From: Bob Stevenson [rstevenson@houston.rr.com]
Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2000 8:07 AM
To: FDADockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: Docket No. 98P-0151/CP1/Downed Animals

I urge you to grant this petition prohibing the slaughter of downed animals.  Animals who are too sick or injured even to stand should not be allowed to enter the human food chain.  In addition to posing an increased risk for bacterial contamination, there is evidence that some downed animals may be infected with a form of BSE, a disease which has been linked to a fatal human illness:  CJD or Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease.  It is practically impossible to move downed animals humanely, and they are typically pushed with tractors or dragged with chains--inhumane processes which cause injuries ranging from bruises and abrasions, to broken bones and torn ligaments.  Downed animals comprise a very small percentage of animals slaughtered, and prohibiting their marketing will cause no undue economic hardship.  Industry experts have estimated that 90% of downed animals can be prevented with better care and handling.  Removing the market for downed animals will provide an incentive for the industry to prevent downed animals in the first place.

Sincerely,

Susan Stevenson