The heat is relentless, every
creature is seeking respite; temperatures climb from 39 degrees. Our herd has
been standing in the lake, sometimes up to their necks cooling off. Flicking
water at themselves and each other. They have a big, clean field shelter in the
shade, full of fresh straw. But the watering hole is where they choose to be.
Happy chilling out, chewing the cud, not under any stress or obligation. They
have had a large breakfast and in the ratelier lies a big round bale of just
cropped meadow grass. Yet I know my herd are uncomfortable in the heat, but
they have everything we can offer.
In comparison, those that are in
the fields close by are lucky if they have trees. It is customary for all trees
on the borders of fields to be removed. This eases the path for the tractor,
making life more tolerable for the exploiter. Those girls kept in barns for
their milk will be so uncomfortable. Genetically modified udders straining
under the weight, heavy and pendulous. Skin stretched to breaking, veins
throbbing, such pain. Unable to feel the comfort of their babies suckling.
Their calves kept in little plastic hitches, the boiling sun causing a fetid
stink of heated plastic and excrement. Little ones with no comfort and unable
to escape. Just given milk formula to grow, as quickly as possible to keep
their flesh soft and easy to chew. The countless millions in transporter
lorries and ships. Squished together, unable to breath in the stifling heat.
The urea stinging their eyes as it heats in the intolerable conditions. Scared
and afraid, suffocating and boiling. The forgotten ones packed and processed.
While we as humans celebrate the heat with bbq meals made from their bodies and
ice creams stolen from their children.
Maybe my cows may feel
uncomfortable in the heat, but they look to me with trust in their eyes. Choose
a kinder diet please, with the least harm caused to other earthlings. They
suffer just as we do.
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