I just witnessed my mother scream at, strike and choke a Doberman puppy, for hours*. The dog is her pet of a few months. I am not overwhelmingly moved by animal cruelty, perhaps not any more than your average person. I am a pragmatist and have always accepted that some animals live and die by the wills of humans and those higher on the food chain. But I strongly believe in being humane, and causing as little suffering to animals (people included) as we can during the time we are alive. We should try to create a planet where as many beings as possible can flourish for as long as possible. Tread lightly. Propagate happiness.