I would say that a slaughter statistic of 99% is a little high, especially since ranchers have begun breeding registered crossbreeds.1995 government stats for Manitoba (one of four regions producing PMU) estimate 35-40% (from the 1995 Manitoba Agriculture Yearbook). In 1996 it was 30-35%. Still, one foal being slaughtered is too many.

A final note: rescuing PMU foals is a worthwhile effort, but please take a look at the larger picture before you get drawn into the rescue bit. We need to spread the facts about this abuse and hasten the end of this cruel industry; saving foals will not do this. Anywhere from 30,000 to 60,000 foals and at least as many mares are affected by this industry every year. One independent study has cited a foal mortality rate of over 20% on PMU ranches. Saving foals will not change these facts. I sincerely wish that the organizations concerned about this abuse would stop using it as a fund-raising campaign and put their money towards educating the world about it. That's the only way we're going to beat this monster. Please be cautious of any organization that sides with PMU ranchers on this issue. I feel for the ranchers, but they are as much a part of this abuse as Wyeth-Ayerst. Just because they may be friendly folks does not make what they're doing right. They (and NAERIC) are doing their best to put a rosy hue on this industry and make it appear that their primary business is breeding quality horses.