As always, the voice of reason, good sense & knowledge. Thank you Chris for being a spokesman for so many of us and sharing your feelings. Yesterday was one of the most distressing things I've ever seen in my 3 score years and 10, and this after a career in frontline NHS 😥
I've already commented on FB about this appalling decision and the way it was carried out but just want to send you some care as well as although it IS horribly depressing YOU are making a difference and people are waking up and we have to remain as positive as we can to the last breath. Love what you do.
Totally agree Chris : like you, the events of Defra’s assault on the poor animal and total lack of empathy, affected me greatly and leave me feeling so depressed. My overriding feeling is , these Defra people acted in anger , determined to show that no one can push them around. I hate to think of how they treated him away from the cameras in his last moments.
Last year Boris let in 1million migrants. These people need houses, cars, food and create waste and pollution and energy. Immigration damages the environment.
Totally agree this was disgraceful, inhumane, cruel and disgusting what happened to Geronimo, so heartbreaking💔the people who chased him down are evil with no compassion how can they live with themselves 💔
Last year Boris let in 1million migrants. These people need houses, cars, food and create waste and pollution and energy. Immigration damages the environment.
I sobbed watching Geronimo being traumatised and feel heart broken - this is insane behaviour from all of the institutions involved and cruelty beyond measure - I’m sorry Chris it has had such a devastating impact on your heart and left so much sadness with you... DEFRA have lost all respect for me from this situation - I am sickened to my soul in this lack of humanity! Helen must be overwhelmed...
In total agreement Chris. I totally feel your depression. So difficult to remain positive at the moment. I want to believe that things will get better. Hard to see when you're in a "low". We just have to stay strong and keep on "being kind". Thank you for your hard work, and wise words. Dont lose your spirit.❤🕊
Thank you so much for this Chris, my heart hurts for what happened to Geronimo your compassion and intelligence shine through, although you are clearly suffering. So many of us feel the same as you. I hope you get through this very difficult time soon and are not overwhelmed. Sending 💚💚
I can’t comprehend why the test Helen wanted to have done wasn’t “allowed” or couldn’t be done independently. This is a brutal outcome of a situation where a creature deemed to have been carrying a disease for four years with no symptoms, needs to be investigated, particularly with regards to no independent presence at a post mortem. The images of Geronimo being tied, dragged and pushed to his slaughter is hard to eradicate from my mind. The truth will come out in Geronimo’s name.
I adore all animals and the natural world. It's so sad. If he had to go he should of gone in a much more peaceful way. Shame on these people. It's always the animals that suffer. RIP little fella. X
Sorry to hear your feeling low Chris, surely by not allowing an independent vet be present at autopsy will make it look like they are trying to hide things. KEEP YOUR CHIN UP CHRIS THINKING OF YOU CYBER HUGS.
Hi Chris. I feel exactly the same. I'm still in total shock that Defra could treat this gentle animal with such barbarity in front the the world's media. We would never treat a human being like this! I hope the people responsible are charged with cruelty. RIP Geronimo.
Absolutely 💯 percent agree with Chris Geronimo was a living breathing innocent animal that didn't deserve the vile abuse and cruel behaviour of how he was treated 💔 So depressing although we knew the outcome ., it is still upsetting to read and watch the agony of his owner and countless innocent badgers and others that have been slaughtered and still no proof of TB. Today was a sad day of showing how cruel and heartless humans are now becoming
Thank you so much Mr Packham. Thank you as you are respected where as us animal rights people are treated disgracefully and not heard. We are the compassionate people, we are not cruel murderers like those monsters, yet we are demonised, criminalised and sent to jail. The police presence was absolutely out of proportion for a small group of bunny huggy terrorists who wanted to save an innocent, bTB free animal from being murdered! The lanes we blocked in 2 places with countless police. It was horrendous and barbaric for our boy. Absolute outrage but our voices mean nothing. We are the "voiceless for the voiceless" so thankyou for using yours. Love, strength and respect 🙏
I understand where Chris is coming from and I hope that he is right that we can make progress. Kindness does seem to be a good guiding principle but when does kindness become toleration of something as horrific as yesterday’s execution of a healthy animal dragged away from his home? It is a fine line and a difficult judgement, and hard to tell someone like Helen MacDonald , who has suffered an atrocity like that to be kind or restrained.
A very moving video with so much compassion for everyone affected by this brutality at the hands of DEFRA. I feel so sad that the shocking scenes we all witnessed has left thousands of people feeling depressed, shocked and very very angry due to the incompetence and barbaric way in which Geronimo was treated. Nothing should ever end this way. Like you, I have been very depressed and tearful since and those horrific scenes will haunt me forever. I am a psychotherapist and am used to hearing dreadful stories but never have I been so affected as I am about Geronimo. It will take us all a long time to find any positives in anything this government does and the fact that Defra will not disclose the PM results just adds insult to injury for Helen McDonald and everyone who supports this very strong lady. Love & strength to you and all who have been deeply affected by this horrific case. RIP Geronimo, we all loved you and we are sorry that human beings let you down so badly❤️❤️
I feel exactly the same images that will not go away. I have been reading a tabloid newspaper (Independent) report Helen McDonald says she will not rest until she knows how her darling boy died and finding out who the vets were that carried out this despicable torture on Geronimo in his final pathetic hours... thus they should be struck off. Saddened I be Ms Cullum by it all.
We lovers of Geronimo and Mrs Helen Macdonald are all feeling your pain too so you are not alone chris, it shows how much we care and that we are the good people! All we can do now is keep fighting for justice and not to give up! We will not forget about this like Defra is thinking and hoping, it was totally out of our control and we all did as much as we possibly could! I sent a very angry email to Defra last night that's for sure, I will not give up and Chris please keep fighting for animal rights too, grieve for a little while then fight back! Please take care of yourself and know that you are not alone!!! You are such a lovely and caring person and you should be proud of yourself! Sending my love X
Thank goodness we have @ChrisPackham to speak so eloquently about issues like this. I'm often just reduced to expletives and tears, which doesn't help. Let's all do what we can to campaign on these issues. It all boils down to how we see and treat animals as expendible "things" and pick and choose who (people and animals!) are valued.
