On Friday, the Pope again expressed concern about the sharp decline in the birth rate and the “demographic winter” in Europe. “Instead of children, people prefer dogs and cats. This is a planned affection, an affection without problems,” said the Pope.
At a meeting with women religious, the Pope also called for support for families. The “demographic winter” is not only a human problem, but also a problem for the states.
The animal protection organization ENPA reacted critically to the Pope’s words. There is no “competition” between children and pets. The organization referred to a statistic study, according to which mainly couples with children have pets. This is not the first time Francis has played animals against children, a press release said.
“The Pope persists in his error. Because there are so many families who turn to our homes and volunteers to adopt an animal, and they often have children. The love for animals is an absolute value in itself. It has nothing to do with having children or not,” said Carla Rocchi, President of ENPA. Caring for an animal requires a willingness to give love, time and dedication.
Source: Nachrichten
