack

Hey! We just had a meeting to talk about our dissection campaign, and we'd love to get your thoughts! It's time for a quick survey!

Why do you like or dislike our "Cut Class, Not Frogs" slogan?

Would you prefer any of the following slogans instead for our dissection campaign? Please be specific about which one(s) or offer your own suggestion.

• Cut Out Dissection
• Teach Respect, Don't Dissect
• Be Nice, Don't Slice
  
• Dissection Doesn't Cut It
• Dissection Is Dead Wrong

Be sure to let us know why this is your preference.

We're especially interested to hear your experiences with how your friends, parents, and teachers respond to these. So comment below with your thoughts.

Thanks. Remember to please be as specific as possible with your feedback. It's really important to us since we want to make sure we create the best materials for you to educate others about dissection!

Military Trauma Experiments are Torture July 8, 2009

Posted by Rachel-O | Permalink | Comments ( 7 ) | TrackBack

Remember a couple of months ago when Bolivia banned the use of animals in all military tests? Well for years PETA has been pushing the United States to do the same.

Through the Freedom of Information Act, the Physicians Committeee for Responsible Medicine (PRCM) has obtained video footage of several Department of Defense military trauma training exercises, and if you've ever needed anymore evidence as to just how cruel, unusual and outright disgusting these needless tests are, see below.

In training exercises that are supposed to simulate the effects of a nerve agent attack, monkeys experience seizures and difficulty breathing. Using monkeys in this exercise is profoundly inhumane, and it also distracts military personnel from the real-world, clinically valid training they need to treat chemical casualties.

Every year, thousands of live animals are shot, stabbed, dismembered, burned, and poisoned in Department of Defense (DoD) training exercises designed to train medics and infantry in how to treat various human battlefield injuries.

What can you do to help? Ask the Department of Defense to act now to end military trauma testing on animals.

Get Your Photo Taken With Gabe Saporta! July 8, 2009

Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 5 ) | TrackBack

So let me guess ... you watch the rad new Cobra Starship video for "Good Girls Go Bad" on repeat, you're counting down the days until Hot Mess comes out (35 days to be exact!), and you want nothing more than to get your picture taken with Cobra's vegetarian frontman, Gabe Saporta.

If you follow Cobra Starship News on Twitter, you may have seen this ...

... and they're not joking. We have a lifesize Gabe Saporta cutout at the peta2 tent on the entire Warped Tour, and he's sporting our Glamour Kills collab tee for our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts campaign. If that isn't hot, I don't know what is—so head on down to Warped Tour, find the peta2 tent, sign our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts petition, and get your photo opportunity on.

You know you want something like this as your MySpace default ...

Animals: They're Just Like Us! July 7, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 19 ) | TrackBack

We always think it's funny to see "Stars: They're Just Like Us!" photos. You know, photos of some celeb going running or picking through the produce at the grocery store to show us that they're just normal people like you and I are. OMG! My fave celeb buys food too! I can't believe it!

Well, people need to remember that animals are just like us too! Check it out (Warning: Cuteness alert!):

They reluctantly get kisses from their moms!


They get jealous when they're not the center of attention!


They spoon with their friends!

What do you think? Are animals just like us? Which pic is your favorite?

Hey, It's Nothing Personal! July 7, 2009

Posted by Shannon Phillips | Permalink | Comments ( 22 ) | TrackBack

If you've logged into your Twitter account today (follow us!), you may have seen something out of the ordinary in the trending topics ...

Exhibit A:


So what is #nothingpersonal anyway? "Nothing Personal" refers to the super sweet All Time Low album that hits the shelves in your local music store today. Not only that, but it also refers to an ongoing joke regarding the album's title and some All Time Low merch bearing the slogan that started this Twitter craze: "@All Time Low: Your New Album Sucks ... Nothing Personal!"

Naturally, fans wanted to get in on the fun, so the band—along with our friends at Glamour Kills— have set up a website where fans can interact each other and post their best "nothing personal" jokes here. Following suit, we want to give you a chance to send us your best "nothing personal" themed jokes, but with an animal rights twist.

Example: "You might be cute if you didn't stuff your face full of animal corpses—Nothing Personal!"

So, what are you waiting for? For your chance to win a copy of All Time Low's new album Nothing Personal, leave us a comment with your best animal themed "nothing personal" joke. The three most creative responses will be chosen as winners. Entries must be received by July 21 and winners will be notified by July 28.

Just so you know ... by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy. Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.

P.S. Check out our interview with All Time Low's Alex and Jack if you haven't already!

Rise Against Has Our Cookbook. Do You? July 7, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBack

Just wanted to take a second to share this picture of the guys from Rise Against with their very own copies of PETA's Vegan College Cookbook! I gave them copies, and while they were all pretty excited, Tim was especially thrilled as you can see. Ha!

Photo by Bree Kristel Clarke

We've got some more Rise Against stuff in the works coming up, and if you're going to any of their shows with Rancid this summer, make sure you check out the peta2 booth! We have some free stuff for you!