Thank you Chris for this heartfelt message. It helped me enormously. To understand what was really going on as I don’t feel I truly understood it. I feel enlightened and of course saddened now and angry at DEFRA and the decision made against any true democratic sense. Thoughts with you x
JUSTICE FOR GERONIMO! As an alpaca breeder in NZ (Geronimo's homeland) words cannot express the immense sadness I feel for Geronimo and Helen, and the extreme anger I feel for those louts that took him away. If any of them were vets, they have broken the vet code of conduct. And those wearing hazmat suits obviously too scared to be recognised in case of public reprisal because they KNEW what they were doing was wrong. They certainly didn't need the suits to prevent catching TB otherwise why weren't the police similarly suited up. And the press were all over his paddock - no bio security there. And not allowing independent vet to be present at the autopsy - words fail me. Any result showing positive is NOT TO BE BELIEVED. The big question is Was Geronimo still alive when he arrived at his destination. The way he was tied up so he couldn't sit down (as alpacas normally do when they are transported) and that the calf rope was too low down over his nose meaning he couldn't breathe properly leaves a 50% chance that he died either of asphyxiation or by hanging himself before he arrived at the destination. I never leave my alpacas tied up when I transport them in the float. DISGUSTED EX BRIT
Strongly agree with you, Chris. The horrendous cruelties, lack of humility and compassion in our society are sometimes overwhelming. That's why we are so thankful that you, Wild Justice and many others are showing a lead in how to create change for the better. Hang in there, we need you, we support you and we should all make our voices heard. Especially over this incident as it exposes a great knot of issues, as you point out - ineffective bovine Tb testing, badger scapegoating and killing, the huge numbers of cattle tested positive and killed and the terrible distress so many suffer because of it all. How do we best let DEFRA know their actions are completely unacceptable? How do we raise enormous public pressure?
I know you are not keen on hugs, but I hope you don't mind me sending a virtual hug and my COMPLETE understanding of everything you said and feel. Not sure a cup of tea will help, it's there anyway.
Totally agree with everything you say Chris. Disgraceful act and so very cruel to both Geronimo and Helen 😥. Shame on you Defra 😡. Chris, sorry to hear that you are feeling so down at the moment.
I can't understand why they wouldn't allow an independent vet to be present at the post mortem? I understood that the owner had this right (after they'd murdered her animal)??? I seriously can't cope with this whole situation. Thank you, Chris, for verbalising your emotions in a way I couldn't. I hope you feel better after this, I will follow your lead and try to remain calm and kind going forward. But it hurts so bad. I can't imagine how his owner and herd are feeling rn. 😭
I think the way it was carried out was obviously cruel and unnecessary. But the thing that bothered me most was seeing how caught up people got in one animal like that when they don’t pay any attention at all to the fact that the climate crisis is going to lead to the likely extinctions of so many species and complete devastation for ourselves. It’s just bizarre.
This horror has affected me greatly....I couldn't watch the poor wee innocent being harassed and taken to its demise...I've fallen out with people I thought I knew...... How can anyone think this is ok... The way the Gestapo defra dealt with this was appalling, and I hope it harms their name greatly.....GERONIMO was a pawn in a shit game of political chess....and I'm never going to forget that.
@@showardnutrition people you think you know having a cold heart towards this poor creature....I can't be the same with them anymore, so I've cut all ties....and feel better for it.....
@@edvanlang9850 I did the exact same thing when we witnessed police murdering a person in the street, with no accountability. I blocked many friends and even family, after seeing their opinion on social media. They're entitled to their opinion, but I don't need to see it. For some, that was my only contact with them, and I don't regret it either. Striking similarities in some respects. With power comes great responsibility.
I was left sick to my stomach seeing the way they treated that poor animal. He didn't understand, only knew that he was being separated from his wonderful world. If this had been a court case for a human, the evidence would have been inconclusive and the case dropped. I hope you can refocus your depression in to something positive on the subjects you mentioned. Big hugs to you Chris and thank you for sharing xx
I feel so disgusted with this country atm, Where do they draw the line? My thoughts are with the poor lady who looked after this pet and now mourns its loss... I''ve just spoken to a rep from Defra and they have read out a statement and terminated the call, I am now mourning that termination... A power unto themselves i think..
I am still in shock, words can't describe the disgusting, barbaric behaviour of defra officials at the scene. Cruelty charges should be made against each of them. 😠😢
It is difficult to balance anger at the dairy and beef industries with compassion and recognition that change has to happen slowly. I know that I am too quick to demonise farmers as a whole because of how involved in the protection of badgers I am, but listening to your take on the situation has been enlightening. Thank you for increasing our understanding of this crisis - it places all of us in a better position to oppose these monstrosities in a more measured and productive way. It is a very depressing example of how cruel humans can be, but you are helping to make a difference. I hope that you are able to realise and remember this when you feel especially low.
I am total alignment with your views on this, Chris. If I could say one thing, to you, it is that we can take heart from a very substantive community in the UK that share our views with the incumbent desire for change. This represents a phenomenal opportunity to change what is wrong. Your voice as one of the leading lights of this community will help many others add their voice to this cause and this will, ultimately, be instrumental in making that change happen sooner rather than later. This was a bad day but perhaps it will bring change a little bit closer. Keep up the fantastic work :)
Totally support this and solidarity with the entire framing around our relationships with our companions. Just one thought the background over testing which detects antibodies of BTB but which can be confused with active BTB, have we been given a full understanding of how this issue has played out here?
Here here Chris. You summed it all up perfectly. Science-based decision-making SHOULD be the only means by which actions are taken - but politics and money are always the greatest influencers. Depressingly, I'm not certain there will ever be a way out of this trap considering the modern nature of society and culture. All we can do is keep fighting against the injustices and the unjust. Stay strong Chris, and keep fighting the good fight, as yours is an honest one. xx
I really don’t understand how DEFRA could ignore the fact that Geronimo was declared bTB positive 4 years ago but never displayed any symptoms of the disease in that time. If he had TB four years ago surely he should have died of it long ago? The arrogance of DEFRA not allowing a third definitive test astounds me. Much sympathy to Helen from a fellow South Gloucestershire resident.
I deeply regret watching his final video, but I wish he could have been sedated or tranquilised at least if it had to happen. His scared sounds haunted me for a long while, and I still tear up thinking about it. If he has been healthy from 2017, I don't believe he was a threat, and didn't need be culled.
