The city of Ojai has taken a monumental step in protecting our beloved pets by becoming the first U.S. city to ban torture breeding. This historic ordinance halts the cruel practice of breeding animals to possess extreme physical traits that cause lifelong suffering¹.

Understanding Torture Breeding

Torture breeding, or "qualzucht" in German, involves the deliberate breeding of animals to exhibit exaggerated physical features detrimental to their health and well-being. This practice primarily targets specific dog breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Dachshunds, which suffer from respiratory issues, spinal disorders, and other debilitating conditions². These practices prioritize superficial aesthetics over the genuine health and happiness of our animal companions.

Beyond companion animals, torture breeding extends to farm animals. Selective breeding for performance traits in dairy cattle, beef cattle, poultry, and pigs leads to severe health issues. These include udder infections in dairy cows, skeletal anomalies in beef cattle, and joint deformities in broiler chickens, among others³.

The Reprehensible Consequences

The ethical implications of torture breeding are profound and heartbreaking. Animals bred for these extreme traits endure chronic pain, reduced lifespans, and a diminished quality of life. French Bulldogs struggle to breathe due to their flattened faces, leading to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, while Dachshunds suffer from intervertebral disc disease, often resulting in paralysis or death².

"This suffering is as severe as that inflicted by physical abuse, and Ojai has made the right decision in choosing to no longer tolerate it," said Emma Milne, founder of Vets Against Brachycephalism⁴

Ojai Leads the Way

In a historic move, the city of Ojai, California, became the first in the United States to ban torture breeding. The Ojai City Council, led by Mayor Betsy Stix, adopted the Companion Animal Protection Ordinance. This law prohibits the breeding of animals with deformed bodies and extreme features that cause lifelong suffering⁴.

"Our companion animals are cherished members of our families and our communities, so I hope that this inspires other cities around the country to adopt companion animal protection ordinances of their own," said Mayor Stix⁵. Her leadership has positioned Ojai as a beacon for animal welfare advocates across the nation.

A Global Movement

Ojai's ordinance aligns with international efforts to curb torture breeding. Countries like Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland have implemented similar laws¹. These nations recognize the severe health impacts of extreme breeding and have taken legislative steps to protect animal welfare.

Ojai's successful implementation of the torture breeding ban sets a precedent for other cities and states. Advocacy groups are pushing for similar legislation nationwide. Their efforts aim to educate the public and influence policymakers to prioritize animal health over superficial breed standards.

The time to act is now. By signing our petition, you support Ojai's ban on torture breeding and help inspire other cities across the country to adopt similar ordinances. Your voice can drive the change needed to protect countless animals from suffering and ensure they lead healthy, happy lives.

Join us in this crucial fight for animal welfare. Sign the petition today and be a part of creating a compassionate future for all animals.

More on this issue:

1. Sheila Goffe, ShowSight Magazine (17 October 2024), "Torture Breeding: The Dangerous New Threat to Our Breeds."
2. Jess Thomson, Newsweek (11 April 2024), "Dachshund, French Bulldog Breeds Suffer From 'Torture Breeding’."
3. Four Paws in US (23 August 2024), "Torture Breeding of Farm Animals."
4. Wes Woods II, Ventura County Star (24 October 2024), "Ojai becomes first U.S. city to ban torture breeding of animals."
5. Ara Oliver, PUBLICATION (22 October 2024), "Huge Win! Ojai Becomes First American City to Ban ‘Torture Breeding’ of Cats and Dogs."