IS it hard

Well all hesitate. No normal person enjoys ending a life. And we do our best not to become attached. You have to set your mind that this is a commodity, grown for meat and go from there. They are live creatures and deserve the best care we can give them and so they do get cared for well. But when it's time, it's time.

At least someone who eats meat and slaughters their own isn't insulated by the packages in the store. If you eat meat and refuse to kill something for meat, then I just don't know what to say.

Well, this sounds harsh, but I don't mean it to be. In that case, don't end a life and don't worry about others doing so? The most miserable people I know are miserable over what others do. And you just can't control them.

I know these birds were well cared for, lovingly raised, enjoyed their surroundings (ever hear a chicken 'purr'?  I do!),  thoughtfully dispatched as quickly and effortlessly as possible.  I know these birds got sunshine, grass, treats, treats and more treats, bugs, fresh air and space to roam.  What could be better in life? 

For me, while I don't eat much meat (as I feel is natural for an omnivorously evolved species rather than eating three burgers a day), I want to be able to provide my family and my pets with real meat.  I hate what I am reduced to feeding my dogs, rat, and cats right now.  Seriously...bleh!!  I'd honestly happily go vegetarian if not for them.  I can not always afford, and personally can't justify the price tag on high end foods, and factory farmed meat can be affordable, but not something I want to buy.  I'm very eager to move out onto some land and start with meat birds.  Will I cry the first few times?  Oh yes.  but, I'll also personally be happy that I am providing my birds with a good life (and death), providing my pets, family, and community with better health, and taking part in cycles so deeply ingrained in nature that it brings me much closer to it.  And I personally love nature, in all it's brutal and beautiful, gentle and violent ways.

 

There is something to be said for the self-sufficient aspect too.  That gives one a real feeling of peace and accomplishment, or at least, I never am as satisfied as I am when I am doing something with true, raw meaning.

Edited by punk-a-doodle - 6/26/12 at 12:02pm

Life is Good said it better than I could have!  I'm taking 11 to the slaughterhouse tomorrow because I know I can't do it myself but I know it will be over fast for them and I feel good knowing they had really good lives. 

Things are born and they die, plant and animal alike. When we take care of animals like this, we can insure that they live a good and happy life..and when its that time, that they die in a quick and painless manner. Is it hard? Sure...you're taking the life of another creature. You're the last thing that bird will ever see and you know it. Then again...it can be hard to thin seedlings...killing the weak so the strong survive to mature. Life is life...all we can do is use our best judgement and keep the end quick and as dignified as possible.

i raise mine for the eggs and that is all i raise mine for