05/06/2026
Everyone may not get where I'm coming from or might even feel that my views are "disconnected" or even "heartless" but that is far from the case. I feel that this topic is worth having the discussion about.
When it comes to taking care of livestock there is a line drawn between human emotions and the welfare of that animal. Animals do not process things the same way humans do. Animals do not fill out a planner and schedule meetings or even think about what they may do the following day. They do not sit around thinking about what they may be missing out on or who they should be spending time with. Their three-foot bubble is much less complex than ours and encompasses very basic needs. An animal's world revolves around the simplicity of comfort, safety, and routine.
When you are able to provide the simplest needs for an animal that most of us humans take for granted on a daily basis, a safe dry environment to be comfortable in, a space where an animal has freedom to do animal things, shelter from the elements, and consistent access to food and water, you've just fulfilled every basic need for that animal.
Now here comes the part that people may disagree with and that's okay. We as humans tend to place our emotions onto the animals we care for. A lot of times that can actually degrade the care they are receiving. Instead of focusing on the real signs or signals that an animal is displaying related to their health, behavior and appetite. We start making decisions based on over complicated human emotions and assumptions rather than just checking off the list of basic needs. In my experience a sick animal will let you know it's sick and how sick it is simply by figuring out what part of their routine has changed. It's kind of like taking care of a baby. That baby relies on you for simple and basic needs when those needs are fulfilled that baby will thrive and when a baby is sick or wanting there will be a visual or audible level of communication to indicate an issue.
Good stewardship in livestock care isn't about changing animals into humans. It's about figuring out what truly matters to that animal and providing for that need effectively every single day. Because a happy animal is a thriving animal. And our reward doesn't come in the form of dollar signs but rather the feeling of pride and accomplishment accompanied by a dash of self worth knowing you provided the best care for a life you chose to be responsible for.
