A clean backyard is not the same as an enriching environment. Animal welfare science shows that boredom is a form of suffering. A dog left alone in a sterile yard may be physically safe but mentally impoverished.

Obesity is one of the leading health risks for domestic pets, leading to joint issues and diabetes.

A compassionate society builds bridges. This means:

We are only now fully acknowledging that animals have complex emotional lives. They experience jealousy, grief, joy, and chronic anxiety.