Anthropomorphic characteristics continue to define how humans see animals. With this comes more activism targeted at current stewardship methods, regardless of how much improvement has been made in pain management, care, housing, handling and euthanasia methods.
Animal health professionals need to be prepared for animal activist encounters. If you encounter an activist on your farm, place of business or at an event, the best thing to do is keep your cool and avoid confrontation, writes Jennifer Shrike. She shares guidance and tips applicable to more situations beyond pork production facilities.
Do not interact with <activists> beyond notifying them if they are trespassing. There is nothing to gain by talking with them or attempting to answer questions. They are not coming from a place of good faith and are not actually interested in information and most likely livestreaming or recording. They want to see you get frustrated. Stay calm and notify law enforcement.” – Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Animal Agriculture Alliance.
Source: PORK, January 21, 2022. Link.
Also see: Position statements on animal welfare, AAHA. Link. The concept of animal welfare is founded on the premise that humans have an ethical and moral obligation to act humanely toward animals in a manner that builds the bond between them. Therefore, animal welfare is a human responsibility requiring active attention to all aspects of animal health and wellbeing, including responsible husbandry, transport, and care, as well as humane housing, handling and, when necessary, euthanasia.