A sample case on animal rights studies: “Red Star” mercy among arms

Throughout history, war has been one of the major ways humans have resolved their disputes, and humans have often used animals during times of war. The failure to treat and deliver adequate care to animals wounded during the South African War was drawn attention of societies on the protection of animals against cruelty and led to the intensification of efforts to establish an association, with a status similar to that of the “Red Cross,” which would provide healthcare services and aid to animals on the battlefield. After protracted correspondence and made efforts, the Red Star (Etoile Rouge), The International Alliance of Societies to Aid Animals on the Battlefield was officially established on February 22, 1915. A red pentagram on a white background was chosen as the insignia, and the organization adopted the motto, Mercy among Arms. In this study, retrospective method was used in order to investigate the historical development of the practice all use of “Red Cross” protection for wounded animals, based on a document retrieved from the personal archive of the Veterinarian, Emin Çölaşan. As a result, it can be argued that "The International Alliance of Societies to Aid Animals on the Battlefield" has not been able to carry out intended activities due to various problems. However, it can be said that this initiative was provide an international basis for the activities of local animal protection associations.