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Antibiotic resistance - two words that sound like the plot of a dystopian sci-fi novel but are very much the reality we’re facing. Bacteria are becoming harder to kill, antibiotics are becoming less effective, and once-treatable infections are now potentially deadly. While scientists work to develop new drugs, the inconvenient truth is that one of the biggest culprits behind this crisis isn’t hiding in some secret lab. It’s on your plate.Let’s not mince words: the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture is a ticking time bomb. Yet the role of animal farming in creating and spreading antibiotic-resistant bacteria is something too few people want to confront. So here’s the blunt question: are you contributing to this global health crisis, or are you vegan? Factory Farms: Breeding Grounds for ResistanceAntibiotics are powerful tools in medicine, designed to save lives by fighting infections. But in animal agriculture, they’re used for a very different reason. Animals in factory farms are often kept in cramped, filthy conditions that would make an inspector’s head spin if they weren’t from within the industry. These environments are so disease-prone that farmers routinely dose animals with antibiotics—not to treat sickness, but to prevent it. In fact, up to 70% of all antibiotics used worldwide are given to farmed animals, not humans.It doesn’t stop there. Low doses of antibiotics are also used to fatten animals up faster—a bizarre, profit-driven side effect discovered decades ago. The result? A perfect storm. When bacteria are exposed to antibiotics in small doses over long periods, they learn how to survive. They adapt. Bacteria can reproduce every 20 minutes, they evolve right before our eyes. They become resistant. And when these antibiotic-resistant bacteria spill out of farms - through animal waste, contaminated water, or even the meat itself - they enter the wider environment, including our food chain.Still feel good about that burger? Antibiotics on Your Plate (and Beyond)If you think this doesn’t affect you, think again. The next time you sit down to a meat-heavy meal, you’re not just consuming animal flesh; you’re also ingesting traces of antibiotics, drug-resistant bacteria, and the consequences of a broken system. When people eat meat from animals raised on antibiotics, they risk introducing resistant bacteria into their gut microbiomes. Those bacteria don’t just hang out quietly; they have the potential to spread resistance to other microbes.And it’s not just food. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria travel. They seep into soil and water systems, hitch rides on workers’ clothing, and even make their way into urban centres. This isn’t just a farming problem - it’s an everyone problem.It is estimated that bacterial resistance was directly responsible for 1.27 million global deaths in 2019 and contributed to 4.95 million deaths.&nbsp; The Cost of ResistanceWhat does antibiotic resistance mean in real terms? It means more people dying from simple infections. It means routine surgeries, childbirth, and even minor cuts becoming risky ventures. It means diseases that were once easy to treat - like urinary tract infections or pneumonia - becoming potentially fatal. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that if we don’t act now, by 2050 antibiotic resistance could kill 10 million people per year. That’s more than cancer.And guess what? All the handwashing, mask-wearing, and hand sanitiser in the world won’t fix this problem if we keep enabling it through animal agriculture. The system itself is rotten, and antibiotics are just one tool keeping it duct-taped together. Plantbased diets: A Solution in Plain SightHere’s where the conversation shifts. By removing animal products from your diet, you’re cutting your support for an industry that guzzles antibiotics.Consider the impact. If everyone went vegan, the demand for farmed animals would vanish. No factory farms, no crowded pens, no routine antibiotic use. Antibiotic resistance would still exist - it’s a natural phenomenon - but the biggest, most preventable source of resistance would be eliminated.The meat and dairy industries are driving this crisis, and choosing veganism is one of the most effective ways to stop fuelling the fire. The Cognitive Dissonance ProblemHere’s the wild part: many people who worry about antibiotic resistance don’t think twice about eating animal products. They’ll cry for their relative who died from a drug-resistant “superbug” and then include chicken wings at the wake buffet.It’s the same cognitive dissonance that lets people mourn their dog while eating a pig, or denounce deforestation while eating a steak.The truth is, we’re conditioned not to make these connections. Advertising, cultural norms, and the sheer ubiquity of animal products make it easy to compartmentalise. But at some point, we have to ask ourselves: if we’re genuinely concerned about public health, why aren’t we acting on the biggest contributors to these crises? What About "Sustainable Meat"?Some people cling to the idea of "sustainable" or "antibiotic-free" meat as a get-out-of-guilt-free card. Let’s debunk that right now. Antibiotic-free labels might sound reassuring, but they don’t address the core issue: animal farming itself. Even without antibiotics, factory farms still concentrate animals in unsanitary conditions, creating breeding grounds for disease. And while free-range or organic systems might use fewer antibiotics, they’re still part of a system that exploits animals and depletes resources.Let’s not pretend that slapping a green label on meat fixes anything. The Bigger PictureAntibiotic resistance isn’t just an animal farming issue; it’s a justice issue. The overuse of antibiotics disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, especially in low-income regions where access to healthcare is limited. When resistant infections spread, it’s often the poorest communities that suffer most.And then there’s the environmental fallout. Factory farms generate massive amounts of waste, much of it laced with antibiotics and resistant bacteria. This waste contaminates water supplies, harms wildlife, and disrupts ecosystems. Again, this isn’t just about what’s on your plate - it’s about the world we all share. It’s Not Too LateThe good news? This is a crisis we can do something about. Choosing veganism isn’t just a personal decision; it’s a statement against the systems driving antibiotic resistance. It’s a way of saying, “I refuse to contribute to this injustice.”And if you’re already vegan, take this information and spread it. Educate others. Hold the industry accountable. Push for policies that restrict antibiotic use in farming and support plant-based agriculture. Every conversation, every social media post, every choice matters. The Bottom LineThe question is simple: are you part of the solution or part of the problem? Are you contributing to the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant diseases, or are you vegan? There’s no grey area here. The stakes are too high, and the evidence is too clear.So the next time someone talks about antibiotic resistance, ask them what’s on their plate.

