Animal Cruelty: Should Animals Have the Right to Protect Themselves Essay Example

industrial agribusiness regards farm animals as commodities rather than sentient beings capable of experiencing emotions and suffering (1 HSUS). Farms worldwide confine their animals in small cages and crates to maximize production numbers, often neglecting their welfare and forcing them into unnatural and inhumane activities such as excessive egg-laying for hens (2 HSUS). Instances of farming corporations prioritizing production numbers over animal welfare include confining farm animals in battery cages, gestation crates, and veal crates for extended periods.

The given example emphasizes that pigs may be kept in a barn, which can cause a decline in their personal development and ability to reproduce. Nevertheless, this can lead to an improvement in the overall performance of the entire herd (1 HSUS). Consequently, farmers are motivated to maintain the belief that restricting animal protection rights is advantageous. The main focus for farmers is the larger quantity of animals on their farms, resulting in increased rates of production. The welfare of the animals is not taken into account within this calculation. Ultimately, it comes down to their willingness to prioritize manufacturing standards over the well-being of their animals.

Many animal activists advocate for full protection rights for animals, both domestic and wild. They frequently campaign for animals to have the right to defend themselves, especially against humans. In the article "When the Law Recognizes Animals as People," it is mentioned that in the past, pets were considered as property similar to a rug or a toaster. Even before that, pets had very limited protections, as someone could steal or kill a pet without consequences (2 Monyak).

Animal activists are advocating for the rights of voiceless beings worldwide. DXE, a prominent

animal protest group, raised concerns about the safety of around 100,000 chickens residing at the Liberty Road Farm in Petaluma, California (1 Digitale Minichiello). This event took place in May 2018 and marked the group's fourth demonstration in support of animal rights. The activists accessed the Liberty Road Farm facilities and rescued ten chickens among the vast population.

They then crossed the road, singing freedom-themed songs and holding flowers. Many expressed their intention to return to the farm to check on the remaining chickens' health, even if it meant getting arrested. Cassie King, one of the organizers who was arrested for trespassing on Liberty Road Farm, stated, "When the law fails us, consumers and individuals have the right, and even the responsibility, to expose what goes on behind closed doors" (2 Digitale Minichiello). While the protestors aimed to provide assistance and care to the sick and injured chickens, they also aimed to document the farm's violations of California's animal cruelty laws.

Despite an activist's accusations of neglect and abuse towards his chickens, Weber, the owner of Liberty Road Farm, adamantly denies such claims (4 Digitale Minichiello). Other animal activist groups, like DXE, who are unwilling to engage in illegal activities, focus on protecting animals through alternative means. One such group is The Nonhuman Rights Project, a nonprofit organization that advocates for the transfer of animals from captivity to animal sanctuaries (4 Monyak). Despite facing numerous challenges and taking risks, many animal activists strongly believe that their efforts will have a significant impact on future years to come. Balancing the interests of farming corporations and animal activists, there are several possible solutions that can effectively eradicate animal cruelty.

Introducing

alternative housing options for animals could potentially address concerns from both farming corporations and animal activists. A study conducted by the HSUS found that birds in a cage-free, perch system moved about seven times more than birds kept in cages (3 HSUS). Furthermore, their research also revealed that removing calves from crates eliminated all symptoms of chronic stress experienced by them (9 HSUS). Additionally, implementing new laws to regulate the treatment of animals could also be a significant solution.

Although there are animal cruelty laws in all fifty states of the United States, it is clear that these laws are not effectively enforced or strong enough to discourage individuals from committing acts of animal abuse, such as severe confinement and more. Additionally, animal rights organizations can play a role in making vegan options more widely available in supermarkets and restaurants. This change would not only protect the welfare of animals but also ensure the well-being and health of humans. Overall, there are various solutions that could effectively eliminate animal cruelty while benefiting both farming and activist communities.

Although animals' needs are generally easier to satisfy than humans', it is not a justification for exploiting them. Eradicating animal cruelty will demand significant effort and commitment from both farming corporations and animal rights groups, but it is an achievable goal.