Yes. They use science based decision when it comes to covid and humans. But not animals. During covid wasn't there cats or dog that contracted covid. Were they put down or are they still living???
They were too aggressive and it was upsetting.I can't understand their behaviour. Defra are making.dreadful mistakes which is surprising as they are full of experts. Who were.these people as they have zero understanding of how to handle these.beautiful creatures. Very sad
Chris, I don't understand why the UK does not vaccinate against TB. I remember my Dad, a dairy farmer in New York State, had his entire herd of 80 - 100 vaccinated against TB. two days ago my beloved dog had to go to sleep and I am so sad.
I totally agree Chris, We are meant to be the superior race yet we are going backwards not forwards, I felt sick to see the panic in the animals eyes, it’s bad enough that they killed him but what a inhuman way to do this, I am now 60 and thought by now I could cope with seeing things like this, but for many now in this world life of anything has no value, new day tomorrow and let hope it’s a brighter one.
Geronimo should never have been treated in such a bad way,DEFRA are disgusting vile heartless people who are not fit to be on this earth,Never in all my life have I seen such cruelty directed towards a gentle animal who was a much loved pet,DEFRA people will Never forget
I also agree with your end comments that not all who work in DEFRA can be blamed for this terrible cruelty to Geronimo even Pen Farthing said DEFRA had helped him greatly with his rescued dogs and cats on arrival in the UK , but yes this was criminal and those responsible must be brought to trial for animal cruelty .
We need more people like Chris Packham, who’s never afraid to speak his mind and stand up for animal rights. I do agree that his criticism of DEFRA is justified. However I don’t agree with his stance on George Eustice, which was lenient, considering that Eustice had the power to stop the killing of Geronimo and failed to do so.
George Eustice was complicit explaining the decision was arduous but necessary to destroy this Darling Boy: Chris is being over generous about him... and the so-called Defra vets? handled him in an appalling fashion as bad or worse than had Geronimo been sent to an abattoir. Where indeed was the RSPCA watching on: will they prosecute or investigate this abject cruelty... ''don't hold your breath...''
@@keithvon1 If you’re a popular public figure and then criticise the government, I guess you have to choose your words carefully. But his response did seem a bit muted, considering Chris had been actively campaigning against Geronimo’s killing. What didn’t sit with me was that he was saying Geronimo’s killing made him feel depressed, yet he seemed to be supportive of Eustice - who was instrumental in having him killed. But I totally agree with you that what happened was cruel.
I have watched the footage The police and vets are chasing this poor vulnerable alpaca this is a special needs animal all animals are special needs this really broke my heart 💔 the way the vets man handled him was disgusting poor Geronimo was so scared it would have caused him Anxiety I feel depressed watching that footage Rip Geronimo 😥❤️
Thanks I have posted this lady a sympathy card. It upset many indeed. It was so cold and how it was done with police and geronimo knew and they dragged this sweetheart. It is worse we saw it, but I am glad we did. There are antibiotics for T B . I am sorry as an animal lover and yes, it's like a gang turning up and dragging my cat away, how cruel, but thanks for you tube and cameras as not hide it. It really made me want to help, geronimo will be a legacy and I can understand how farmers feel when there animals are destroyed like the economy being destroyed, we all follow different stories, but this really opens your eyes and I love sheep, pigs, bears, dogs, etc and kindness costs nothing to an animal
Sorry Chris, you are being far too lenient to the meat industry and farmers. What happened to Gironimo is of course distressing, but what about the several billion animals NEEDLESSLY slaughtered for meat in the UK each year? Animals that are abused and suffer horribly for no reason than so people can feast on their flesh. I know you are vegan so share this horror. I’m afraid one alpaca needlessly slaughtered is sad, but the billion others should no go unmentioned. How many animals died this year so Helen MacDonald could eat them? She is as guilty as everyone else that supports this barbaric industry. If we stop abusing cows, bTB won’t be a problem anymore. Needless deaths for meat in the UK each year 1 billion chickens 15 million turkeys 3 million cattle 11 million pigs 14 million ducks 14 million sheep 900 million fish 4 billion shellfish
You had me until you started talking about ‘humane farmers’. We have NO right to take the life of any animal whether ’humanely’ or not. This is the same mentality as DEFRA’s decision to murder Geronimo. You know farmers who ‘nurture’ and raise animals for slaughter and then have no problem profiting from the murder of the animals they ‘nurtured’. You can’t even hear how disturbing that mentality is. You claim DEFRA is arrogant and then you talk about killing animals for slaughter without a thought of what the animal wants. Believe it or not, animals do not want to die for you and end up on your plate. They have their own lives and their own purpose and it has nothing to do with what humans want. In truth, (and not some made-up twisted human law) we have as much right to murder an animal for food as we do a person for any reason. You have a long way to go before you see the truth. This is speciesism, plain and simple.
I understand that people feel emotional about the loss of a valued animal but it's wrong to characterise the treatment of Geronimo as appalling cruelty. Euthanasia in its self is not a welfare problem. The euthanasia of Germonimo would have been a lot less stressful if there had not been shouting protestors and a media circus. There is no way the vets could have gone through with the euthanasia in front of everyone in those circumstances. As far as whether the test was right or wrong, why not explain in detail why you think the Enferplex test should not be trusted and what better alternatives exist to detect bTB? Also please explain what a better alternative is for dealing with positive cases? I think even for people with some education in public/animal health bTB is not a easy subject to understand. I would like to understand it better myself and I have some significant education in this area. When I look for responses to this controversy all there seems to be is emotional responses to the sad loss of a valued animal. I understand that but very difficult decisions have to be made and being sad doesn't change that. I want to know what people who are against the current bTB strategy suggest DEFRA do differently specifically and why? What is the better way? The DEFRA vets had a very difficult job in dealing with this and I think they deserve better than to be accused of cruelty.
