That you may be better informed

Several articles have surfaced recently on the first few pages of local newspapers, including those in Topeka, Wichita, and Emporia, where several food producing companies have, once again, come under the scrutiny of animal rights organizations. In addition, I was in conversation with a local reporter who made mention of similar situation, and in so doing, made mention of several such organizations as if they had a similar or worthwhile cause. Having dealt professionally with each of these organizations for several years, I definitely have an opinion of their ‘value’, and in the event there is interest in more details, I refer you to the comments section at the very end of this blog.

Being the opinionated individual that I am, it seems the appropriate time to point out some of the differences, intents, goals, objections, and values of the various organizations and let the reader apply some common sense in how each might affect their personal interests. Make NO MISTAKE, most are extremist organizations. Please carefully read with scrutiny and caution.

Hoping to remain an informant, I will list each alphabetically along with some information taken from their website.


People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has been described as “by far the most successful radical organization in America.” The key word is radical. PETA seeks “total animal liberation,” according to its president and co-founder, Ingrid Newkirk. That means no meat or dairy, of course; but it also means no aquariums, no circuses, no hunting or fishing, no fur or leather, and no medical research using animals. PETA is even opposed to the use of seeing-eye dogs.

Humane Society (of Kansas)

Our mission is to accept all animals that come to us and give them another chance for a good home. Whether sick or well, friendly or aggressive, no animal is turned away. This means we receive over 13,000 animals coming in each year by citizens unable or unwilling to care for them. Of these, most are dogs and cats, though we do accept other small pets such as guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, and birds. We were established to serve all companion animals and, at the Kansas Humane Society, these animals find concerned and kind staff and volunteers who give each animal the best care possible.
The reward of operating the shelter is the joy of uniting responsible owners with loving and grateful pets. The Society currently finds homes for 70% of the animals made available for adoption. Our staff and volunteers screen potential adopters, and match them with shelter animals. Other important services of the Kansas Humane Society include public education programs, pet visits to nursing homes, and lost and found pet tracking. These services are carried out by a small staff and about 250 active volunteers.

Note: This organization is a part of a greater (Humane Society International) declaring the same mission. This is strictly a service organization and does not have a radical mission with intent to interfere with the livelihood of other people. Do not be confused with the similarity of the name.

Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)
The human-animal bond is as old as human history. We cherish our animal companions for their unconditional affection and acceptance. We feel a thrill when we glimpse wild creatures in their natural habitat or in our own backyard.

Unfortunately, the human-animal bond has at times been weakened. Humans have exploited some animal species to the point of extinction. Research animals suffer pain and distress in laboratory tests considered necessary for human health or well-being. Animals killed for fur fashions endure unimaginable agony in inhumane traps or on fur "ranches." Animals used by the food industry live on factory farms where they are treated as unfeeling commodities rather than as sentient beings. The use of animal parts for traditional medicines has contributed to the disappearance of some species worldwide.

The Humane Society of the United States makes a difference in the lives of animals here at home and worldwide. The HSUS is dedicated to creating a world where our relationship with animals is guided by compassion. We seek a truly humane society in which animals are respected for their intrinsic value, and where the human-animal bond is strong.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
Peta has been described as “by far the most successful radical organization in America.” The key word is radical. PETA seeks “total animal liberation,” according to its president and co-founder, Ingrid Newkirk. That means no meat or dairy, of course; but it also means no aquariums, no circuses, no hunting or fishing, no fur or leather, and no medical research using animals. PETA is even opposed to the use of seeing-eye dogs.

Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)

SPCA.com is dedicated to helping people with pets and has the mandate of broadcasting the vision of the SPCA on the Web. Each individual SPCA has outlined its mission for its local market and we invite you to visit your local SPCA or its Web site to learn more.