The Industry Behind Tomorrow’s Plagues

<h2>The Rise of Plant-Based Diets</h2>One of the most significant trends in animal rights advocacy is the growing popularity of plant-based diets. More people are becoming aware of the ethical, environmental, and health benefits of reducing or eliminating animal products from their diets. This shift is driven by increased access to information about the conditions in which animals are raised and the impact of animal agriculture on the planet.Documentaries, social media campaigns, and influential figures endorsing plant-based lifestyles have played a crucial role in spreading awareness. As a result, there has been a notable increase in the availability of plant-based options in restaurants and grocery stores, making it easier for individuals to make compassionate choices.<figure id="figure-4dn45cza3m3z23eta"><img id="4dn45cza3m3z23eta" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1183008025/photo/healthy-veggie-burger.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=sQ97Z6Lj0uZQwJ8TSNysSouFftQPY-7Xxvhczrffo2w=" alt="plant-based food" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure><h2>Legislative Advances</h2>Another encouraging trend in animal rights advocacy is the progress being made on the legislative front. Governments around the world are enacting laws to protect animals from cruelty and exploitation. For instance, several countries have banned the use of wild animals in circuses, recognizing the inherent cruelty involved in such practices.In addition, there have been significant strides in banning or restricting the use of animals in testing for cosmetics and other products. These legislative changes reflect a growing consensus that animals deserve protection and respect.<h2>Corporate Responsibility</h2>Corporations are increasingly being held accountable for their treatment of animals. Consumers are demanding transparency and ethical practices from companies, leading to positive changes in various industries. For example, many fashion brands are moving away from using fur, leather, and other animal-derived materials in favor of cruelty-free alternatives.Similarly, the food industry is seeing a surge in companies committing to higher welfare standards for the animals in their supply chains. This shift is driven by consumer demand and the recognition that ethical practices can also be good for business.<figure id="figure-x9brz7ha5m3z23eta"><img id="x9brz7ha5m3z23eta" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2129024596/photo/diverse-multiethnic-partners-hands-together-teamwork-group-of-multiracial-people-meeting-join.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=Vo3e6lC6o48BUs0pmrLjE0kbeKJrMYoF-NnOFQjEwLE=" alt="corporate responsibility" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure><h2>Technological Innovations</h2>Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in advancing animal rights. Innovations such as lab-grown meat and plant-based alternatives are providing sustainable and cruelty-free options for consumers. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize the food industry by reducing the reliance on traditional animal agriculture.Moreover, advancements in virtual reality and artificial intelligence are being used to educate people about the realities of animal exploitation. Virtual reality experiences can immerse individuals in the environments where animals are kept, fostering empathy and driving change.<h2>Grassroots Movements</h2>Grassroots movements and community-based advocacy are also gaining momentum in the fight for animal rights. Local organizations and activists are working tirelessly to raise awareness, rescue animals, and promote humane practices. These efforts are often supported by volunteers who are passionate about making a difference.Events such as animal rights marches, vegan festivals, and educational workshops are becoming more common, providing platforms for advocates to connect, share information, and inspire others to join the cause.<figure id="figure-tcynvcmw8bm3z23eta"><img id="tcynvcmw8bm3z23eta" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1072338828/photo/group-of-american-activists-is-protesting.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=sRBUSI6Biodq4fAle5qln-9ok8GeeDPrZJbUogmYrDI=" alt="animal rights march" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure><h2>Educational Outreach</h2>Education is a cornerstone of animal rights advocacy. By informing the public about the realities of animal suffering and the benefits of compassionate choices, advocates can drive meaningful change. Schools, universities, and community organizations are increasingly incorporating animal rights topics into their curricula and programs.Educational outreach also includes providing resources and support for individuals looking to transition to a more humane lifestyle. This can involve cooking classes, informational websites, and support groups that help people navigate the journey toward more ethical living.<h2>Intersectionality in Advocacy</h2>Intersectionality is becoming a key focus in animal rights advocacy. Activists are recognizing the connections between various forms of oppression and are working to address these issues holistically. This approach acknowledges that the fight for animal rights is interconnected with other social justice movements, such as environmental justice, human rights, and racial equality.By adopting an intersectional approach, advocates can build stronger coalitions and create more comprehensive strategies for achieving their goals. This inclusive mindset helps to ensure that the movement is diverse and representative of all voices.<figure id="figure-eumb6cm75m3z23eta"><img id="eumb6cm75m3z23eta" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2174148262/photo/gavel-resting-between-american-and-rainbow-pride-flags-representing-equality-and-justice-in-a.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=jVDsifmXihDN8QH7-MJS9BSDw96X1H50MpyOqmRC7YQ=" alt="intersectionality advocacy" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure><h2>The Role of Social Media</h2>Social media continues to be a powerful tool for animal rights advocacy. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter allow activists to reach a global audience, share impactful stories, and mobilize supporters. Viral campaigns and hashtags can bring attention to specific issues and drive collective action.Influencers and celebrities who use their platforms to speak out for animals can amplify the message and inspire their followers to get involved. Social media also provides a space for advocates to connect, collaborate, and share resources, strengthening the movement as a whole.

