With Americans obsession with pets and animals, it is no wonder that there are still several areas that many feel need to be corrected when it comes to Animal Rights. Though there have been many positive changes in how human beings have learned to co-exist with other species, there are many times that we still tend to exploit those who are unable to speak for themselves.
One of the first issues that has been slowly changing, is the use of exotic animals for entertainment — especially in traveling circuses. Due to intense public scrutiny in recent years, most circuses have promised to stop using elephants in these shows. These animals have proved to be too emotional and intelligent to be forced to handle the separations from their herd members while being forced to endure the noisy and disruptive crowds. After some high profile rampages that have occurred when these animals have reached the breaking point, it has been determined that it is cruel to force these magnificent creatures to submit to this miserable life.
Another industry that is slowly responding to pressure from the public is the use of animals for testing consumer products, most notably, cosmetic testing. This cruel practice is slowly becoming less common, but still occurs and causes the subjects to suffer intense and often debilitating pain, including blindness and constant inflammation. There are other alternatives that can ensure that consumers have safe products that do not come at an unconsciousable cost.
The use of gestation crates is thankfully becoming increasingly less popular. These devices are used for expectant and nursing sows in order to protect the piglets from being accidently crushed. Sadly, the crates are so confining that the sow is unable to turn around or move freely. Several chain restaurants have denounced the use of these inhumane cages and supposedly are refusing to buy meat products from companies that employ them in the raising of pigs for food.
Many pet owners are also working hard to eliminate the puppy mill industry. These cruel businesses employ the practice of breeding females to the point of physical exhaustion. The mother dogs are bred, give birth and then have the puppies removed at an early stage in order to bring the females back into estrous in order to breed them once again. Along with causing the female dog’s body to be depleted of vital minerals and nutrition, the mothers were often interbred with their offspring or other closely related animals in order to reproduce a desired trait. Sadly, the puppies often suffer serious congenital defects and serious illnesses. The result is that the pet owner is then saddled with a pet that will cost significant financial resources and will often lead to a shortened life span for a beloved pet.
There are other practices that Animal Rights activists are working to eliminate. In this current society, the way that we tend to treat those who cannot defend themselves speak volumes about who we are and how we perceive the world around us.
Writer Bio: Angela Mose
I am a mom of 7 who has successfully homeschooled for 20 years. I was married for more than 25 years and have recently started my life over. I have a passion for writing and music and when the two can be combined, it is utopia. A Maryland native, I am planning to relocate north in the near future and will continue to strive to learn and experience new things on a regular basis. I am fortunate enough to be able to work from home while exploring new ways to increase my knowledge and skills and help improve the lives of those around me.