CP, thank you, very well said. Having spent years on my grandparents farm in Michigan, my grandfather was organic before organic was a word; as such, shortly after I moved to the UK, I started working/living on an organic dairy farm, educational center, charity. I then became dairy manager (a small on site building with small holding/family farm set up for pasteurization, processing, bottling, label etc) when the farm agreed to assist with an amazing project, called AHIMSA...a word that means "slaughter free". Started by a lovely group of people from an HKrishna facility, who believe lives of cows deserve to be given much higher standards. The farm had their own herd, and the group started with a small herd of 10, which were milked seperate, treated differently from the big herd that I was also running milk production for. With a partner/farm/facility to help get this project off the ground, to help them gain support to build a bigger future, what started as a short term 1-2 year contract, lasted much longer, but also helped them save, find purchase land to set up themselves, and as all the Soil Association Organic certification standards already in place, it made sense to start this way. More importantly, it allowed the sharing education with the public on what Slaughter Free Dairy meant. It simply meant all organic standards were held with higher standards than any govt mandate, for the cows well-being, that they deserved a full, long, natural life/end. Older cows retired to pastures, not culled; calves spend their entire childhood with mum, not separated, nor culled, nor raised as veal. Male calves then train at Ox school for work on another farms/facilities, females stay with matriarch, family oriented female herd. I was truly humbled and honoured to be a part of the start up years; and they now have their own land, farm, and producing dairy products, much more than milk, cheese, yogurt type drinks etc. They have events, open days, and an upcoming festival (they also have a Twitter under Ahimsa), and they continue to share what imo is one of he most important ideas in farming, food production, than since the "Organic" movement started. We/they faced extraordinary challenges with Bvt as not only "Organic" status changes the antibiotics/testing, but the core aspects of Ahimsa also presented challenges, esp when they finally were able to open their new facility, to suddenly have a cow in the herd test positive. The fact they came through it, and continue to flourish and grow today, is an inspiration. Whilst I agree with SOME of what Chris says, I would never have let my own beloved cherished pets, farm or wildlife rehab animals suffer such an horrific end. Once it was known I was fighting govt, a futile fight unable to win, I would have quietly, privately, alone at home, taken matters into my own hands. Even today I still have a vet on speed dial in the event of an emergency, unexpected accident/euthanasia need; as after have a beloved moggy die in my arms, and even as a farm child, later, an off grid self sustaining adult, then UK life, farm, rescue/rehab worker, Ive always put animals well-being a priority. Whilst I don't attach human emotion, I still know they are special, living creatures WITH feelings, and why I agree with you,... and cross for Chris for not addressing this. Like myself, perhaps you, he may be reluctant, afraid of emotional backlash to our such comments...but he has a better platform to use it, and he shouldn't pick just the crowd appeasing way out. That said, a sad event all around, and gives us all pause to think about what we might be able to do to help change things. Having different views, whether a no meat/animal or meat eater, it's not about "us/them", and hope those with alternate views but with the same level of compassion, can join for a bigger purpose. Cheers and warmest Karma hugs to all. LB
I do believe that the post mortem, showed no signs whatsoever of BTB which shows a major problem with the test that 4 yrs ago showed he had BTB, because it doesn't just disappear.
@@michaeldyas769 I dont presume to ever have questioned whether the test was right or not. My observation was that as a beloved pet, I would not have put them through the trauma to fight a case that at this time, was known to not be won. Fight the good fight, I am all for it, yes! But not at the expense of a much beloved animals last moments, using them, their agony to highlight a cause or agenda. Indeed, hours, days, months, was how long that poor beautiful creature suffered through, and they deserved a much better passing, whether the laws were right or wrong. As it was an inevitable order, I could never use or put my loved animals through such pain, only to pursue a cause at their expense. People may disagree, and that's fine, they can fight the good fight however they choose, but I feel I can use other means, methods and platforms to continue an fight against such flawed testing and the repercussions. But would I ever use my own beloved pet to make what has been only a very small point in such a huge controversy, hell no. I would have them die peacefully, quietly, in my arms, at home, surrounded with loved ones in a stress free environment. My pets trust me to carry for THEM through life and death, and as such, they are NOT media fodder, no matter what the 'cause' is...I can find so many other ways to address that. Putting my beloved animals though that hell is not one of them.
Maybe you should be angry at the owner for allowing a media circus and inviting the animals rights screaming and shouting, stressing the animal out. She could of done it properly, stress free. But no, she wanted a media circus. She has no compassion for animals, she showed no respect. Not DEFRA, have a go at her.
@@djr301074 not spiteful, just realistic. Why did she invite the media and animal rights shouting and screaming stressing it out. If she cares for animals she would of just got it done quietly and professionally. Minimal stress
There was someone shouting from the other side, police or vet, I wasn't sure who, and I'm certainly not watching it again.. I don't believe anyone should have been in that field, other than the owner. Why did a vet not have a tranquilliser dart? I swear I heard a taser being used at one point. His screams were awful, sound like a child crying.
100% Chris. Shocked and disgusted about the entire story. Is this really our Great Britain today? Shame on DEFRA
As always, the voice of reason, good sense & knowledge. Thank you Chris for being a spokesman for so many of us and sharing your feelings. Yesterday was one of the most distressing things I've ever seen in my 3 score years and 10, and this after a career in frontline NHS 😥
I've already commented on FB about this appalling decision and the way it was carried out but just want to send you some care as well as although it IS horribly depressing YOU are making a difference and people are waking up and we have to remain as positive as we can to the last breath. Love what you do.
It was absolutely heart breaking. He was terrified. So barbaric.
Totally agree Chris : like you, the events of Defra’s assault on the poor animal and total lack of empathy, affected me greatly and leave me feeling so depressed. My overriding feeling is , these Defra people acted in anger , determined to show that no one can push them around. I hate to think of how they treated him away from the cameras in his last moments.
Last year Boris let in 1million migrants. These people need houses, cars, food and create waste and pollution and energy. Immigration damages the environment.
So distressing to watch this whole event unfold. Chris has summed it up perfectly. A sad day for mankind.
Totally agree this was disgraceful, inhumane, cruel and disgusting what happened to Geronimo, so heartbreaking💔the people who chased him down are evil with no compassion how can they live with themselves 💔
Last year Boris let in 1million migrants. These people need houses, cars, food and create waste and pollution and energy. Immigration damages the environment.
I sobbed watching Geronimo being traumatised and feel heart broken - this is insane behaviour from all of the institutions involved and cruelty beyond measure - I’m sorry Chris it has had such a devastating impact on your heart and left so much sadness with you...
DEFRA have lost all respect for me from this situation - I am sickened to my soul in this lack of humanity!
Helen must be overwhelmed...
