When we talk about the weak, most of you may think about the homeless people who are wandering on streets, or the elderly people who do not get enough food, care and love. We believe that the weak also includes animals. Instead of just considering human rights, why don’t we do more by showing our empathy towards the vulnerable animals that are treated inhumanely?
To most of us, we keep dogs and cats as pets and love them as if they are our babies. Unfortunately, some of them are not treated well or even being abused by their owners. According to the SPCA Inspectorate, 29422 calls about animal cruelty were received from the public, and 841 cases of animal cruelty were reported and inspected. These numbers show that the frequency of animal abuse remains persistently high in Hong Kong.
However, this issue still lacks public awareness. In order to get the public’s attention, pet lovers have stood out from the community, reminding people to stand up for the rights of animals. In 2019, three members of the Legislative Council and a group of protesters declared to strive for a more serious penalty for animal abuse and to assure animal rights. This action is spotlighted, and as a result, it has raised more people’s awareness on the issue of animal abuse.
Therefore, when we talk about caring for the weak, we should consider the needs of both humans and animals. Every life deserves equal respect. As pet owners, we should bear full responsibility for raising a pet. If we aren’t pet owners, we can participate in volunteer work to show love and care towards abused or abandoned animals.
May is the Month of Mary, may we pray that Mother Mary will give us the strength and ability to care for the weak.
Tuesday, 6 May 2025