From: Maryanne Appel [FREKUNVEGUN@prodigy.net]
Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2000 4:58 PM
To: FDADockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: Docket No. 98P-0151/CP1

U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Dockets Management Branch

Re:  Docket No. 98P-0151/CP1

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Please grant the petition made by Farm Sanctuary to prohibit the slaughter of downed animals.

I do not understand why it is taking so long to end the trade in sick, diseased, injured, and dying animals.  These are sentient beings who are suffering needlessly.  

Not only would a ban on trading in downed animals alleviate their final agonies, but it would also encourage better treatment of so-called "farm animals" overall in that such a ban would would give the profiteers no motive to attempt to sell animals who are so sick, diseased, weak, or injured that they cannot stand.  Perhaps they will even be motivated to treat them better "down on the farm."

If our government has little or no concern for these animal beings, then at least consider the public that consumes their remains at an unprecented rate.  

I trust that you will act on this matter propitiously and without further delay.

Respectfully yours,
Maryanne Appel
1409 Deer Meadow Ln.
Boothwyn, PA  19061-1925