It was a big mistake. As a certified country farm boy, I know we keep animals differently, and yes, often have to kill them, even when you know they had an attachment to you. Maybe because you were the kid that brought the bucket of slop, or corn, or fed them carrots with your friends...
But to me, putting down an animal makes me sad, even when it has to be done. Same with hunting, even fishing.
But I am a meat eater, and respect what the animals can give me.
Now I am partial to dogs, and just would break my heart to put one down. I’ve done so at the vet many times with a shot. Cost a little more, but that’s my choice. I’ve had dogs with me all my life, minus the times I lived in the barracks.
She should never have told this story! It doesn’t affect me much but does the majority of folks. Dogs are different, they’re not livestock. Even a working dog is more a partner.
Very little political savvy to tell that story.