Attitudes towards animals are still based, in large part, on the mind-set that humans are distinct from all other species and that their existence is to serve the needs of people. The vast majority of our interaction with other species is of exploitation or abuse, whether it be the use of animals to entertain or amuse us, for so-called sport, as in hunting, for food consumption, clothing, research, product testing, and as pets. Basically, for everything to satisfy our whims and desires and often justified as necessity or part of culture or tradition.

Attempts to protect animal welfare and to shift the imbalance of animals from being regarded as property have been met with all kinds of ridicule, opposition and obstacles. Those with vested interests generally have the resources to influence legislation (money talks) and to manipulate the media. Power equals control and throughout history it's been a challenge to elevate the status of the weaker and the oppressed. However, progress has been made with respect to human rights, and the tide of change is ever so slowly moving in a direction of a broad social movement that recognizes and is demanding increased animal protection legislation and reform.