As a nation of animal lovers, most of us wouldn’t dream of boiling an animal alive, ripping their limbs off without pain relief, or denying them basic freedom of movement.
Yet this is exactly what happens on a daily basis to millions of crabs, lobsters, prawns and crayfish (decapod crustaceans).
For years we have been campaigning for the humane treatment of these animals. We’ve had widespread support from eminent scientists, national veterinary bodies and animal welfare organisations. Over 57,000 people have signed our petition calling for their protection.
In response to our work, the government commissioned an ...
As a nation of animal lovers, most of us wouldn’t dream of boiling an animal alive, ripping their limbs off without pain relief, or denying them basic freedom of movement.
Yet this is exactly what happens on a daily basis to millions of crabs, lobsters, prawns and crayfish (decapod crustaceans).
For years we have been campaigning for the humane treatment of these animals. We’ve had widespread support from eminent scientists, national veterinary bodies and animal welfare organisations. Over 57,000 people have signed our petition calling for their protection.
In response to our work, the government commissioned an expert team of researchers to review whether these animals are capable of feeling pain. Having reviewed all available evidence, they concluded that decapods are sentient and need protection from pain and suffering.
In light of this outcome, the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill was updated to include decapods. The Sentience Bill is new piece of post-Brexit legislation. Its role is to recognise the sentience of animals in UK law, carrying over a duty previously imposed by the EU to ensure the basis for animal protection.
The inclusion of decapods in this Bill is a great step-forward for animal welfare. Now we need the Bill to pass successfully to Royal Assent so it can become law. With many steps still to go, the Bill must be supported.
We need your support to ensure decision makers support the Sentience Bill and follow-through with protecting these vulnerable animals that have been overlooked for so long.
To find out more about Crustacean Compassion’s work to protect decapod crustaceans, visit our website at www.crustaceancompassion.org.uk
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has recently taken several steps to consider both the scientific basis and public interest for protecting decapod crustaceans. But they could ignore the very first opportunity to recognise sentience in these animals. We need you to urgently tell your MP that you support protection of decapod crustaceans.