VHS is a respected voice on animal issues because we use research to ensure our views are factual and evidence-based. Below are VHS’s most recent opinion editorials published in the media.
It’s time to stop using taxpayer money to fund inhumane events
Article originally published in The Daily Hive. On Thursday, the Government of British Columbia announced new funding for fairs, festivals, and events; but the inclusion of one controversial and inhumane type of event is raising eyebrows among animal advocates. According to a press release from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, the Province…
Why hasn’t Canada stopped horses from being shipped to slaughter overseas?
Article originally published in The Daily Hive. Sunday night on the cold tarmac of Winnipeg Airport, a gentle horse stood in a crate, waiting to be loaded onto an airplane. The horse had no name; he and the thousands of horses like him who are shipped out of Canada each year are known only by…
Wolf escapes highlight horrific issues plaguing Greater Vancouver Zoo
Article originally published in The Daily Hive. Animal lovers in B.C. are mourning the loss of Chia, a wolf who escaped from her enclosure at the Greater Vancouver Zoo Tuesday. Chia was tragically found dead on the side of the road yesterday. Officials believe that Chia was hit by a car. And it’s known that animals raised…
Calgary Stampede-goers should skip deadly chuckwagon races
A version of this article originally published in The Daily Hive. People from across Alberta and Canada are flocking to Calgary for the return of the Calgary Stampede, but the event’s program gives reason for pause. For the first time since 2019, the Stampede’s deadliest event is returning: the Rangeland Derby chuckwagon races. It doesn’t…
“No justice” for those who exposed animal cruelty at Abbotsford hog farm
Article originally published in The Daily Hive. Today, the Excelsior 4 (now 3) begin their trial by jury for exposing animal cruelty at a hog farm in Abbotsford; but there is no justice in this case. The story of the Excelsior 4 began in 2019, when dozens of animal activists documented the suffering of pigs…
Proposed rodeo in Langley flies in the face of community values
Article originally published in The Daily Hive. A new rodeo may be coming to the Lower Mainland — and that could spell bad news for animals and residents. Organizers have requested approval from the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association to host the event in Langley this September. The group name, Valley West Stampede Society, may not ring any…