Lebanon is one of a few countries not signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), making it an easy transit point for wildlife smugglers, and it has few domestic animal-protection laws.

CNN: Abused animals in Lebanon face losing safe haven

"If we only rely on domestic resources to develop the animal-husbandry industry, China's grain production will face challenges, and there will be more serious environmental pollution problems, " Mr. Li said.

WSJ: Smithfield Deal Signals China's Need for Meat, Dairy, Other Food Buys

Owners of free-ranging domestic cats likely have had to dispose of a dead animal that their pets proudly returned home.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Run by German carrier Lufthansa, animals range from domestic pets to more exotic specimens destined for zoos and animal reserves, explains Axel Heitman, director of the Animal Lounge.

CNN: All creatures great and small at Frankfurt's Animal Lounge

What does it say about us when our local animal shelter can raise twice as much funds as the domestic violence service provider?

FORBES: Domestic Violence: The Awareness We Overlook

Many animal humane groups and public officials are outraged at the idea of resuming domestic slaughter.

NPR: Okla. Governor Signs Horse Slaughter Legislation

An animal rights activist said Knut should be killed rather than treated like a domestic pet - a suggestion that triggered a nationwide surge of affection for the cub.

BBC: Polar bear cub Knut was defiant in the face of death threats