Animals are sentient, intelligent, perceptive, funny and entertaining. We owe them a duty of care as we do to children.

The quote, "Animals are sentient, intelligent, perceptive, funny and entertaining. We owe them a duty of care as we do to children," by Michael Morpurgo, underscores the profound empathy and responsibility humans should have towards animals. Morpurgo, a renowned author known for works like War Horse, highlights the intelligence and emotional capacity of animals, suggesting that they deserve to be treated with the same respect and compassion as humans, particularly children. The quote emphasizes that animals are not mere objects or property, but living beings with their own complex thoughts, emotions, and needs.

Morpurgo’s words stress the importance of recognizing animals as sentient beings, capable of experiencing pain, joy, and even humor. By listing animals as being not only intelligent and perceptive, but also funny and entertaining, he encourages a shift in perspective towards animals as companions and worthy of our care. The comparison to children is crucial here, as it suggests that just as we have a duty to protect and nurture children, we have the same responsibility to ensure animals are treated with kindness and respect.

The origin of this quote stems from Morpurgo’s lifelong advocacy for animal rights, as well as his experiences as an author who often explored themes of compassion and human-animal relationships. In many of his works, animals are not only central characters but are portrayed as partners in human stories, deserving of respect. His commitment to highlighting the importance of humane treatment for animals is reflected in this statement.

Ultimately, Morpurgo’s quote challenges us to rethink our relationship with animals, encouraging us to see them as sentient beings with emotions and intellect. It calls for a more empathetic and ethical approach to how we treat animals, advocating for a shift towards greater care and responsibility, similar to how we protect and nurture children.