Hushed Voices, Thunderous Cries

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by how its animals are treated,” Mahatma Gandhi.

Those words could not be any closer to the truth. As I was scrolling through the latest news stories, I encountered several new occurrences of animal neglect and abuse. Should this even be happening within this great nation? Should any human look at an animal and place that animal with the same value as dirt?

As ugly as it is, we can find examples of this menacing crime everywhere. Take Willie, a German Shepard who has all the reasons in the world to lose trust in any human being. Willie was only a puppy when he was exposed to horrible treatment that included being hit in the head with a metal pole any time he barked. His eyes sunk into their sockets from being pounded so much. His pen was also covered in feces and mud, with only the rare bowl of food thrown into the corner. You would think Willie would hold a grudge against all possible owners. However, he is now ten years old and lives with a loving couple by the beach. Nevertheless, we cannot forget that not all creatures have the happy ending that Willie was blessed with.

Every day, thousands upon thousands of animals are confronted with daily challenges that may or may not be the end of their lives. These threats range from puppy mills to fighting clubs. Dogs are forced to fight to the death for their owners’ enjoyment, who also bet on which dog they believe will survive.

If you get offended easily, please put the paper down or read a different column. The next few sentences may anger you.

Anyone who looks at any species of animal and thinks, “I want to purposely hurt that creature”, is sick. There may be some mental problems within the mind of America’s animal abusers. Just because animals do not have the ability to speak does not mean that they do not have feelings. If you are so cowardly as to take your problems out on an innocent creature, then you need to either get psychological help or just put yourself behind bars. Save our authorities the time and trouble.

Let us also look at what I often base my articles on, which would be our nation’s background. Does it not say in the first sentence of our Constitution that the people of the US are expected to “establish Justice” and “ensure domestic Tranquility”? Is it fair or just to treat any creature like this? Does it give animals a peace of mind or tranquility when their trusted owners welcome them with a hard fist and violent actions?

Of course, I am not saying animals are more important than humans, because Biblical passages tell us that. However, I am sternly supporting the fact that all creatures, paws or feet, snouts or noses, tails or not, are deserving of affection. I also firmly believe that God gave us, as humans, dominion over animals for food. However, if a cow is being raised for meat, I hope it sees proper feeding and green pastures in its lifetime.

If there ever comes a day, God forbid, that I intentionally hurt an animal, you know I am out of my right mind. I also hope that I would receive just punishment for my actions. Although, I could not even imagine letting my anger out on precious blessings that are my pets.

Just think about it this way: If you would protest against cramming people in cages, what makes it so different when it is an animal? They have no voices, that’s why WE are their voices. If you display tremendous affection to your beloved pet, I commend you. Thank you for showing hope to at least one more creature in this world.

I would love to see pictures of your pets or just hear from you via email. Thank you for reading.