'The work of Animals’ Angels is a great comfort.'

When did you discover the issue of animal transport for yourself?

In 2011, I signed the petition “8 Hours Are More Than Enough” in Hamburg, initiated by Animals’ Angels. I was shocked and wanted to learn more. That’s how I discovered Animals’ Angels. The organisation’s work deeply moved me, and the motto “We are there with the animals” stayed with me. Animal transport remains a key focus of my educational work to this day. When people think about animal welfare issues, they often picture slaughterhouses rather than the cruel conditions during transport. There is a lack of awareness, and I also notice this among teachers when I suggest the topic for classroom use.

You accompanied Animals’ Angels on their work twice. What was that like for you?

As an animal welfare educator and speaker on animal rights, it is important to me to report and explain as authentically as possible, whether in the classroom or in lectures. That is why it was very valuable for me to be able to accompany Animals’ Angels. However, witnessing the suffering of animals during transport or at markets was very painful. The work of Animals’ Angels is, at the same time, a great comfort. My respect and admiration for this organisation are unquestionable.

How do you teach this topic to children as an animal welfare educator?

A good way to practice and strengthen empathy is through role-playing. In a fifth-grade class, I had the children act out an animal transport after an introductory session to raise awareness of the topic.

Each child received a card with statements such as “I am hungry,” “I am thirsty,” or “I can no longer stand.” At the end, we discussed the experience as a group, and the children were able to share their thoughts and ideas for improvement, for example in the form of drawings.

Some teachers or parents consider the topic of ‘farm’ animals too difficult to discuss with children.

I don’t agree with that. Children are able to handle many topics. They have questions and want honest answers. What matters is that the approach is age-appropriate and that children enjoy learning—this is possible even with topics that are not pleasant.

Animals’ Angels currently primarily trains professionals such as veterinary authorities and the police. Should we also be more present in schools?

Definitely! And I am glad that the organisation is taking this path. Schools should also fulfil their educational mandate in this area. Otherwise, how should young people learn to make reflective decisions about their consumption behaviour?

What can each and every one of us do to reduce animal suffering?

Informing oneself and sharing the facts is a good starting point. Writing to the responsible politicians, signing petitions, taking part in demonstrations, and supporting Animals’ Angels are further options. But above all, one should avoid products that come from fellow sentient beings. In short, starting with oneself is the simplest and fastest way to prevent animal suffering.

This interview was published in our 2019 annual report.