Farm animals serve an incredibly important purpose all over the world.
They help to provide us with everything from food, to fuel, to clothing, and every continent around the world utilizes them in some way.
But unfortunately, though we rely on them so heavily, we don't always show them the kindness and respect that they deserve, like this big spoiled pig.
Though factory farms contribute to most of farm animals' neglect and abuse, their mistreatment can occur on smaller farms, as well.
This is particularly prevalent for little calves who are frequently raised and sold to be turned into veal.
Though not all farms have inhumane practices in place for their meat-yielding animals, some cruelly abuse and starve their steers during the process.
These practices were near fatal for adorable little Theo, who was set to be turned into veal before he was saved by the police.
Now, Theo is living a happier life on a different farm and serves to highlight how important it is for us to know where our food is coming from.
[H/T: Huffington Post]
Little Theo was born on a dairy farm in Maine.
But since he was bull, therefore unable to be milked, he was sold off to a farm to be turned into veal — a fate that befalls many bovine babies.
However, the person who bought Theo has also an illegal dog breeder, meaning the little calf had been born into a very abusive life.
But thankfully, the criminal activity and abuse was one day stopped in its tracks when police unexpectedly raided the farm.
When they found and seized poor Theo, he was only 75 lbs., compared to the healthy calf weight of 170.
After Theo was saved by law enforcement, he was taken in by Peace Ridge Sanctuary, which serves as a refuge for neglected or abused animals — specifically, farm animals!
Today, Theo is a healthy happy steer with normal weight, and definitely doesn't resemble the feeble calf he used to be.
He is also a big fan of other farm animals, and frequently frolics around with the goats and horses on the farm.
Though Theo's story ends happily, it is also a cautionary tale for the (sometimes) questionable practices farmers have with baby bulls.
Even if they're born on a dairy farm, bulls and steers are often destined to become veal, a very controversial practice nowadays.
Though all farms are different, Theo's harrowing tale reminds us to be mindful of our food and where it is coming from.
That way, more ethical farms can continue to flourish, while animals like Theo can live better lives!
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