— The transition period in Norway was set for six years, from 2019 to 2025, he explains Kuba Leteka veterinarian living in Norway. — But the last farm was closed in 2023, two years ahead of schedule. This resulted from a similar compensation system proposed in Poland.
As he emphasizes, in Norway, before the ban was introduced, extensive consultations were carried out, both with veterinarians and farmers. — Scientific analyzes were also carried out to check whether the welfare of fur animals could be improved. After two years of research, we came to the conclusion that no. In the case of minks, foxes or raccoon dogs – it is simply impossible – says Letek.
“It's stress that changes animals from the inside”
The veterinarian has no doubt: breeding fur animals involves suffering, which affects not only the animals' bodies, but also their psyche.
— Anyone who says otherwise either doesn't know how animals work or is lying. Stress is inevitable for these species, Letek says. — And it's not about stress comparable to a dog that is afraid of going to the vet. We are talking about chronic stress that changes the biology and psyche of animals.
As he explains, long-term stress causes the release of cortisol, which weakens the immune system and leads to irreversible neurological changes. — These animals are simply sick. Their immune system stops working and changes in the brain cause behavioral disorders. There is no question of any quality of life, he adds.
In Norway, cage farming is illegal
Kuba Letek emphasizes that animal welfare is treated as a priority in Norway.
— Cage farming is illegal in Norway. And fur farming simply doesn't exist anymore. Every report of poor conditions is checked. The Norwegian equivalent of the Veterinary Inspection responds to even the smallest signals, he says.
He adds that in Scandinavian countries the approach to animals is completely different than in Poland. — Agriculture is not a key pillar of the economy here, but welfare standards are very high. It is an element of culture and social awareness, he emphasizes.
“Poland lacks systemic solutions”
As the veterinarian notes, Poland lacks solutions that would allow animal owners to respond better in crisis situations.
— In Norway, there is something like ad hoc financial assistance – small support from the state that allows you to pay for treatment or, if necessary, perform humane euthanasia. It may sound brutal, but it is often a choice out of concern for the animal, he explains.
According to him, there are no such tools in Poland. — There is a lack of emergency funds and systemic health insurance for animals. Commercial insurance exists, but it is not available to everyone. But today animals are members of families, says Letek. — The law does not keep up with social awareness and changes in the perception of animals.
Finally, the veterinarian reminds us of the basic rule: — Owning an animal is not a human right. This is our conscious choice, which comes with responsibility. And the state should support owners in its implementation, he concludes.
