Animal Liberation

 Where there is a mind, there are feelings such as pain, pleasure, and joy. No sentient being wants pain; instead all want happiness. Since we all share these feelings at some basic level, we as rational human beings have an obligation to contribute in whatever way we can to the happiness of other species and try our best to relieve their fears sufferings. —His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

Lama Zopa RInpoche with a white dog

All living beings, no matter how big or small, value their lives. Just like us, every ant, worm, chicken, cow, and fish seeks happiness and wants to avoid suffering. Unfortunately, every day, billions of helpless animals are slaughtered for human consumption, used as live bait or food for other animals, and killed for their skins and fur, among many other fates of immense suffering.

Fortunately, we can help relieve this suffering through the compassionate practice of animal liberation. Reaching out to the precious animals that need us, rescuing them from imminent death or harm, and then introducing them to holy objects and Buddhist prayers provides comfort and happiness while creating causes for the animals to meet the Dharma in future lives.

Animal liberation is also an extremely strong practice for benefitting humans. Protecting life, easing the causes of suffering, and working for the happiness of animals brings many positive results. This practice:

  • Promotes longevity
  • Is a powerful method for fighting disease and illness
  • Generates positive energy to comfort and support the dying
  • Purifies vast amounts of negative karma
  • Provides an empowering way to face health obstacles
  • Gives us the opportunity to open our hearts and eliminate suffering

Following the strong encouragement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, please rejoice with us in celebrating the lives of animals and all sentient beings through the beautiful practice of animal liberation.

“They all want happiness and do not want to suffer, and they all want you to give love . . . we can do practices now to liberate these animals, to release them from the realms of suffering.” —Lama Zopa Rinpoche