Thursday, June 6, 2013

Can A Vegan Own Pets?

We all know what a vegetarian or a vegan is...save for some heated debate over the sometimes trivial matters where we lose sight of the big picture that unites us and look at all the things that divide us. 

Many vegans do not eat animal products for a variety of reasons.  These reasons can include things like taste or health benefits.  Others will profess a love for animals and simply do not want to take part in any shape or fashion the consumption of food created/produced by animals.

But, can a vegan own an animal?  Most will say that there is nothing wrong with owning a cat or a dog.  Heck, many will have a designer dog like a pomsky riding shotgun in their expensive import.  Life is good. 

What about more exotic pets and animals?  Is it even remotely acceptable for me to entertain the notion of owning a pet monkey?  You can find ads listing monkeys for sale on the internet just like you were looking for a home. I have always wanted a capuchin monkey for sale.

We all have a tremendous amount of love and appreciation for animals and sometimes I feel like we as humans can actually advance the cause of our furry friends if we have a more hands on approach.  Admiring from afar or through the pages of a wildlife magazine disconnects me, I feel. 

I am not convinced that ownership of animals is a mortal sin...but I know that many vegans will find this blasphemous.  Thoughts?

No comments:

Post a Comment