What is the difference between legal protections for animals and humane treatment of animals?

The difference between legal protections for animals and humane treatment of animals lies in the scope of each concept. Legal protections are written and enforceable laws that are designed to safeguard the rights of animals and provide criminal and civil remedies when necessary. For example, Tennessee has Animal Cruelty laws, which criminalize malicious abuse and neglect of animals. Humane treatment of animals embraces a respectful and compassionate attitude towards animals. It is more than just following the specific legal protections that are in place, it involves going beyond the law and providing caring, responsible stewardship for animals. Humane treatment of animals encompasses providing shelter, medical care, adequate nutrition, exercise and socialization. It also includes activities such as spaying and neutering as well as avoiding any practices deemed inhumane. For example, some Tennessee laws prohibit purposely injuring horses and other equines. Humane treatment of animals goes beyond avoiding deliberate harm, and would also include providing positive, caring care for the horse’s physical and mental wellbeing. The difference between legal protections and humane treatment, then, is that legal protections provide a baseline of acceptable behavior, while humane treatment is a more proactive approach to respecting animals and their natural needs.

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What is the difference between legal protections for animals and humane treatment of animals?

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