In total agreement Chris. I totally feel your depression. So difficult to remain positive at the moment. I want to believe that things will get better. Hard to see when you're in a "low". We just have to stay strong and keep on "being kind". Thank you for your hard work, and wise words. Dont lose your spirit.❤🕊
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Chris. It's just so heartbreaking. I couldn't bear to watch the footage.
Me either. I cannot cope with this murder, I wouldn't watch a person led away to murder, can't watch it happen to an animal either.
Thank you so much for this Chris, my heart hurts for what happened to Geronimo
your compassion and intelligence shine through, although you are clearly suffering. So many of us feel the same as you. I hope you get through this very difficult time soon and are not overwhelmed. Sending 💚💚
I can’t comprehend why the test Helen wanted to have done wasn’t “allowed” or couldn’t be done independently.
This is a brutal outcome of a situation where a creature deemed to have been carrying a disease for four years with no symptoms, needs to be investigated, particularly with regards to no independent presence at a post mortem. The images of Geronimo being tied, dragged and pushed to his slaughter is hard to eradicate from my mind.
The truth will come out in Geronimo’s name.
Thank you Chris for your voice. You speak for millions of us. I feel your pain. Sending love and strength ❤️🙏🏻
I adore all animals and the natural world. It's so sad. If he had to go he should of gone in a much more peaceful way. Shame on these people. It's always the animals that suffer. RIP little fella. X
The post mortem showed no sign of bovine TB. How many other healthy animals have been murdered by DEFRA?
It is so sad so many children in Donegal this year have had their photo taken and hugged these beautiful animals that are so gentle
Sorry to hear your feeling low Chris, surely by not allowing an independent vet be present at autopsy will make it look like they are trying to hide things.
KEEP YOUR CHIN UP CHRIS THINKING OF YOU CYBER HUGS.
Thank you for all you do 💔
What a mess, and all so easily avoidable had they actually thought about it for more than 5 minutes. Hope you start to feel better soon Chris.
Hi Chris. I feel exactly the same. I'm still in total shock that Defra could treat this gentle animal with such barbarity in front the the world's media. We would never treat a human being like this! I hope the people responsible are charged with cruelty. RIP Geronimo.
Heartbreaking for us that care for all animals .. 💔
GOD BLESS YOU .WE AS A NATION LOVE YOU AND ALL YOU STAND FOR. YOU WORD THINGS SO ACCURATELY .
The loss of nuance in decision making. In society. An ever present evil.
This is true
Absolutely 💯 percent agree with Chris
Geronimo was a living breathing innocent animal that didn't deserve the vile abuse and cruel behaviour of how he was treated 💔
So depressing although we knew the outcome ., it is still upsetting to read and watch the agony of his owner and countless innocent badgers and others that have been slaughtered and still no proof of TB.
Today was a sad day of showing how cruel and heartless humans are now becoming
Thank you for summing this up so eloquently Chris. You're a true inspiration - I certainly support your campaigns!
Thank you so much Mr Packham. Thank you as you are respected where as us animal rights people are treated disgracefully and not heard. We are the compassionate people, we are not cruel murderers like those monsters, yet we are demonised, criminalised and sent to jail. The police presence was absolutely out of proportion for a small group of bunny huggy terrorists who wanted to save an innocent, bTB free animal from being murdered! The lanes we blocked in 2 places with countless police. It was horrendous and barbaric for our boy. Absolute outrage but our voices mean nothing. We are the "voiceless for the voiceless" so thankyou for using yours. Love, strength and respect 🙏
Well said sir- you have more common sense and decency in your little finger than the while of the government- and so much more eloquence.
Thank you Chris that sums it up for me so sad too and Time democracy was put back in the hands of and for the public interest.
The fact DEFRA won't allow an independent Vet to be present at the PM should tell you the way this is going to end.
I understand where Chris is coming from and I hope that he is right that we can make progress. Kindness does seem to be a good guiding principle but when does kindness become toleration of something as horrific as yesterday’s execution of a healthy animal dragged away from his home? It is a fine line and a difficult judgement, and hard to tell someone like Helen MacDonald , who has suffered an atrocity like that to be kind or restrained.
A very moving video with so much compassion for everyone affected by this brutality at the hands of DEFRA. I feel so sad that the shocking scenes we all witnessed has left thousands of people feeling depressed, shocked and very very angry due to the incompetence and barbaric way in which Geronimo was treated. Nothing should ever end this way. Like you, I have been very depressed and tearful since and those horrific scenes will haunt me forever. I am a psychotherapist and am used to hearing dreadful stories but never have I been so affected as I am about Geronimo. It will take us all a long time to find any positives in anything this government does and the fact that Defra will not disclose the PM results just adds insult to injury for Helen McDonald and everyone who supports this very strong lady. Love & strength to you and all who have been deeply affected by this horrific case. RIP Geronimo, we all loved you and we are sorry that human beings let you down so badly❤️❤️
I feel exactly the same images that will not go away. I have been reading a tabloid newspaper (Independent) report Helen McDonald says she will not rest until she knows how her darling boy died and finding out who the vets were that carried out this despicable torture on Geronimo in his final pathetic hours... thus they should be struck off. Saddened I be Ms Cullum by it all.
We lovers of Geronimo and Mrs Helen Macdonald are all feeling your pain too so you are not alone chris, it shows how much we care and that we are the good people! All we can do now is keep fighting for justice and not to give up! We will not forget about this like Defra is thinking and hoping, it was totally out of our control and we all did as much as we possibly could! I sent a very angry email to Defra last night that's for sure, I will not give up and Chris please keep fighting for animal rights too, grieve for a little while then fight back! Please take care of yourself and know that you are not alone!!! You are such a lovely and caring person and you should be proud of yourself! Sending my love X
Thank goodness we have @ChrisPackham to speak so eloquently about issues like this. I'm often just reduced to expletives and tears, which doesn't help. Let's all do what we can to campaign on these issues. It all boils down to how we see and treat animals as expendible "things" and pick and choose who (people and animals!) are valued.
