Quantcast Vegetarian StarThanksgiving turkey

WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 25:  U.S. President Barack Obama pardons a turkey named 'Courage' as daughter Sasha (2nd R) looks on during an event to pardon the 20-week-old and 45-pound turkey at the North Portico of the White House November 25, 2009 in Washington, DC. The Presidential pardon of a turkey has been a long time Thanksgiving tradition that dates back to the Harry Truman administration.  (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Farm Sanctuary has started a petition to urge President Barack Obama to send this year’s pardoned turkey to its sanctuary instead of the traditional retirement homes at Disney Parks. Because turkeys bred for food are often raised so they grow as large as possible in a short time frame, they’re prone to health problems. Many turkeys sent to the Disney Parks die within one year and Farm Sanctuary would like the opportunity to care for them, giving them a chance at a longer life.

Gene Baur, President and co-founder of the Sanctuary said:

“We are offering the Obama administration an opportunity to distinguish themselves from past administrations by starting a new, compassionate Thanksgiving tradition that is more in-step with Americans’ growing concern about the welfare of animals raised for food…By sending the pardoned birds to Farm Sanctuary’s renowned shelter in Watkins Glen, N.Y., the Obama Administration can show that it cares about the humane treatment of animals, and ensure that the turkeys get the expert care they need to thrive.”

When passing this petition around to gather signatures, you may also want to share these facts about turkeys Farm Sanctuary has provided.

1. Turkeys recognize each other by their unique voices.

2. Researchers have identified more than 20 distinct vocalizations in wild turkeys.

3. Turkeys have excellent geography skills and can learn the specific details of an area of more than 1,000 acres.

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