Exploring the Latest Trends in Animal Rights Advocacy

The innovative race for plant-based seafood alternatives is heating up and Revo Foods stands out by venturing beyond traditional fish substitutes to introduce a vegan octopus named "The Kraken - Inspired by Octopus." Crafted from mycoprotein, a nutrient-rich protein from fungi mycelium, this product mimics the texture and taste of octopus tentacles, complete with a realistic appearance, including suction cups and a purple hue. The Kraken can be enjoyed in various dishes, either cooked or straight from the package. This new product presents another opportunity for us to reconsider our dietary choices and the impact they have on sentient beings.Octopuses are among the most intelligent and emotionally complex creatures in the ocean, known for their remarkable problem-solving abilities, use of tools, and capacity for play.&nbsp;Available across much of Europe, The Kraken targets not only vegans but also meat-eaters interested in reducing their meat consumption, reflecting a broader trend towards plant-based diets. Priced at €5.99 for a package containing three tentacle pieces, it offers an accessible option for those looking to explore seafood alternatives.This development is particularly timely, given the rise of octopus farming, which involves capturing and raising these highly intelligent animals for food.This plant-based octopus substitute is not merely an alternative; it's a statement against the commodification of sentient life, urging us to consider a path that respects the complexity and value of all creatures, encouraging a shift towards more ethical and compassionate dietary choices. In the 21st century we can enjoy all of the flavours of the sea without contributing to the suffering of its inhabitants.

