The Dalai Lama XIV once said, “Life is as dear to a mute creature as it is to man.
Just as one wants happiness and fears pain, just as one wants to live and not die, so do other creatures.”
This quote resonates profoundly when considering the life of Bandit the bull.
Bandit had spent his entire existence tethered to a pole, confined to a small corner of a building.
Can any creature ever truly adapt to such a life?
Is it because they can’t communicate with us that they are condemned to endure such a life?
Sarah, in a conversation with Rolling Stone, said, “We’re not trying to end meat or start a panic.
But there’s a decent way to raise animals for food, and this is the farthest thing from it.”
A video that went viral in August 2014 and continues to be shared today, with over 30 million views, tells Bandit’s story.
Bandit had only known life in a confined space, unable to move freely, run, or even see the sky.
Some in the farming industry might think that “it’s okay,” but it’s not.
The video shows the moment a man from Gut Aiderbichl, wearing a red shirt, approached Bandit.
Bandit licked the man, sensing his good intentions.
The excitement in Bandit’s eyes was palpable as the man set him free.
For a moment, Bandit seemed unable to believe his newfound freedom.
He walked slowly, even turning to look at his neighbors who were still chained.
Then, he jumped!
His actions were a testament that bovines, like all animals, can communicate and feel emotions.
Bandit felt the hay on his face, he leaped, and he ran – Bandit was performing his freedom dance, and it was a sight to behold!
Bandit was then taken to Gut Aiderbichl animal sanctuary by Christian.
As soon as the vehicle’s door was opened, Bandit’s eyes lit up.
He immediately ran and leaped again.
Bandit is now happy and free.
His gratitude was evident when he approached Christian and rested his head on his legs, as if to say “thank you.”
His actions were enough to touch the hearts of millions and show that they too deserve a better life.
Studies have shown that dairy cows and cattle are more sensitive than we think.
In 2014, Daniel Weary, an applied animal biologist at the University of British Columbia, and his colleagues explained how a cow’s brain can be permanently transformed as a result of early life trauma.
From being separated from their mothers to undergoing hot-iron dehorning, these animals are traumatized.
“It’s important to provide a good quality of life for them at an early age, not just in terms of their immediate ability to enjoy life, but also in terms of the long-term effects that we have on these animals,” says Weary.
Bandit’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of treating all creatures with kindness and respect.
His freedom dance is a testament to the joy and relief that comes with liberation, and his story continues to touch the hearts of millions around the world.
See this memorable moment in the video below!
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