WINDOM, Minn. -- I have been following the back and forth debate between the Humane Society of the United States and pork producers with a certain detached interest.
I have known a few producers through the years and none were sadistic.
Years ago, I worked on a hog farm. I didn't like to see sows in crates, but they did not stay there long and did not seem over-stressed by it. It saved a lot of baby pigs.
I now work part-time on a turkey farm. They get a little crowded toward shipping time, but again, seem more or less contented.
The Humane Society tends to anthropomorphize animals. I've never met a turkey that was interested in knowing me.
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Companion animals, on the other hand, tend to have more personality. They are still not on the same level as humans.
I personally do not eat pork, but do not look down on those who do. As a driver, I know without careful attention it's easy to go into the ditch. I believe the Humane Society has good intentions and does much good work, but have gone into ditch on this issue.
Editor's Note: This letter originally appeared in the Worthington (Minn.) Daily Globe.
