I think the pet/food dichotomy is one of the most arbitrary systems around. Personally, I'd say that what makes an animal a pet (or not) is what their owner thinks of them, not what species they are. Pets are another arbitrary classification, but I digress. (I don't see it as a harmful one. Not all illogical standards have to be evil. I butcher extras regularly for food, and I have had other birdsājust a fewāthat I'd have moved Heaven and Earth to save. Why? I liked them. No other reason. I am under no delusions that their lives were somehow 'worth' more.)
I see no reason why my pet ducks/chickens should be valued as less than a dog just because they don't bark and tear up my furniture. I also don't see why we shouldn't eat unwanted dogs/cats/horses. It makes more sense than letting them strain overcrowded shelters or starve on the streets. I think it's a bigger shame to euthanize them and leave their bodies to rot in the name of 'respect' for their bodies. Just give them a quick bullet and then toss them on the grill. They won't care, they're dead.
Some people say "Well, then how do you draw a line between animals and humans? Why don't we eat our own dead?" First, that's a stupid idea from the viewpoint of transmitted diseases. Second, at some point, everybody has to decide for themselves how lives are valued. I've made my decisions; others have made theirs. No matter if animals are 'friends' or 'food', they should still be treated kindly at all times. There is NEVER a reason to be a jerk to the lives in your charge.
). Anyone else agree male first then female?