And if you have pictures of you with your copy of the cookbook, send them to us!



P.S. Can you find the Vegetarian hoodie in Rise Against's latest webisode?

Makes You Think July 6, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 11 ) | TrackBack

Laura Lee-Conboy sent us these photos from Ireland! Reminds me of the human meat-tray demonstrations we sometimes do here in the States.

Take a look!

Photographer: Christine Redmond
Make Up: Gemma Horan
Model: Laura Lee-Conboy

You can actually download the entire book of these powerful, artistic photos. It's entitled Evisceration.

If you have any photos or artwork you've done to spread the word about animal rights, please e-mail us pictures to StreetTeam@peta2.com or upload them here.

What do you think? Why do most people have such a hard time realizing that the animals they call dinner were once living, feeling beings just like you and me?

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures! July 6, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 3 ) | TrackBack

Either you like us more, or everyone's just taking more pictures (or both), because we've gotten tons of great Street Team reports recently!

Check out some of these examples from our Flickr album, and click on the pictures to learn more about each campaign!

Free Stuff Friday: Marshmallow Gift Basket From Sweet & Sara! July 3, 2009

Posted by Tiffany Wright | Permalink | Comments ( 345 ) | TrackBack

Going camping anytime soon? Or are you just in the mood for some yummy deliciousness? Then you don't want to miss out on this week's giveaway. We're giving you the chance to win a Marshmallow Gift Basket from our friends at Sweet & Sara—the birthplace of the vegan marshmallow (most marshmallows are made with gelatin, which is crushed up animal bones ... GROSS!).

Sweet & Sara has put together a gift basket filled with vegan vanilla marshmallows, toasted coconut marshmallows, original smores, peanut butter smores, and rocky road bark. Melt the marshmallows for a heavenly topping to a soy ice cream sundae or make some vegan Rice Krispie treats to share with your friends. Better yet, just eat everything straight outta the pack!

For your chance to win this Marshmallow Gift Basket from Sweet & Sara, comment below with your plans for these delicious marshmallows. Entries must be received by July 10th. The person with the yummiest comment will be chosen as our winner and notified by July 13th.

Just so you know ... by commenting here, you're acknowledging that you've read and agreed to our privacy policy.

Also by commenting, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions.

GOOD LUCK!

Vote for Your Favorite Dumb Comment July 2, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 58 ) | TrackBack

I like how people actually take time out of their lives to write and send us lame poems. Their lives must be filled with excitement ...

You know the deal: Names removed to protect the idiotic parties, and I've thrown some asterisks in the expletives. Enjoy!

1) wow....yal are seroius? its a food place ....for gods sake....how else are we going to get meat? god invented cows and chicken for meat not pets that are adored and just wow this is hiliarous
- Mc wow ur gay

2) PETA is the biggest joke in the world. ha u suck. MEAT FOR LIFE!. if god wanted us to be vegetarians animals wouldn't be made out of meat. plus it says in the bible that were are supposed to have dominion over animals. f**k peta. im about to go eat some McDonalds. don't get me wrong they way animals are killed and treated is wrong. but hey i luv meat. but i wont wear fur. :) and that thing were obama killed a fly u guys overreacated. its a f'm FLY. let it live so it can spread disease or poop on ur food. im sure all of u have swatted and killed a fly. U are the biggest lames and f**kers in the whole world I H8 PETA! if u go on twitter and look at the peta discussion on the most talked about threads. ha the whole world hate PETA. f**kin hypocrites. screw u. and MEAT FOREVER!

3) I could never be Vegan. Meat is too delicious, especially Sushi made from Sea Kittens and KFC. Damn I love KFC.

4) The bible states THOU SHALL NOT MURDER but GOD gave US animals to EAT not SAVE! If we all we vegitarians the earth would be runned by cows or something so stop wasting your f**king time and start chomping on meat you carrot huggers. Yes testing is Bad but what is worse is YOU ALL!!!! What r those sharp teeth in the back of you mouth? It is your k9 teeth and ur molers! What is the prupose of thouse teeth? to CHEW MEAT!!!!! So get on with your lives and STOP wasting you time with this bull crap you carrot huggers! You should ALL be WAY more conserned with RECYCLING or some bull. Become tree huggers NOT carrot huggers! You all are gay a** wight wades!!!!!!! F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2 F**K PETA2

5) PETA is so f**king lame
f**king lame
f**king lame
PETA is so f**king lame
That they want to have sex with animals.

They try to destroy the world for everyone
everyone
everyone
They try to destroy the world for everyone
because they are incompetient.

They lack the ability to grow some balls
grow some balls
grow some balls
They lack the ability to grow some balls
And eat animals.

Let me know your favorite by commenting below!

P.S. As always, you can check out past installments of dumb comments here.

News! July 2, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 1 ) | TrackBack

Happy July! I like this month because it's an opportunity to reuse your peta2 flags for the 4th, plus my birthday is this month!

