The evolving history of mankind is replete with examples of dignity eroded and until attitudes change let it be said again:
"The practice of kindness toward helpless creatures is a sign of development to the higher reaches of intelligence and sympathy. For, mark you, in every place there are those who are giving of their time and thought and to the work of protecting from cruelty and needless suffering the beasts of the field and streets. And you will invariably find that these people are among the most progressive and sympathetic and intelligent of a city's populace. They are the leaders of every good work. These are the people who make the earth....more like what God intended it should be."
Laughton, John George 1891 - 1965
Presbyterian missionary