New Zealand treats animals inhumanely – but it could become a world leader in their welfare | Philip McKibbin

Our country has already set examples on issues like women's suffrage and anti-nuclear policy. It can do the same again

Aotearoa New Zealand is a pretty good place to live - if you're human, that is. If you happen to be a non-human animal, chances are you're not doing very well.

Inhumane treatment of animals is widespread. It is routinely used in farming (the dairy industry is among the worst perpetrators, as forced pregnancies, separation of calves from their mothers, and slaughter are routine practices); conservation (poison and traps are commonly used to control pests"); scientific research (430,000 animals were used or bred for experiments last year); and entertainment (such as horse racing and rodeo).