When you go into the average American household, you are most likely to see some sort of pet. Most people believe that owning a pet is “normal”. Some even say that their pet is treated better than they are. There is a big debate on whether owning a pet/animal is ethically wrong. PETA has been a huge side in this debate.
Some associations, like PETA, believe that is ethically wrong to own a pet. They claim that animals shouldn’t be used for “human entertainment”. They believe that owning animals manipulates their bodies, behaviors, and emotional responses. According to them, they should be given the right to live in their natural habits and use their natural behavior. PETA is actively trying to stop the use of animals for human consumption and entertainment.
Other associations and people, state that owning pets/animals is perfectly ethical. They say that it allows them to have a loving, safe home and provides them with a happy life. It provides protection for domestic animals that wouldn’t be able to survive in their natural environment. Most domestic animals, like dogs, actively choose to be around humans. The bonds these animals create with humans are a good thing. Pets enjoy the attention, and like a safe and loving environment.
I personally believe that owning animals and pets is completely ethical if cared for correctly. These domestic animals are already domesticated. There is no way we could put them back into the wild and expect them to survive. These animals have learned to rely on us, just as much as we rely on them. Not only do we provide a lot for these domesticated pets but they provide a lot for us too. Overall, I don’t agree with PETA or any of the associations similar to it.
Do you believe that owning animals/pets is ethical? Why?
What are your opinions on PETA’s side of this debate?
Do you own any animals/pets? And what do they do for you?
Sources:
- https://theconversation.com/pets-is-it-ethical-to-keep-them-115647#:~:text=The%20institution%20of%20pet%2Dkeeping,suit%20human%20fashions%20and%20fancies.
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animals-in-entertainment/
- https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/jul/16/do-our-pets-ever-really-love-us-or-do-they-just-stick-around-for-the-food
Replies
Yes, I think having a pet is ethical. Becuase, your giving an animal free food and a warm shelter to live in. Also many pet are used for different things. Such as a gaurd dog, therapy dog, and police dog. I own a dog that I bought over the summer without my parents knowing and its crazy how animals can change what people think and peoples moods. Becuase I thought my parents were going to freak but they love him.
I have 2 dogs, a hamster, and a fish. They help me very much emotioanlly. I think owning animals is ethical. Many people need animals for several reasons. Somtimes physically, emotioanlly etc.
I think that all people should have some sort of companion. There are many reasons why people having pets. Maybe to help them mentally, or because they're bored, but no matter the reason, companions are always wanted. I have shih tzu poodle named Wesley and he is turning 6 in April.
I agree that people need companions. These animals and pets help us, just as much as we help them.
I think that it's good that people own pets. This keeps the animals out of shelters and off the streets. Some of you might think that we should keep the animals in the shelters where they're fed and housed; however, not all shelters are kind and loving. Adopting a pet is an awesome thing that you could do for an animal so long as you have the means to take care of them and love them.
I think that owning pets is ethical as long as their owner is treating them good. I think that most owners even make life better for their pets. I also think if we tried to put them back into the wild now, they wouldn't survive.
I agree. If the animals and pet are properly cared for then it's ethical.
I think that owning pets is good. There is no issue with it. Pets like dogs and cats can help people with all different kinds of things. Some people rely on their pets to make them happy and keep them alive. I don't think PETA even has an argument. There is no reason why people can't own pets.
I think that owning a pet is not bad, sure some people would say it is, but many animals have already been domesticated, so putting them back into the wild would cause more harm than keeping pets. instead of getting rid of all pets, they should look at getting rid of pets whose owners abuse them.
I think its fine to own animals. PETA shouldn't be trying to get rid pets for everybody, they should focus on the households that treat animals terribly. Studies have shown that owning pets mentally benifit people and the pets themselves. In their natural environment, it could be hard to get food, but in a household, they get what they need every day.
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