By Leah Gitau
Animals are a gift of nature to us. It would be difficult to imagine life without animals. There are various ways in which animals serve us, be it directly or indirectly. Such include;
- Animals are of great economic importance. They contribute greatly to the growth and sustaining of an economy in terms of provision of meat, milk which are very vital in maintaining an economy. Industries like the leather, fabric and furniture are sustained by the various animals we rear.
- Some animals are used for medicinal purposes. For instance, pigs’ intestines are used to make anti coagulants. Pigs’ pancreatic cells are used to make insulin which is later used by diabetic individuals.
- Animals as companions- various animals are kept as pets and they act as companions to those particular people. They have become objects of affection and sometimes worship.
- Animals as workers- animals are seen as an aid to human work, from transportation to hunting to protection. For example, oxen are used to plough, sometimes dogs are used in hunting and security.
