Change pet’s status

I am so sorry for Tracie Samara in the death of hr dog (Justice for my dog’s death, Nov. 22, Readers’ Forum). I feel for her loss.

All of us who have pets and consider them part of our families feel Samara’s pain.

I agree that the legal status of animals must be changed from that of property to something like non-human living beings.

Animals have brains and hearts. They suffer from diseases just like humans. Animals are much closer to being humans than any corporation could ever be, yet corporations are now legally considered people.

The agriculture lobby wants animals classified as property to protect the status quo, preventing any hint of animals’ humanity, possibly inconveniencing their business practices and profits.

Animal advocates should demand a legal-status change from elected officials because animals should also have rights.

This story was originally published November 27, 2014 at 2:00 PM with the headline "Change pet’s status."