Boy, I am surprised that Michael has chosen to revisit this topic, since it created so much controversy (and site traffic) some years ago.
In view of all the laments (see threads below) about how boring this site has become, is this an effort to infuse some life into a site whose time seems to have passed? Michael may have noticed -- as any reality TV producers could tell you -- that controversy is good for business.
I should also note the change in Michael's demeanor and tone about the subject; he is far less supportive of this inhumane practice, proving that efforts to educate the public about animal pain and suffering do bring about change.