Episode 150: “Only if we understand can we care. Only if we care will we help. Only if we help shall they be saved.”

Welcome to the 150^th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dan Mathews. 
On today’s show, we celebrate 150 episodes of changing the world for animals! This includes talk of some of our most memorable guests and episodes since we celebrated 100, and a look ahead at what’s in store, as well as our thoughts for vegan-pie-in-the-sky guests.
We’ll talk squawk about pigeon tattoos, eyebrow advocacy, and why the mainstream doesn’t always get it when the joke is on them.
In our segment, “The Professor and Mariann,” Mariann will discuss the happenings from her animal law classes, including the First Amendment, as well as economics and health based litigation — all pertaining to animals, of course.
Joining us today is Dan Mathews, the Senior Vice President of PETA, and the author of Committed: A Rabble-Rouser’s Memoir. Dan will talk to us about everything from his feelings regarding the overlaps between gay rights and animal rights, to what sort of shifts he has seen working with PETA since the 80’s. He’ll tell us about his role in some famed PETA stunts which have, in so many ways, shaped our society’s outlook on animal rights, and he’ll let us in on the next person he most wishes he could turn vegan. We’ll also talk about thrifting, childhood woes, and to-do lists.
For our review today, we’ll tell you all about the film, The Paw Project, a documentary which delves into the horrific world of declawing cats, and tells the story of one activist’s journey to create legislation banning it.
All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.
This week’s news items include:

• “Ken Salazar Apologizes For Threatening Colorado Reporter” from The Huffington Post
• “$500 million animal abuse settlement reached” from San Francisco Chronicle
• “Blue Jays trade: Will Ontario’s pit bull ban prompt Mark Buehrle to spurn Jays?” from The Star
• “Actress blasts Ontario pit bull ban” from Global Toronto
• “Meat consumption and demand both in decline!” from Counting Animals
• “Fiona Apple’s letter about her dying dog tears fans’ hearts asunder” from The Examiner

“Only if we understand can we care. Only if we care will we help. Only if we help shall they be saved.” -Jane Goodall
The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.
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