http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2003041504,00.html
PIG farmers have been told they must put TOYS inside every sty - or serve up to three months in prison. Failure to get crackling could also mean a �1,000 fine under Brussels trotting-up rules. The law, which entitles the animals to balls, squeaky dolls and other playthings to keep them happy, comes into effect in Britain in April. Farmer Neville Meeker, of Warminster, Wilts, has already given his 1,200 pigs a plastic plane and a furry teddy bear. But he said: "These toys won't last two minutes. I suppose I will just have to buy some balls." "The day of the toy inspector has arrived and it is not a TV spoof. It is the dictators of Europe who have thought this up. Good job the January sales are on. Hamleys here we come!" Guidelines given to farmers use the terms "environmental enrichment" and "manipulable material". But last night the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs declared: "We mean balls." A spokesman added: "Farmers may also need to change the balls so the pigs don't get bored of the same ones. "The important thing is to see pigs happy in their environment. They like to forage with their noses." Bored pigs bite each others tails and ears. Mark White, ex-president of the Pig Veterinary Society, said: "They think if we relieve their boredom they will not chew each other." xponent Mars Needs Women Maru rob ________________________________ You are a fluke of the universe. You have no right to be here. And whether you can hear it or not, the universe is laughing behind your back. _______________________________________________ http://www.mccmedia.com/mailman/listinfo/brin-l
