End the Inhumane Wood County Fair “Catch a Pig Contest!”

I personally witnessed the trauma the piglets experienced at the Wood County Fair Catch a Pig Contest, held in Bowling Green, Ohio this past August 2015. Please help me send a message to the Fair Board that we find this cruel event unacceptable and dangerous for both the pigs and children involved.

It is a fact that pigs are extraordinarily intelligent, curious and insightful animals. It is widely accepted that they are smarter than young children of at least 3 years of age, dogs, and some primates. To subject these intelligent, sensitive creatures to the terror of being chased through a muddy arena by screaming children is unthinkable. Not only is it a traumatic experience for these pigs, both the pigs and children are at real risk of injury as the kids run, slipping through the mud, jumping on them, grabbing and pulling repeatedly on their legs. In addition, the terrified animals urinate and defecate in the mud, making it a health hazard for all the participants.

We are also concerned with the message we are sending the children of Wood County. We do not want them to think that it is acceptable to terrify innocent creatures for entertainment purposes, or worse yet, put them at risk for serious injury. There are so many other fun activities(where everyone is a willing participant)that could replace this cruel and inhumane 'contest.' We encourage you to take a compassionate stand by signing this petition demanding that the Wood County Fair Board puts an end to this cruel and inhumane event. The children and animals of Wood County deserve so much better.