EDIT: 25th Aug Replaced most instances of 'animal' with 'creature' to clarify that it refers to any non vegetable life form, not just big and small furry ones.
Cruelty may be described as doing something to deprive another of comfort or enjoyment of their usual and healthy environment. This will include stealing as well as intimidation to extort gain. In the UK legal system this doesn't apply to creatures other than human. This is therefore applied by individuals in their dealings with 'other than human' creatures to suit their own conscience.
The trust was set up by people choosing to avoid using creatures and their by-products and this post is an attempt to clarify the use of trust property with regard to creatures.
Wild creatures are free to roam on the majority of the land of at least two thirds, as it fits the forest agriculture planning. No creatures is otherwise managed, although they are kept from vegetable areas.
Dealing with creatures that become a nuisance to crops is solely the responsibility of the grower, but the grower will not use chemical sprays or other creatures as bait or a deterrent.
This subject needs expanding:
My argument is simple, like taking candy from a baby, it is cruel to take from creatures that cannot defend themselves nor have the understanding to enter into a contract.
Young humans are deemed unavailable for sexual exploitation despite any apparent consent notwithstanding any agreement or expectation of emotional or physical gain. Such are protected to varying degrees. How goes the dumb creature?
I notice the self indulgent nature of this position, this is a matter of will, a meditation maybe and is part of my response to the general environmental damage I cause. I am not concerned specifically about the creatures, but rather I do not want to be cruel. Creature use is an obvious use I can do without.
I am exploring how I can live without using creatures. I do not campaign for animal welfare nor do I consider it cruel for someone to defend themselves or their property which entails animal curtailment that may be disturbing, painful or lethal for the creature.
With specific regard to pets I consider the collection of creatures for such purpose to be cruel albeit that the animal may appear content. Many creatures are bred or groomed to be submissive. Humans are also groomed or so enslaved that they appear content. Being content is not an indication of lack of exploitation.
A piece on Fair Trade would be relevant here.
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