Fear Factory: Factory Farming--Show Some Respect

Factoring farming is a huge topic in the field of animal rights.  Controversy from this topic stems from poor treatment of animals including unsanitary living conditions, physical abuse, production of "downed" or ill cows, medical negligence and living quarters that are too small for an animal to move in, just to name a few.

Not all animal lovers are going to judge someone who takes a bite of steak, but from our standpoint, animals deserve respect throughout their life up until death, or slaughter.  

On their website, ASPCA, or The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, encourages humane farm animal treatment that is reasonable.  Without harsh criticism towards meat eaters, the animal organization supports the Certified Humane Certificate Program.  With productive labeling and inspections, this program ensures animals are treated humanely throughout production.  This is a positive step towards humane respect for our farm animal friends.

It is important for all individuals who partake in eating food, to consider what we are contributing to in relation to consumption of farm animals or dairy products.  Treehugger has a great article in reference to how farm animals should be perceived.  Writer Sami Grover states, "We have become so desensitized to animal cruelty and industrial processing of farm animals, that most of us—myself included—need reminding that farm animals are sentient beings little different from our beloved pets at home."  Definitely, well said.  Research shows that animals like cows have the ability to make friendships among other cows and feel emotions like sadness.

It is important to shed light on the fact that animals are not just food or another commodity.  They are living, breathing beings that feel.  If an individual feels the necessity or desire to indulge in meat or dairy products, that is their choice.  It should just be shared what animals are still enduring despite continuing efforts and informational pieces provided by animal lovers.  It's all about respect.    

References:
1) "Animal Abuse in Factory Farms is the Norm, Not the Exception", by Sami Grover with Treehugger.com
2) What Is the Certified Humane Certificate Program? Page by ASPCA.org