Insensitive?

Maybe I don't have a heart? Maybe I have a heart, but like the Grinch, it is two sizes too small? Or, maybe I am just realistic, and a tiny bit outraged at what I believe to be the frivolous use of our judicial system. What am I talking about you ask? Tainted Pet Food (gasp)!

You can read more on the story here: www.cnn.com/2007/US/03/17/petfood.recall.ap/index.html

And the subsequent lawsuits here:
http://cbs13.com/pets/local_story_080091948.html

Now, I've never had a pet of any kind, outside of a few fish here and there growing up. And I know people love their dogs and cats and become very attached. But, at the end of the day, its an animal, not a human being. And I suppose that its a bummer that they died of something like kidney failure instead of the natural way - getting run over, or suffering into old age. But, its an animal. Yes, some animals are very expensive, and I understand that - but there are millions more at shelters all over the world that need a home and can be obtained very easily and inexpensively, or even free. And lets face it, your pet was going to die anyway, eventually - your kids would have been just as devasted, your friend and companion would still be decomposing under a mound of dirt in your back yard next to the big oak tree, your pet would have eventually kicked the bucket.

I'm sure the company is terribly sorry. For goodness sakes, the financial impact of this recall is being estimated at the Canadian equivalent of $26 million to $34 million. And lets not forget that this firm is one of the largest pet food manufacturers in the world (which means they employs a lot of people) - if things get too out of control the financial impacts could reach as far as company downsizing, stocks being devalued, etc.

I agree that the manufacturer should perhaps compensate the couple of dozen pet owners for their vets bills, and maybe even a monetary amount sufficient to 'replace' the aminal - i.e. - go pick one out from a shelter. But pain and suffering - that was coming anyway. This has no business in our court system. Please, settle out of court (and not for millions...not even for thousands) and lets save those time slots for cases with merit. You are free to dissagree.