It was practically since the day I was born that I knew there were other species on this planet. Not that I had a concept of it, but I understood that there was a being, different from me, living in the same household, our boxer dog named Chaquira.
I was immediately connected to her. It was pure energy. Being with my dog made me happy.
Growing up in Mexico meant having absolutely no restrictions regarding animal products in my diet. I never questioned it; it was normal. I was exposed to animals like pigs, cows and chickens and I was naturally curious about them, but I made no connection between them and their flesh being on my plate.
I was introduced to vegetarianism in my mid-twenties. I chose to follow that diet because I thought it could be beneficial to me. I learned that my body was able to live without consuming animals’ flesh, but I was still eating eggs, cheese, and other dairy products.
Everything changed when I watched a documentary explaining how in some countries, they consume dog meat. I briefly saw what happens to the dogs to become someone’s food. The reality of this and the process shook me to my core, to say the least.
I finally made the connection. It became clear that if dogs, arguably my favorite animal on this planet, are capable of suffering, the other species are as well.
I began educating myself and realized that pigs, cows, chickens and all the animals used for consumption and other purposes are also sentient beings. How could I possibly be part of this torturous system? I couldn’t.
I remained consistent in acquiring knowledge about the use and abuse of animals in all kinds of industries, hence my transition from omnivore to vegetarian, to plant-based, to finally vegan.
This isn’t a habit or a discipline; this is my biggest passion. I recognize all animals as our co-habitants on this planet. I respect their role in the ecosystem and honor their lives as much as I do mine and other fellow humans.
Knowing that animals are capable and deserving of living a happy life, is all I need to be sure that I’ll always be vegan.
