We stand together, even though we may stand apart
Let’s not lose sight of the common bonds that link us.
AS WE GO TO PRESS IN LATE MARCH, one thing is certain: We are experiencing a shift in our everyday norms unlike anything that has happened before. I suspect that when you read this, the same will hold true. But it’s during times of upheaval that we must get our bearings and stay aligned with our values.
At Best Friends, we know — now and always — that when it comes to the animals, we are committed to bringing about a time when there are no more homeless pets. Our collective dedication to saving lives is a beacon not only when it comes to the work we do at the Sanctuary, but also in the way we conduct our daily lives. We’ve built, and enjoy, a rich community of like-minded individuals who share our vision of kindness, and when times are shaky — as they are now — it’s this outstanding group of people that I call to mind.
There are so many unknowns at this time and that only serves to heighten anxiety. The more we learn from this terrible pandemic, the better we will be able to avoid such disasters in the future. One thing that we do know is the answer to this critical question: How did the spread of COVID-19 begin in the first place?
In simple terms, the coronavirus was transmitted to humans from animals. Tragically, these were animals who were being held in cruel conditions in China’s notorious wildlife markets. There have been similar outbreaks in the past, on account of people intruding on the habitats of wild animals around the world and taking exotic animals for food and folk remedies. HIV, Ebola and SARS (just to name a few) all jumped to humans by this route. While it should go without saying, the more we, as a species, wreak havoc on the natural habitats of these non-domesticated creatures, the more exposed we are to viruses to which we have no natural immunity. While a vaccine to protect against COVID-19 will most likely be developed one day, medical professionals are well aware that we do ourselves no favors by continuing to invade the habitats of our fellow animals.
We as a species must learn to live in peace with the natural world. The consequences of failing to do so are grave, as illustrated by the current pandemic that has paralyzed the world. The vision statement of Best Friends Animal Society is “a better world through kindness to animals.” Our first step in making peace with the world of the animals is doing what is right on behalf of the animals who are closest to us — dogs and cats — and ending the pointless killing of animal companions in our nation’s shelters.
At the Sanctuary, it’s not only dogs and cats who find refuge. It’s goats and horses, owls and eagles, pigs and peacocks, parrots and pigeons, rabbits and reptiles, skunks and squirrels, turtles and turkeys, and many more species. A shared love for all living creatures is a great unifying value during trying times. If you’ve felt isolated during the pandemic, please remember that you are part of the Best Friends family.
As we continue our journey through these uncharted waters — despite all that can shake us from our moorings and push us into isolation — let’s not lose sight of the common bonds that link us together across all economic, racial and political boundaries. Kindness to animals makes a better world for all of us. Throughout the weeks and months ahead, we will continue our lifesaving mission and emerge from this pandemic united in purpose to Save Them All.
Yours in faithfulness to the animals,