Sea Change: The Kraken

A large, fat, and woolly farm sheep lays its head on the ground near a clump of poop. The ewe is looking straight ahead and its ears are pointing up. The sheep's coat is dirty and in need of shearing

Two agricultural students are facing charges of "causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and criminal damage" following the brutal killing of a sheep on the South Downs in Sussex. Sussex Police confirmed the arrest of an 18-year-old and a 20-year-old from Kent, both allegedly affiliated with Plumpton College's Agriculture department. Two additional individuals are being treated as key witnesses.The incident unfolded on the night of Thursday, November 2nd when students divulged the gruesome details to farmer Michael Lunn, under whom they were apprenticed at Coopers Farm in Hadlow Down. Lunn, horrified by the account, revealed that the four individuals had callously attacked the sheep by kicking them in the head while they were still alive. They then opened them up, inserted a firework, and detonated it, resulting in their gruesome death.Superintendent Rachel Swinney emphasised the seriousness of the investigation, urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward. Plumpton College responded with swift action, suspending all four students during the ongoing police inquiry. College Principal Jeremy Kerswell expressed profound dismay, emphasising that the incident does not reflect the institution's expected standards of behaviour or its commitment to animal welfare.Despite this, Lunn, speaking to Sussex Express, insisted that expulsion should be the consequence for the guilty students. But this is NOT an isolated incident, in 2017 at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire students were expelled and suspended for posting cruel acts on Snapchat, including harming a fox cub, a protected badger, and a staff member's cat. Concerns were raised about the lack of significant consequences, allowing such individuals to potentially enter the animal farming industry.In a disturbing incident in February 2023, students from the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester displayed a dead fox during a charity event, attaching them to the roof of a car in a rodeo-themed spectacle. Despite public outcry, Gloucestershire police did not identify any criminal activity in this case.These incidents won't startle animal rights advocates familiar with the inherent and systemic abuse embedded in animal agriculture. What distinguishes these cases from the grim backdrop of routine animal abuse is the underlying motivation - profit. The daily acts of sexual assault, confinement, and mutilation inflicted upon animals are driven by financial gain with random acts of violence, while common in the industry, having no justification in society.Of course, none of this is justified. Financial motives cannot excuse animal abuse. Vegans exemplify daily that a fulfilling life is possible without intentionally causing harm much less revelling in it.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.change.org/p/expel-students-involved-in-animal-cruelty-at-plumpton-college-and-ensure-legal-action" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://www.change.org/p/expel-students-involved-in-animal-cruelty-at-plumpton-college-and-ensure-legal-action">SIGN THE PETITION: Expel Students Involved in Animal Cruelty at Plumpton College and Ensure Legal Action</a> <h1 class="corgi-hgie56" data-qa="petition-title"> </h1>

Agriculture Students Arrested for Firework Attack

A sheep dubbed “Britain’s loneliest sheep,” has become the center of a scandalous media frenzy. Fiona's ordeal involving her prolonged isolation on a perilous cliffside in the Scottish Highlands, has culminated not in salvation but a gross betrayal. After a harrowing two years spent alone, battling for survival, Fiona's so-called "rescue" is nothing short of a disgrace - a stark display of humanity’s callousness.The situation escalated when the activist group Animal Rising, whose intention was to transfer Fiona to the safety of a sanctuary, was outmaneuvered by farmers who unscrupulously whisked her away to a petting zoo - a place synonymous with animal exploitation.This ewe, who valiantly fended for herself in harsh conditions, now faces a life shackled by the whims of human entertainment. The grim reality is that the petting zoo is no safe harbor; it's a venue where animals are commodified, subjected to constant handling and stress, and Fiona's anticipated fate is a cruel testament to this.The outcry from animal rights campaigners has been seismic, yet the gravity of Fiona's predicament seems lost on the masses, who are hoodwinked by the facade of a ‘rescue.’ This incident isn't just about Fiona; it exposes the systemic abuse that is rampant in sheep farming - an industry marred by unchecked cruelty, where sheep are bred to overproduce wool and are subjected to barbaric shearing practices, all in the name of profit.What transpired on November 4th, when Fiona was hauled up from the cliff in a canvas sack, wasn’t a rescue - it was a hijacking. The farmers’ audacity to execute such a maneuver, one that undermines Animal Rising’s compassionate efforts, is appalling. Their alliance with a landowner, who only saw fit to act under the pressure of bad press and royal discomfort, is a chilling reminder of how far we are from a just world for animals.Even as Fiona remains a pawn in a larger scheme of exploitation, the fight for her freedom continues. The public’s outrage must now be channeled to ensure that she, and countless others like her, are not merely shuffled from one form of captivity to another. It’s not just about rescuing an animal; it’s about dismantling an entrenched system of exploitation, piece by piece.In a just society, Fiona’s story wouldn’t be a footnote but a catalyst for change, leading to a future where every sheep is recognized not by the wool on their back or the label of 'lonely,' but as individuals worthy of a life free from human-induced suffering.Sign the petition: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/free-fiona-for-britains-loneliest-sheep-to-spend-her-life-peacefully-at-a-sanctuary/" data-mce-href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/free-fiona-for-britains-loneliest-sheep-to-spend-her-life-peacefully-at-a-sanctuary/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Free Fiona - For Britain's Loneliest Sheep to Spend her Life Peacefully at a Sanctuary</a><figure id="figure-u7fpmauejloneeswg"><iframe id="u7fpmauejloneeswg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g8vYNe1SPOQ" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/g8vYNe1SPOQ?si=g7GmVlFBOXOW5kde" data-corners="default" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g8vYNe1SPOQ" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

