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Animal welfare is a topic that has garnered much attention lately. And, due to the varying opinions on the issue, it will continue to be a relevant debate. On one hand, we have the pets that live in our homes and are treated as part of the family. And, on the other hand, there are animals, wild or farmed, that are only considered food. Does that mean we all have to become vegetarians if we advocate animal rights? Or is it okay to expect just treatment for one type of animal and not another?

It would stand to reason that if we fought for the rights of our companion pets, we would also have the same passion for protecting the rights of all animals. But, then we do have to eat. And, as the most evolved species on the planet, we are the top of the food chain. Maybe ethical treatment doesn't mean that we don't kill animals, but that we perform the act in a way that produces the least amount of suffering.

In the earliest days of man, wild game was hunted for survival. There was a purpose and use for the entire animal. Today, I think most hunters still hold the same reverence for wild life as our ancient ancestors. They also adhere to the regulations that prevent them from decimating any species into extinction. But, there are a few who don't follow the rules. And, although national and international actions have been taken to prohibit poaching or illegal hunting of animals, it does still take place. The individuals who have no regard for the welfare of animals also have no regard for the law.

There is also the hotly debated topic of scientific research. Animals have been used to test experimental vaccines because we could not expose humans to the effects of unknown drugs. Of course, we have to have laboratories to experiment with new treatment methods. But, with modern technology, most animal research has been eliminated. Because the results of such testing was often times not applicable to humans, alternate methods, like computer simulation and tissue sampling, are being used. Medical advances can be made and more useful data obtained without the use of animals.

Many protection agencies are bringing animal rights to the public's attention and motivating us to improve our policies concerning animal welfare. We now have regulations to enforce the ethical treatment of animals, and hopefully, one day we won't need laws to make society ethically aware. Ultimately, it is our responsibility as individuals to ensure that we treat all living beings on this planet with respect.

Learn more about this author, Leslie Conner.
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