Scrap 'cruel' and 'archaic' Highland Show livestock parade, say animal rights activists
Calling the tradition cruel, the charity said it is time for Scotland's largest agricultural event to 'enter the 21st century' and stop marching animals in front of noisy crowds.
The historic show, which this year runs from June 19 to 22 at Ingliston, near Edinburgh Airport, showcases Scotland's food, farming and rural life.
It attracts close to 200,000 visitors every year with around 4,500 head of livestock plus other animals on show and taking part in competitions.
But PETA has sent a letter to James Logan, chairman of the organisers Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, urging him to 'scrap the cruel, archaic Grand Parade that showcases farmed animals and horses' and instead 'erect a statue that celebrates animals for the individuals they are'.
Dawn Carr vice president of vegan corporate project at the charity said they'd even foot the bill for the artwork.
She wrote since farming began our understanding of animals has improved and that every one of them is 'someone with complex socials preferences, skills, and a lust for life not unlike our own'.
Ms Carr said: 'Cows and bulls are playful and loyal, sheep are clever and empathetic, and chickens are curious and nurturing.
'One thing animals are not is 'stock', and a statue commemorating them is a much better way to celebrate animals than marching them in front of noisy crowds of people, many of whom later pile animals' dead bodies onto plates.
'To meet this appetite for flesh, millions of animals are confined to dirty, dark factory farms for their entire miserable lives.'
She continued: 'Of course, the Royal Highland Show can still celebrate farming! The UK farmers who supply our fruit, vegetables, grains and other plant foods certainly deserve a parade for keeping us nourished with cruelty-free protein, vitamins, and minerals with a far lower carbon footprint.
'Plus, not one potato will feel skittish if paraded through cheering crowds, nor will a squash scream when later chopped to pieces. Animal parades are so yesterday, but a plant parade would be a real turnip for the books.'
Mr Logan said the show has 'proudly celebrated' the country's rural communities for 241 years championing all aspect of agriculture and food production.
He added: 'Animal welfare is, and always has been, a top priority. We work closely with veterinary professionals, welfare organisations, and regulatory agencies to ensure the highest standards of care are upheld across the Show, including during the Grand Parade.
'Animals are handled by experienced professionals in a calm and respectful environment, and claims of cruelty are both inaccurate and misleading.'
Mr Logan concluded: 'The Royal Highland Show continues to be a celebration of progress in food and farming and a showcase of the pride, professionalism, and care at the heart of Scottish agriculture.'
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