Thank you Chris for this heartfelt message. It helped me enormously. To understand what was really going on as I don’t feel I truly understood it. I feel enlightened and of course saddened now and angry at DEFRA and the decision made against any true democratic sense. Thoughts with you x
JUSTICE FOR GERONIMO! As an alpaca breeder in NZ (Geronimo's homeland) words cannot express the immense sadness I feel for Geronimo and Helen, and the extreme anger I feel for those louts that took him away. If any of them were vets, they have broken the vet code of conduct. And those wearing hazmat suits obviously too scared to be recognised in case of public reprisal because they KNEW what they were doing was wrong. They certainly didn't need the suits to prevent catching TB otherwise why weren't the police similarly suited up. And the press were all over his paddock - no bio security there. And not allowing independent vet to be present at the autopsy - words fail me. Any result showing positive is NOT TO BE BELIEVED. The big question is Was Geronimo still alive when he arrived at his destination. The way he was tied up so he couldn't sit down (as alpacas normally do when they are transported) and that the calf rope was too low down over his nose meaning he couldn't breathe properly leaves a 50% chance that he died either of asphyxiation or by hanging himself before he arrived at the destination. I never leave my alpacas tied up when I transport them in the float. DISGUSTED EX BRIT
Strongly agree with you, Chris. The horrendous cruelties, lack of humility and compassion in our society are sometimes overwhelming. That's why we are so thankful that you, Wild Justice and many others are showing a lead in how to create change for the better. Hang in there, we need you, we support you and we should all make our voices heard. Especially over this incident as it exposes a great knot of issues, as you point out - ineffective bovine Tb testing, badger scapegoating and killing, the huge numbers of cattle tested positive and killed and the terrible distress so many suffer because of it all. How do we best let DEFRA know their actions are completely unacceptable? How do we raise enormous public pressure?
They could at least given him a shot of drugs to calm him or let him sleep to lessen anxiety.
I know you are not keen on hugs, but I hope you don't mind me sending a virtual hug and my COMPLETE understanding of everything you said and feel.
Not sure a cup of tea will help, it's there anyway.
Keep compassion and respect in every decision that we make x x
Totally agree with everything you say Chris. Disgraceful act and so very cruel to both Geronimo and Helen 😥. Shame on you Defra 😡. Chris, sorry to hear that you are feeling so down at the moment.
I can't understand why they wouldn't allow an independent vet to be present at the post mortem? I understood that the owner had this right (after they'd murdered her animal)??? I seriously can't cope with this whole situation. Thank you, Chris, for verbalising your emotions in a way I couldn't. I hope you feel better after this, I will follow your lead and try to remain calm and kind going forward. But it hurts so bad. I can't imagine how his owner and herd are feeling rn. 😭
Beautifully said. ♥️
I think the way it was carried out was obviously cruel and unnecessary. But the thing that bothered me most was seeing how caught up people got in one animal like that when they don’t pay any attention at all to the fact that the climate crisis is going to lead to the likely extinctions of so many species and complete devastation for ourselves. It’s just bizarre.
Totally agree with you, Chris. It was heartbreaking watching the poor animal being led away.
Sending you best wishes.
Thank you Chris xx
This horror has affected me greatly....I couldn't watch the poor wee innocent being harassed and taken to its demise...I've fallen out with people I thought I knew......
How can anyone think this is ok...
The way the Gestapo defra dealt with this was appalling, and I hope it harms their name greatly.....GERONIMO was a pawn in a shit game of political chess....and I'm never going to forget that.
Well said. I agree.
Sorry to hear you've fallen out with people over this. It's such an emotive issue, I can understand why.
@@showardnutrition people you think you know having a cold heart towards this poor creature....I can't be the same with them anymore, so I've cut all ties....and feel better for it.....
@@edvanlang9850 I did the exact same thing when we witnessed police murdering a person in the street, with no accountability. I blocked many friends and even family, after seeing their opinion on social media. They're entitled to their opinion, but I don't need to see it. For some, that was my only contact with them, and I don't regret it either. Striking similarities in some respects.
With power comes great responsibility.
@@purplepixie274 agreed......sometimes you never find out what lies beneath some people, but sometimes you do......I also have absolutely no regrets..
Keep up your great work Chris. Take care of yourself and always keep your chin up x
I was left sick to my stomach seeing the way they treated that poor animal. He didn't understand, only knew that he was being separated from his wonderful world.
If this had been a court case for a human, the evidence would have been inconclusive and the case dropped.
I hope you can refocus your depression in to something positive on the subjects you mentioned. Big hugs to you Chris and thank you for sharing xx
I absolutely agree Chris. I was shocked by the scenes, and felt so sorry for that poor animal.
I feel so disgusted with this country atm, Where do they draw the line? My thoughts are with the poor lady who looked after this pet and now mourns its loss... I''ve just spoken to a rep from Defra and they have read out a statement and terminated the call, I am now mourning that termination... A power unto themselves i think..
Keep up the good work Chris your very brave mate
I am still in shock, words can't describe the disgusting, barbaric behaviour of defra officials at the scene. Cruelty charges should be made against each of them. 😠😢
It is difficult to balance anger at the dairy and beef industries with compassion and recognition that change has to happen slowly. I know that I am too quick to demonise farmers as a whole because of how involved in the protection of badgers I am, but listening to your take on the situation has been enlightening. Thank you for increasing our understanding of this crisis - it places all of us in a better position to oppose these monstrosities in a more measured and productive way. It is a very depressing example of how cruel humans can be, but you are helping to make a difference. I hope that you are able to realise and remember this when you feel especially low.
I am total alignment with your views on this, Chris. If I could say one thing, to you, it is that we can take heart from a very substantive community in the UK that share our views with the incumbent desire for change. This represents a phenomenal opportunity to change what is wrong. Your voice as one of the leading lights of this community will help many others add their voice to this cause and this will, ultimately, be instrumental in making that change happen sooner rather than later. This was a bad day but perhaps it will bring change a little bit closer. Keep up the fantastic work :)
Totally support this and solidarity with the entire framing around our relationships with our companions. Just one thought the background over testing which detects antibodies of BTB but which can be confused with active BTB, have we been given a full understanding of how this issue has played out here?
