There is an inherent need for freedom in every living thing, including plants. All life must be free or it will not survive. Free to procreate, to get food, to be able to avoid enemies.

Plants must be free to spread their seed and their roots or their species will die out.

Animals in cages or fetters struggle to be free. Humans in prisons, a ladybug in a jar, rabbits, hamsters and birds in cages, and dogs on chains all suffer far more from having no freedom than they do from a lack of food, water, or shelter.

Animals in cages, barns, corrals, aquariums, in zoos, in "wildlife refuges", and on chains, are all prisoners of humans who are using them for something.

In the case of pets, humans use them as companions. They make great companions, demanding little, never arguing, giving love unconditionally, and giving us a purpose and a sense of worth.

But they all pay for our pleasure. Ali has written perfectly on the price we exact from our "beloved pets".