Animal liberation, or “mercy release” is a common practice in Buddhist tradition as it saves the animals from imminent death. By saving these animals, these animals are spared from suffering and are blessed for a future fortunate rebirth. Ideally, these practices are done in the pretext that the animals are released back to where they were captured, so that the ecosystem is being cared for. The people who practice animal liberation also gain great merits as one is creating the causes to experience good health and long life.

However, in Singapore, releasing animals into the wild may pose problems. This can include having too small of a space to release the animals, and the chances of these animals adapting or surviving are low. Having a foreign species introduced into a new ecosystem could invade the native species and disrupt the natural ecosystem.

Advocating for animal welfare 

In 2021, Thekchen Choling did videos with Just Keep Thinking to explain the implications of mercy release to the environment. Instead of releasing animals, Thekchen Choling’s approach to animal liberation is to promote animal welfare and improving the environment for the animals that we share this planet with. For example, planting corals is an alternative to animal liberation. (You can watch the video here!) 

By supporting initiatives that prioritise animal welfare, we can actively contribute to creating a more compassionate world for animals. Every year, many animals are abused or abandoned and require shelter and care. By donating to these organisations that care for the wellbeing of these animals, these animals are given a new and better life.

1) Choosing a compassionate diet 

Another impactful way to benefit animals is by reducing meat consumption or transitioning to a vegetarian diet. By consuming less meat, we practice compassion for the animals who also do not want suffering as they are being reared for food. This dietary choice aligns with Buddhist principles of non-harming and compassion towards all beings.

2) Supporting animal and environmental organisations

Several organisations champion the cause of animal welfare and conservation, providing opportunities for individuals to contribute meaningfully. Here are some beneficiaries that readers can explore and support:  

NParks Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS): AVS is the main touch-point for animal-related issues whether they occur in parks, nature reserves, or other parts of Singapore. They also work with the community in encouraging responsible pet ownership.

Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES): ACRES focuses on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, as well as education and advocacy for ethical treatment of animals in various settings.

Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD): ASD is a non-profit organization with the mission to improve the welfare of stray and abandoned dogs in Singapore with a strict no-kill policy.

Bunny Wonderland: Their motto, “No bunny gets left behind”, is a testament towards their mission to advocate for responsible pet ownership and to discourage people from supporting the unethical operation of the pet industry.

Metta Cats and Dogs Sanctuary: To provide a safe haven for injured, abused or abandoned animals, where all animals including old and special needs animals can live out the remainder of their days in safety and care.

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
- Mahatma Gandhi

3) Benefitting our Pets by Embracing Pets as Compassionate Companions

One of the ways individuals can cultivate compassion for all beings is through the companionship of pets. Pets, whether they are dogs, cats, or other animals, offer us an opportunity to practice patience, empathy, and unconditional love. By caring for our pets with kindness and understanding, we nurture qualities of compassion that extend beyond our immediate relationships to encompass all living beings.

"Animals are sentient beings. We have a responsibility to respect, protect, and care for them."
- Jane Goodall

4) Benefitting Our Pets with Dharma

In Buddhist practice, individuals can dedicate prayers and compassionate actions to benefit animals. By reciting prayers or mantras for the well-being and happiness of animals, we can help animals accumulate merits and have a higher and better rebirth in their next lives.

Even after the pet’s passing, we can also dedicate merits for them or inviting the Sangha to perform transmigratory prayers for their fortunate rebirth. This ensures the wellbeing of our pets for not just this life but also future lives.

"The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honourable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Compassion towards animals is a testament to our capacity for empathy, kindness, and our ability to create a more empathetic world for all. By embracing the principles of compassion, kindness, and interconnectedness, individuals can actively contribute to benefiting animals and creating a more compassionate world. On the eve of Vesak Day, Thekchen Choling will be organising an animal blessing night. Keep your eyes peeled and join us in celebrating love for all beings! 

Come down to our Animal Blessing Night 

On our Animal Blessing Night, there will be Sanghas performing blessings for pets. By placing holy objects on their forehead, your pets will have a strong affinity with Buddha for their future lives. This will also create the causes for your pet to have a good and healthy life.

There will also be pet friendly merit making activities, such as circumambulation of the holy stupa and also bathing of Buddha for your pet to accumulate great merits.

There will also be awareness booths where you can learn more about different animal organisations and their initiatives. Booths include: 

• NParks Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) 

• Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES),  

• Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD) 

• Bunny Wonderland 

• Metta Cats and Dogs Sanctuary (MCDS) 

Do come down with your pet on 21/5/2024 (Tue) from 7.30pm to 10pm for a meaningful Vesak and to understand how you can support these meaningful causes!