Veterinary association to go ahead with fish toss team-building event at Seattle conference

Fish toss a go for veterinarians visiting Seattle

SEATTLE — Despite complaints from an animal-rights group, a national veterinary association says Seattle’s famed fishmongers will be tossing dead fish at its Seattle convention next month.

American Veterinary Medical Association CEO Ron DeHaven says his organization will proceed with a plan to host a team-building program offered by the famous fish-throwers of Seattle’s Pike Place Fish Market.

After People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals raised concerns about the ethics of using dead fish as props at a veterinary event, DeHaven said the AVMA would explore other options.

On Friday, DeHaven said his group supports the responsible use of animals for human purposes, such as food — and feels veterinarians are the best advocates for animals.

PETA spokeswoman Lindsay Rajt (REYT) says the organization will protest “this hideous stunt.”