PETA accusing AFA of animal cruelty during training

PETA is claiming that the U.S. Air Force Academy is using domesticated rabbits for a “sustenance” training exercise and that the practice is “both cruel and unnecessary.”

The animal-advocate group is calling for an immediate investigation of public records and has stated that since 2014, USAFA has spent thousands of taxpayer dollars to buy these live animals from dealers who aren’t licensed by the USDA so that they can beaten, skinned and eaten by those in training.

The USAFA has also allegedly failed to submit federally mandated annual reports to the USDA that document the number of rabbits it uses and kills.

“PETA is calling on the U.S. Air Force Academy to stop killing animals and to join other military units in using humane and effective non-animal training methods,” said PETA Senior Vice President of Laboratory Investigations Kathy Guillermo.

KRDO NewsChannel 13 asked for a comment from AFA and got the following statement:

“The Air Force values the humane treatment of animals consistent with current Department of Defense guidance and policy. We are currently reviewing the issues raised in PETA’s letter, and will provide additional information upon conclusion of the review,” said Capt Brooke Brzozowske with USAF.

PETA has also created an online article, expressing their concerns and asking people to help with ending the practice.