I wish people would realize that animals are totally dependent on us, helpless, like children, a trust that is put upon us.
James HerriotRead
I hope to make people realize how totally helpless animals are, how dependent on us, trusting as a child must that we will be kind and take care of their needs.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the vulnerability of animals and our responsibility to care for them, similar to how children rely on adults for support.
James Herriot's quote highlights the inherent dependence and trust that animals place in humans, akin to the innocent reliance of a child on their caregivers. It serves as a poignant reminder of our duty to protect and nurture vulnerable beings who cannot advocate for themselves, urging compassion and responsibility in our interactions with animals.
Themes
AnimalsHelplessnessCareTrustResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote during a speech at an animal rights event to emphasize the need for compassion.
More from James Herriot
All quotes →I have felt cats rubbing their faces against mine and touching my cheek with claws carefully sheathed. These things, to me, are expressions of love.
James HerriotRead
I love writing about my job because I loved it, and it was a particularly interesting one when I was a young man. It was like holidays with pay to me.
James HerriotRead
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