Buddhism and Hinduism contain extensive traditions of animal protection and welfare ethics that have shaped both philosophical frameworks and legal protections in many countries.
Buddhist and Hindu traditions offer philosophical resources for animal welfare advocacy that engage differently from utilitarian or rights-based Western frameworks. The concept of interconnection — all beings participating in the same web of suffering and liberation — provides a basis for animal concern that resonates with hundreds of millions of people. Engaging animal welfare advocacy through existing religious frameworks can reach communities where secular ethical arguments have less traction.