Here here Chris. You summed it all up perfectly. Science-based decision-making SHOULD be the only means by which actions are taken - but politics and money are always the greatest influencers. Depressingly, I'm not certain there will ever be a way out of this trap considering the modern nature of society and culture. All we can do is keep fighting against the injustices and the unjust. Stay strong Chris, and keep fighting the good fight, as yours is an honest one. xx
Well said that man
Totally agree with all you have said. Also feel the same, helpless. So sad! 😥😢
I really don’t understand how DEFRA could ignore the fact that Geronimo was declared bTB positive 4 years ago but never displayed any symptoms of the disease in that time. If he had TB four years ago surely he should have died of it long ago? The arrogance of DEFRA not allowing a third definitive test astounds me. Much sympathy to Helen from a fellow South Gloucestershire resident.
Totally agree with everything you have said in this video, Chris. Thank you.
Can’t catch my breathe 😞Peace🙏🏻
I deeply regret watching his final video, but I wish he could have been sedated or tranquilised at least if it had to happen. His scared sounds haunted me for a long while, and I still tear up thinking about it. If he has been healthy from 2017, I don't believe he was a threat, and didn't need be culled.
Absolutely gutted Chris. 😢♥️
well said Chris i agree with you.
Just like palefaces treated his namesake, the last Apache Warrior!
Wake up zombies coz this is about to happen to all of us resisting the Venom Shots!
???
Sorry to hear this sorry affair has tipped you into depression….wish you well and agree with your evaluation of this situation.
Yes. They use science based decision when it comes to covid and humans. But not animals. During covid wasn't there cats or dog that contracted covid. Were they put down or are they still living???
And now they are saying Geronimo didn't have TB. What a suprise, not. Heartbroken.
They were too aggressive and it was upsetting.I can't understand their behaviour. Defra are making.dreadful mistakes which is surprising as they are full of experts. Who were.these people as they have zero understanding of how to handle these.beautiful creatures. Very sad
Chris, I don't understand why the UK does not vaccinate against TB. I remember my Dad, a dairy farmer in New York State, had his entire herd of 80 - 100 vaccinated against TB. two days ago my beloved dog had to go to sleep and I am so sad.
Pecos paul kele! 😂😂😂😂
I totally agree Chris, We are meant to be the superior race yet we are going backwards not forwards, I felt sick to see the panic in the animals eyes, it’s bad enough that they killed him but what a inhuman way to do this, I am now 60 and thought by now I could cope with seeing things like this, but for many now in this world life of anything has no value, new day tomorrow and let hope it’s a brighter one.
Geronimo should never have been treated in such a bad way,DEFRA are disgusting vile heartless people who are not fit to be on this earth,Never in all my life have I seen such cruelty directed towards a gentle animal who was a much loved pet,DEFRA people will Never forget
I also agree with your end comments that not all who work in DEFRA can be blamed for this terrible cruelty to Geronimo even Pen Farthing said DEFRA had helped him greatly with his rescued dogs and cats on arrival in the UK , but yes this was criminal and those responsible must be brought to trial for animal cruelty .
We need more people like Chris Packham, who’s never afraid to speak his mind and stand up for animal rights. I do agree that his criticism of DEFRA is justified. However I don’t agree with his stance on George Eustice, which was lenient, considering that Eustice had the power to stop the killing of Geronimo and failed to do so.
George Eustice was complicit explaining the decision was arduous but necessary to destroy this Darling Boy: Chris is being over generous about him... and the so-called Defra vets? handled him in an appalling fashion as bad or worse than had Geronimo been sent to an abattoir. Where indeed was the RSPCA watching on: will they prosecute or investigate this abject cruelty... ''don't hold your breath...''
@@keithvon1 If you’re a popular public figure and then criticise the government, I guess you have to choose your words carefully. But his response did seem a bit muted, considering Chris had been actively campaigning against Geronimo’s killing. What didn’t sit with me was that he was saying Geronimo’s killing made him feel depressed, yet he seemed to be supportive of Eustice - who was instrumental in having him killed. But I totally agree with you that what happened was cruel.
You're a top bloke chris, Watch some Robert E Fuller video's👍❤️ They are full of Hope😄
I am so angry that words fail me
I have watched the footage The police and vets are chasing this poor vulnerable alpaca this is a special needs animal all animals are special needs this really broke my heart 💔 the way the vets man handled him was disgusting poor Geronimo was so scared it would have caused him Anxiety I feel depressed watching that footage Rip Geronimo 😥❤️
hello mr. pecos poul kele greetihgs from chile
Thanks I have posted this lady a sympathy card. It upset many indeed. It was so cold and how it was done with police and geronimo knew and they dragged this sweetheart. It is worse we saw it, but I am glad we did. There are antibiotics for T B . I am sorry as an animal lover and yes, it's like a gang turning up and dragging my cat away, how cruel, but thanks for you tube and cameras as not hide it. It really made me want to help, geronimo will be a legacy and I can understand how farmers feel when there animals are destroyed like the economy being destroyed, we all follow different stories, but this really opens your eyes and I love sheep, pigs, bears, dogs, etc and kindness costs nothing to an animal
Regarding DEFRA: The lack of accountability is staggering. This pr disaster will bring about change.
Hope you're feeling better soon.
El tio Pecos.
agree
❤
Pekos pal que lee 👌👌👌
Sorry Chris, you are being far too lenient to the meat industry and farmers. What happened to Gironimo is of course distressing, but what about the several billion animals NEEDLESSLY slaughtered for meat in the UK each year? Animals that are abused and suffer horribly for no reason than so people can feast on their flesh. I know you are vegan so share this horror. I’m afraid one alpaca needlessly slaughtered is sad, but the billion others should no go unmentioned. How many animals died this year so Helen MacDonald could eat them? She is as guilty as everyone else that supports this barbaric industry. If we stop abusing cows, bTB won’t be a problem anymore. Needless deaths for meat in the UK each year
1 billion chickens
15 million turkeys
3 million cattle
11 million pigs
14 million ducks
14 million sheep
900 million fish
4 billion shellfish
You had me until you started talking about ‘humane farmers’. We have NO right to take the life of any animal whether ’humanely’ or not. This is the same mentality as DEFRA’s decision to murder Geronimo. You know farmers who ‘nurture’ and raise animals for slaughter and then have no problem profiting from the murder of the animals they ‘nurtured’. You can’t even hear how disturbing that mentality is. You claim DEFRA is arrogant and then you talk about killing animals for slaughter without a thought of what the animal wants. Believe it or not, animals do not want to die for you and end up on your plate. They have their own lives and their own purpose and it has nothing to do with what humans want. In truth, (and not some made-up twisted human law) we have as much right to murder an animal for food as we do a person for any reason. You have a long way to go before you see the truth. This is speciesism, plain and simple.
