I agree that we should be feeding them and that the situation for those twelve dogs is sad, but at the same time, I didn't feel that it was an intentional, evil act on the part of our government. To me, it would fall into the did we have a clue about ANYTHING category. Given the chaos that is Baghdad, it doesn't surprise me that there are problems with these things at all. In fact, there have been times when our men there didn't get the proper meals either. I would rather they get priority over dogs, quite honestly.
As for training dogs, I don't have the same reaction you do. I see no reason not to train and use dogs for useful purposes and for our benefit. I would never approve of abuse or neglect, but the police dogs I knew when I was a probation officer were absolutely beloved by their owners. I think to say we are putting them there without their being consulted is sort of silly, since they receive much love and care in return, and really aren't injured that often, though I know what you are saying. I could as easily argue that, given my own experience owning dogs and the wonderful stories we hear, they would willingly put their lives on the line for us if they COULD be consulted.
I imagine there are many starving animals in Iraq.
Last night I had to put my hands over my ears and quickly turn off the tv when a story about the abandoned tsunami animals came on. A little kitten was stumbling along and I just lost it even seeing only three seconds. There is so much pain in the world, so much suffering.
The dog story is sad, but also not unique. I thought it was important to not confuse the situation with the idea that the US was some Evil Satanic figure doing this intentionally. We aren't. And as usual, as soon as a need is made known, the American people rush to fill it.
I have a much higher standard for true evil. A lot of what people call evil, I find just plain ignorance and stupidity. (although I suppose both can achieve levels that seem evil).
I do understand that you see everything about Bush and Iraq as probably meeting any standard, though. :) |
