Animal agriculture stands on the belief that healthy animals make safe food. Those who produce food
animals agree with the veterinarian’s oath: “Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I
solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection
of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal
resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.” Today,
however, consumer concerns may cause two phrases in the oath to collide: “prevention and relief of
animal suffering,” and “promotion of public health.”