“Compassion for animals is intimately associated with goodness of character, and it may be confidently asserted that he who is cruel to animals cannot be a good man.” ~ Arthur Schopenhauer
The students of class VI-VIII from St. Mary’s Public School embarked on a fascinating field trip as a part of the school’s ongoing efforts to learn about animal welfare and conservation, to Akhila Karnataka Prani Daya Sangha, a cow rescue shelter in Bangalore. The purpose of the trip was to learn about animal welfare and conservation. The shelter houses over 1300 cows and other animals. During the trip, the students learned about the reasons why cows need to be rescued. They found out that the shelter provides a haven for cows who have been abandoned, and rescued from near-death situations, meat/leather factories, and abuse.
Students were given the opportunity to interact with the cows, feed them, pet them, and even groom them. This hands-on experience helped the students develop empathy and respect for these gentle creatures. Apart from cows, the students also had the opportunity to connect with other domesticated animals such as goats, sheep, and snakes. They witnessed the joy of life as they held a newborn lamb in their arms and learned about the importance of wildlife conservation and responsible handling of such creatures. The field trip promoted empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards animal welfare.
A newfound appreciation was gained for the significance of cow rescue shelters in protecting and caring for vulnerable animals. They were inspired to consider the broader implications of their choices regarding food, fashion, and environmental sustainability. In conclusion, the field trip was a unique learning opportunity that shed light on the ethical treatment of animals and the responsibilities of humans towards them. The students left the shelter with a sense of respect and admiration for the animals and the work being done at the shelter.
