Why We Care
We know that we are not alone in our vision of a truly humane society. Through open dialogue on current issues, concerns and attitudes, together we can spread the simple, but powerful message to "be humane". We invite you to become an active participant of humane.org. Read what others are saying, share your comments, send us articles and suggestions. Have Your Say.
What does humane mean to you?
Here are some quotes from people on what HUMANE means to them. If you would like your quote included, please email us.
"To me, humane means to treat all beings on Earth with equal respect." Stephanie Roberts
"Humane to me means taking care of the vulnerable ones." Deirdre' Deputy
"I think humane means being caring and loving." Suncoast Humane Society Critter Camper 2009
"Respect, tolerance and compassion for all things living." Claire Berten.
"Being humane means to be kind to people and animals." Suncoast Humane Society Critter Camper 2009
"Humane to me is being considerate and loving." Suncoast Humane Society Critter Camper 2009
"To be humane is to love and care for animals." Suncoast Humane Society Critter Camper 2009
"To me, humane means that you should help those in need and have empathy for those less fortunate." Bill Peplow, Sr. V.P. Business Development, John Paul Mitchell Systems
"I have used the word humane daily, sometimes several times in a day, for over 35 years, without stopping to examine it. I have heard it used passionately, kindly, and even strangely. I’ve known some people that sign their letters, “humanely yours” I’m left wondering, what does that mean?
"Humane - Treat all living souls the way you want to be treated." John Paul DeJoria, Co-founder, Chairman & CEO, John Paul Mitchell Systems.
"Peace, love and freedom." James H. Main
It is generally understood that humane means kind, gentle, loving, compassion and other such terms. One dictionary describes it as meaning tender. I know that vegetarians and non vegetarians refer to it. Hunters and trappers consider themselves humane. I have even heard dog fighters, hoarders, and other types of animal abusers call themselves animal lovers, thinking of themselves as humane. If people who kill and/or harm animals use the term; it must mean different things to different people.
I like to use the word respect. I feel that if we respect each other, and treat all forms of life with respect, you can’t help but be humane, regardless of what it really means. Now, what does humane mean? I don’t think it was intended to be used only to define the treatment of animals."
Phil Snyder
Topic of the month
To kill or not to kill, is that the question? Not really according to Jim Tedford, CAWA, President of Alpha Dog Strategies. The rest of the story ...
Working in an animal shelter can be hazardous to your health! Our staff and volunteers face risks from dog bites and cat scratches on a routine basis. The physical scars, however, eventually heal. The emotional toll can be a bit longer lasting. The rest of the story...
Have your say
Click here to go to our humane.org forum. Create an account and join other like-minded people discussing various humane issues. We will also be scheduling live chats from time to time.
Send us your comments.
what some people are saying...
I have always seen the word "Humane" as more of a verb than an adjective. I think of it as an "action word", because without action any ideal is pretty hollow and meaningless. It's easy to talk about being humane, but it requires the strength of one's own convictions to actually LIVE a humane lifestyle and to speak out against cruelty in all its manifestations.
Jim Tedford, CAWA
President Alpha Dog Strategies