There have been some interesting news stories this week worth sharing, so here you go ...

First off (and no surprise to any of us, really), the American Dietetic Association (ADA) recently updated and re-released its position paper on vegetarian diets. Among the ADA's findings are that, "appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life-cycle including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood and adolescence and for athletes." Furthermore, it points out that vegetarians "tend to have a lower body mass index and lower overall cancer rates. Vegetarian diets tend to be lower in saturated fat and cholesterol and have higher levels of dietary fiber, magnesium and potassium, vitamins C and E, folate, carotenoids, flavonoids and other phytochemicals." You might want to show that to your parents, teachers, or anyone else who may be trying to give you a hard time about your decision to not eat animals! There's a copy of the press release here.

In other news, did you hear about the pig who escaped during a crash on the way to slaughter, then turned up lounging around in someone's backyard pool?! Seems like the pig's life is being spared, too! Way to go, piggy!

This is a quick feature with campaigner Jena Hunt.

There's this story about a former worker at a turkey slaughterhouse who was caught stomping on a bird's head and slamming another to the ground during a PETA investigation.

And if course, there's a lot more which you can keep up to date on by reading our blog all day, every day! That's where you're going to hear the news most directly from us instead of having your eyes and ears bombarded by ridiculous, overhyped stories about flies and other nonsense.

Thanks! Oh. And I went camping in the Redwoods recently. It was awesome, and I saw lots of animals in addition to trees that are thousands of years old! Here's a picture of a wild elk from my trip!!!

Breaking Hearts and Taking Names July 2, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 6 ) | TrackBack

Hey buddies!

Warped Tour has officially started and so has our Animal Testing Breaks Hearts campaign! To start this off right, part of the peta2 Road Crew has been plowing through cities telling people how animal testing is a true heartbreaker and to sign our petition to help end these pointless acts of brutality. We're asking cosmetics companies to stop doing cruel, painful and pointless tests on bunnies, rats, and other animals in labs nationwide. We've been hitting the crowds hard to let them know about all the great companies that are kind enough not to torture animals for no reason other than selfish profit. For a whole list of companies that refuse to do tests on animals, check this out!

During the show in Ventura, CA, we took the bunny out into the crowd during 3OH!3's set. The crowd had a great time dancing with the bunny, signing the petition, and hearing great music. It was a win-win for everyone! Stay tuned for more from us on this year's Warped Tour. I'm going to let Paige take it from here to give you some updates on what she's been up to recently ...


Thanks, Joey! We also kicked off Rock the Bells in Chicago and Detroit. This Hip Hop crowd jumped right on board with speaking out against McDonald's cruel practices. Chickens are slaughtered by McDonald's suppliers using outdated methods like slitting their throats while fully conscious. Now the biggest seller of chicken meat in the U.S., McDonald's has the responsibility—and the ability—to reduce this abuse by demanding that its U.S. suppliers use a less cruel method of slaughter.




Featured in our pictures are our AMAZING volunteers, Peter and Ian, that we met doing College Outreach on their campus! Want to make changes at your school? Or do you want to become an intern? There are so many ways to help animals—find some here.

That's all for now from the Road Warriors. Check back in next week for more updates and more tour pics!

Joey & Paige

Happy Canada Day (Unless You're a Seal!) July 1, 2009

Posted by Ryan | Permalink | Comments ( 10 ) | TrackBack

There are many things to love about Canada (not least of which is the vegan faux chicken available at many KFC's across the country). Unfortunately, the Great White North's reputation has been stained red by their continued support for slaughtering seals.

As Canadians and their international admirers are celebrating Canada Day today, PETA and its affiliates made sure that nobody forgot those "citizens" who won't be celebrating—because they've been clubbed to death.

To draw attention to the issue, activists held demonstrations at Canadian consulates and embassies around the world. Check out this one, all the way from London, England!

There were also some brave "seals" crashing Canada Day parades all across the country. What can we say? Seals like to party too.






Make sure to leave your comment below, encouraging the Canadian government to give seals something to celebrate!

Caption This Photo July 1, 2009

Posted by Marta | Permalink | Comments ( 11 ) | TrackBack

I love this photo so much. It sends such a strong message! What would you caption it?

Let me know what you think! And for more information, check this out.

Fear July 1, 2009

Posted by Pulin Modi | Permalink | Comments ( 10 ) | TrackBack
We've all heard occasional, dumb comments from people who haven't yet realized the importance of being kind to animals. While we can all agree that the dogs and cats in our homes feel pain, joy, and even get scared, there are still some people who just don't make the connection to other animals they eat! In fact, just like you and I, all animals do feel fear when faced with terrifying situations. After a lifetime of suffering, does anyone really think that animals are unaware of what awaits them at the slaughterhouse?

Well, if anyone you know has any doubts about the fear which animals feel, please take a few minutes to watch this video all the way through. It's not very graphic, honestly, it's just very powerful.