Editor:
I recently read the article about the Wayne County hog farmer accused of animal abuse (Hog farm investigated for abuse, Dec. 21, 2006). I really wish that I wouldn’t have even turned to that page after reading it.
No, I am not a pork producer. I did, however, grow up on a farm and still have a great respect for the rural way of life and agriculture. It sickens me each time I drive past a cornfield that’s being turned into a development.
Mr. Wiles states a former employee is against animal agriculture. This may or may not be true.
I feel that most of “us” are OK with animal agriculture. Farmers just shouldn’t confuse concerned people with radicals.
A big issue with many, as it should be, is with the animal’s welfare until it is used for food. Animals should not be subjected to suffering, horrid living conditions, injuries from human neglect and, above all, no live animal should be pushed into a burial pit.
No way is this agriculture — it’s horrible.
Nothing is more beautiful than a working farm, nothing more tranquil than a farm that’s run humanely. If we just ask ourselves before each day ends, “are our animals housed properly?” I think we will all live better.
Laurel Novotny
Newton Falls, Ohio