Pecos Paul kele
I understand that people feel emotional about the loss of a valued animal but it's wrong to characterise the treatment of Geronimo as appalling cruelty. Euthanasia in its self is not a welfare problem. The euthanasia of Germonimo would have been a lot less stressful if there had not been shouting protestors and a media circus. There is no way the vets could have gone through with the euthanasia in front of everyone in those circumstances. As far as whether the test was right or wrong, why not explain in detail why you think the Enferplex test should not be trusted and what better alternatives exist to detect bTB? Also please explain what a better alternative is for dealing with positive cases? I think even for people with some education in public/animal health bTB is not a easy subject to understand. I would like to understand it better myself and I have some significant education in this area. When I look for responses to this controversy all there seems to be is emotional responses to the sad loss of a valued animal. I understand that but very difficult decisions have to be made and being sad doesn't change that. I want to know what people who are against the current bTB strategy suggest DEFRA do differently specifically and why? What is the better way? The DEFRA vets had a very difficult job in dealing with this and I think they deserve better than to be accused of cruelty.
CP, thank you, very well said. Having spent years on my grandparents farm in Michigan, my grandfather was organic before organic was a word; as such, shortly after I moved to the UK, I started working/living on an organic dairy farm, educational center, charity. I then became dairy manager (a small on site building with small holding/family farm set up for pasteurization, processing, bottling, label etc) when the farm agreed to assist with an amazing project, called AHIMSA...a word that means "slaughter free". Started by a lovely group of people from an HKrishna facility, who believe lives of cows deserve to be given much higher standards. The farm had their own herd, and the group started with a small herd of 10, which were milked seperate, treated differently from the big herd that I was also running milk production for. With a partner/farm/facility to help get this project off the ground, to help them gain support to build a bigger future, what started as a short term 1-2 year contract, lasted much longer, but also helped them save, find purchase land to set up themselves, and as all the Soil Association Organic certification standards already in place, it made sense to start this way. More importantly, it allowed the sharing education with the public on what Slaughter Free Dairy meant. It simply meant all organic standards were held with higher standards than any govt mandate, for the cows well-being, that they deserved a full, long, natural life/end. Older cows retired to pastures, not culled; calves spend their entire childhood with mum, not separated, nor culled, nor raised as veal. Male calves then train at Ox school for work on another farms/facilities, females stay with matriarch, family oriented female herd. I was truly humbled and honoured to be a part of the start up years; and they now have their own land, farm, and producing dairy products, much more than milk, cheese, yogurt type drinks etc. They have events, open days, and an upcoming festival (they also have a Twitter under Ahimsa), and they continue to share what imo is one of he most important ideas in farming, food production, than since the "Organic" movement started. We/they faced extraordinary challenges with Bvt as not only "Organic" status changes the antibiotics/testing, but the core aspects of Ahimsa also presented challenges, esp when they finally were able to open their new facility, to suddenly have a cow in the herd test positive. The fact they came through it, and continue to flourish and grow today, is an inspiration. Whilst I agree with SOME of what Chris says, I would never have let my own beloved cherished pets, farm or wildlife rehab animals suffer such an horrific end. Once it was known I was fighting govt, a futile fight unable to win, I would have quietly, privately, alone at home, taken matters into my own hands. Even today I still have a vet on speed dial in the event of an emergency, unexpected accident/euthanasia need; as after have a beloved moggy die in my arms, and even as a farm child, later, an off grid self sustaining adult, then UK life, farm, rescue/rehab worker, Ive always put animals well-being a priority. Whilst I don't attach human emotion, I still know they are special, living creatures WITH feelings, and why I agree with you,... and cross for Chris for not addressing this. Like myself, perhaps you, he may be reluctant, afraid of emotional backlash to our such comments...but he has a better platform to use it, and he shouldn't pick just the crowd appeasing way out. That said, a sad event all around, and gives us all pause to think about what we might be able to do to help change things. Having different views, whether a no meat/animal or meat eater, it's not about "us/them", and hope those with alternate views but with the same level of compassion, can join for a bigger purpose. Cheers and warmest Karma hugs to all. LB
I do believe that the post mortem, showed no signs whatsoever of BTB which shows a major problem with the test that 4 yrs ago showed he had BTB, because it doesn't just disappear.
@@michaeldyas769 I dont presume to ever have questioned whether the test was right or not. My observation was that as a beloved pet, I would not have put them through the trauma to fight a case that at this time, was known to not be won. Fight the good fight, I am all for it, yes! But not at the expense of a much beloved animals last moments, using them, their agony to highlight a cause or agenda. Indeed, hours, days, months, was how long that poor beautiful creature suffered through, and they deserved a much better passing, whether the laws were right or wrong. As it was an inevitable order, I could never use or put my loved animals through such pain, only to pursue a cause at their expense. People may disagree, and that's fine, they can fight the good fight however they choose, but I feel I can use other means, methods and platforms to continue an fight against such flawed testing and the repercussions. But would I ever use my own beloved pet to make what has been only a very small point in such a huge controversy, hell no. I would have them die peacefully, quietly, in my arms, at home, surrounded with loved ones in a stress free environment. My pets trust me to carry for THEM through life and death, and as such, they are NOT media fodder, no matter what the 'cause' is...I can find so many other ways to address that. Putting my beloved animals though that hell is not one of them.
Maybe you should be angry at the owner for allowing a media circus and inviting the animals rights screaming and shouting, stressing the animal out. She could of done it properly, stress free. But no, she wanted a media circus. She has no compassion for animals, she showed no respect. Not DEFRA, have a go at her.
David how can you be so spiteful? You are ill educated of the real facts about Geronimo and do not represent the hearts of this nation.
@@djr301074 not spiteful, just realistic. Why did she invite the media and animal rights shouting and screaming stressing it out. If she cares for animals she would of just got it done quietly and professionally. Minimal stress
There was someone shouting from the other side, police or vet, I wasn't sure who, and I'm certainly not watching it again.. I don't believe anyone should have been in that field, other than the owner. Why did a vet not have a tranquilliser dart? I swear I heard a taser being used at one point. His screams were awful, sound like a child crying.