‘Britain’s Loneliest Sheep’

Animal rights is an important topic that many people are passionate about. However, since not everyone is vegan, talking about animal rights can be a difficult subject to broach with friends and family who may not share your views. Here are some tips for how to talk about animal rights with non-vegan friends and family.<h2>Start with Compassion</h2>When talking about animal rights, it's important to start from a place of compassion and understanding. Many people may not be aware of the suffering that animals endure in the food and clothing industries, so it's important to approach the subject with empathy and kindness.<h3>Use Facts and Statistics</h3>One way to help non-vegan friends and family understand the importance of animal rights is to use facts and statistics. For example, did you know that over 56 billion land animals are killed every year for food? Or that the leather industry is responsible for the deaths of millions of animals each year?<figure id="figure-qbdtj2f2n9lkm1g6p0"><img id="qbdtj2f2n9lkm1g6p0" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1605823313712-db80e6af14be?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxhbmltYWwlMjByaWdodHN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkwNTE1NzgyfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="animal rights" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1605823313712-db80e6af14be?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxhbmltYWwlMjByaWdodHN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkwNTE1NzgyfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Be Prepared to Answer Questions</h2>When talking about animal rights, it's important to be prepared to answer questions. Non-vegan friends and family may have concerns about the nutritional value of a plantbased diet, or they may be unsure about the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Be prepared to answer these questions with accurate information and resources.<h3>Lead by Example</h3>One of the best ways to promote animal rights is to lead by example. Show your friends and family how delicious and fulfilling a vegan lifestyle can be by preparing delicious plant-based meals and snacks. You can also share your favorite vegan products and resources with them.<figure id="figure-3bqkylsf46lkm1ga2b"><img id="3bqkylsf46lkm1ga2b" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1532768641073-503a250f9754?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8dmVnYW4lMjBmb29kfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MDQ1NDg4M3ww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="vegan food" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1532768641073-503a250f9754?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8dmVnYW4lMjBmb29kfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MDQ1NDg4M3ww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Encourage Small Changes</h2>Not everyone is ready to make the switch to a vegan lifestyle overnight. Encourage your non-vegan friends and family to make small changes, such as reducing their meat consumption or choosing cruelty-free products. Every little helps!<h3>Stay Positive</h3>Finally, it's important to stay positive when talking about animal rights. It can be easy to become frustrated or discouraged when faced with resistance or skepticism, but remember that every conversation is an opportunity to educate and inspire change.<figure id="figure-n9rr3r4rclkm1gd7x"><img id="n9rr3r4rclkm1gd7x" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1614640514617-684c8b4c3403?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMnx8YW5pbWFsJTIwbG92ZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTA1MTU3OTF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="animal love" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1614640514617-684c8b4c3403?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMnx8YW5pbWFsJTIwbG92ZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTA1MTU3OTF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2>Talking about animal rights with non-vegan friends and family can be challenging, but with compassion, patience, and a commitment to education, it is possible to make a difference. Remember to lead by example, use facts and statistics, and encourage small changes, and above all, stay positive!

Herbivore Club

ARTICLES

The Industry Behind Tomorrow’s Plagues

Exploring the Latest Trends in Animal Rights Advocacy

Sea Change: The Kraken

Agriculture Students Arrested for Firework Attack

‘Britain’s Loneliest Sheep’

How to Talk About Animal Rights with Non-Vegan Friends an...