MATURE ANIMALS are NOT disposable!! ...whether they are a family pet, a farm companion or wildlife *supposed to be* in the trusted care of a rescue, sanctuary, reserve or so-called conservation zoo. They deserve every reasonable effort for a dignified, comfortable, loving and happy retirement. They do need special care and sharing your life with an animal is a lifetime commitment. If I hear one more person say oh, he is just OLD ...and dismiss an animals needs...I think I will scream. Guess what, one day...we will ALL GET OLD...how will you like that attitude then?? It is miraculous for a farm animal to reach his or her senior years. Often this only seems to occur on small hobby farms, rescues or animal sanctuaries where they are not exploited and killed in youth for profit. Tragically, even in these situations --the callous attitude of its just an animal can too often prevail. Typically -Kids Farms, Petting Zoos want cute, active, baby and youthful animals to entertain their public. When the needs of mid-life or senior animals set in - no one wants to do the dirty jobs, spend extra money on the veterinarian or supplements -- nor offer the extra compassionate attention they need. Senior animals can end up being neglected and left to die - suffering, in pain and lonely (or euthanized too soon) because laziness, ignorance, lack of money and volunteers. These beautiful, gentle beings deserve our respect and care. When agreeing to be responsible for an animal - we need to be willing to attend to all their needs throughout all stages of life (not just when it seems fun). Today I learned about the loss of a goat friend Leila that I have known and loved this last year at a Kids Farm. She was 11 years old and with good nutrition, good routine medical care and some attention to her comfort - she could have had a few more good years. For over a month now, I have noticed the decline of her health - loss of weight, very poor fur coat, on-going diarrhea, slower movements and depressed attitude. I have repeatedly advocated for care and treatment and always offered what I could and what I was allowed to do when visiting. I did research and made suggestions. They hit a brick wall of apathy and indifference. The excuses about not enough help, lack of money and an attitude of complete disregard because OH, she is just OLD...I firmly believe has led to her untimely death. I have held her and nursed her when she was in crisis. Even the veterinarian wrote her off as old. He did not even do a proper, professional physical exam. She was NOT being treated for the standard concerns goats commonly face. Another week later, she is dead. I am heartbroken because I know it was unnecessary...and she died alone and got bagged up for rendering. Beloved Leila was a beautiful individual - sweet, gentle and dignified. She enjoyed wonderful relationships with her herd and people. I will miss her lovely essence and hope we can all learn from her suffering and neglect. Animals are NOT disposable things. ~ ALL BEINGS cherish safety, comfort, freedom, family and LIFE. We can enjoy healthy, satisfying and prosperous lives -- without harming others. ~ Karrel Christopher
Posted on: Thu, 27 Mar 2014 19:55:27 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015