I Hate Animal Charity Guilt Trips

Don't you just hate it when you're watching television, chilling out, eating food that you yourself have worked very hard for and you're made to feel guilty when an advert about the less fortunate in life comes on to make you feel bad. The worst is the RSPCA and the Dog's Trust, when you are forced to watch some cat or dog in a cardboard box or empty house (clearly out of harms way), being personified by a human voice with an overly pathetic tone to try and remotely touch the sentiments of the viewer, and this goes on for a whole thirty seconds (if we are lucky, and providing we don't change the channel). Yes, we get it, there are animals out there which are being abused. But let’s face it - unless it’s in your interest, they are clearly not on the list of your priorities.

OK, I can understand that some of these charities do not get government funding when they deserve it, and it does alert the world of the scum who harm animals, but at least if you're going to beg for money at least treat your viewers and potential donators as adults. We know that cats and dogs can't talk, and we know that they look helplessly downtrodden in a certain light. Just give us the phone number and leave it to us.

Below is the latest RSPCA advert starring the voices of Fearne Cotton and Simon Cowell. I respect the celebrities for doing the advert, except for the poor quality of the advert. Two things, the first is that the advert mimics a talent show like that of X Factor or Pop Idol. To me this doesn’t treat the subject matter with respect but instead gives the impression of “which animal do you want to save?” Secondly, is it me or does Simon Cowell lack enthusiasm?



Somehow I don't think these charities would want more abused animals, just out of spite of the adverts. Let me point something else out. Cats, dogs and hamsters are not endangered species. Are they aware that humans themselves have a more serious agenda, like famine, war and child abuse? Perhaps they should be more sensitive to the political climate of the time.

But please, don’t let me be misunderstood, I’m not concerned with the charities themselves, I think they are doing an outstanding job; it’s just they need to review their style of advertising.