Treat me as you would like to be treated

This could be the silent wish of many animals. Pets or otherwise. A recent encounter with a rather large white furry rabbit in a pet-shop by a member of APAA made them wonder.

Jenny Clarke, president of the Association for Protection of Animals Algarve, has since raised concerns over whether pet shops, zoos and other animal or aquatic parks should be subject to stricter regulation and oversight.

“The rabbit was clearly very unhappy, gasping for air at the corner of the plastic cube in which it was being held.” Apparently, when a shop assistant was alerted, she shrugged and said: “The rabbit is trying to escape,” and walked away. Other customers also felt that the poor creature was trying to get some breathing space. Rabbits indeed dig holes to escape. Agreed.

The wider, larger areas where animals and aquatic creatures are held for humans to view are also questionable. “There’s a lot of money in displaying beautiful creatures, and they do attract a lot of visitors.”

Some children will first experience animals through TV, films, and cartoons before they get to see the real thing. Accustomed to seeing chicken only as a pre-wrapped product, a real chicken is therefore something only to be imagined.

“There should be tighter legislation for keeping animals.” And indeed there have been many thousands of people turning out in masses to ask for laws to be passed for the protection of animals, against cruelty, as well as the pets we keep, or abuse in some situations.

“There is photographic evidence of the horrendous treatment inflicted on animals, but they are not for the squeamish. It is really disappointing to see how the human race treats animals, not only in the wild but also in their own homes,” Jenny continues.

Getting the message out is, of course, important and it starts with schools. But children will and do find it difficult to separate the ‘fun’ frolicking of felines and canines on celluloid with the odd mouse or two from the real world.

Famously said, you can tell how mankind treats their own by the way they treat their animals. Indeed, money also speaks louder than words, while those calling for change are reduced to little more than a whisper when what is needed is a roar!

“There are many people who dislike circuses, zoos, safari parks and aquatic extravaganzas, yet they still exist. Some are a credit; providing environments that look and feel natural for the animals. But I often wonder whether, if the roles were reversed, there would be human zoos. I sincerely hope not!”

Jackie’s lunches & events: [email protected]

Pets: [email protected] (Mark Anita for ‘Legacy for Pets’)

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APAA

APAA - Association for the Protection of Animals in the Algarve. Helping animals in the Algarve by providing funding for spaying, neutering and emergency pet care.

APAA Portugal is not an animal rescue centre. www.apaaportugal.com