Petra, hang in there....... I too am an animal lover.

I'm not a vegetarian, though I've thought about it, I can't figure that one out quite - much less torture my large family with trying to wrap my brain around the nutrition issues while I/we transitioned -- just too much going on in my life to make that sort of a focus shift right now. Maybe at some point. But I do care where it comes from, and wish I could do more (financially) resource-wise to make sure what I do buy has been well-cared for and gently raised. I am sure most of what I do eat, is most likely not.

John, above, I hear what you're saying re: the groundhog; my solution in that circumstance would be phoning Animal Control or see what gloves & equipment I may have in my car to take it safely (without further harm to it or me) to a vet to be put down.
That's me though.

I helped a turtle across the street once. Pulled over and carried it to the other side - I was just sure it was going to get hit. It peed on me. smile Some thanks - but I'm sure I must've scared it, saving it.

I do hope the food gets to the rescued animals -- I hear those who are saying help the people first, and I've been promoting links on my Facebook to organizations that DO funnel every penny to assistance and none to overhead, for this cause, myself.

But something does need to be done for those who cannot help themselves, who have no voice.

Petra, you might like Brian May's Save-Me Forum too. smile
(don't have the link in front of me - search Save Me on Facebook, or Google) It's a good site - all about helping animals live a decent life and saving them from things humans can prevent them from suffering.

I really like & appreciate what Brian has to say, which echoes what Kim and a couple others have said here, that every species, every animal, placed here has the right to live on this planet. Without being used to extortion or excess or destroyed for sport without need. I know others will disagree with me on that, but that's how I feel about it.

Best wishes to all who are suffering in Japan - and everywhere - man or animal.

Linda