Hawaii is experiencing some of the most severe flooding in decades after a series of subtropical cyclones brought heavy, slow-moving storms to the islands. Torrential rains—reaching up to 30 inches in some areas—have submerged entire neighbourhoods, damaged hundreds of homes, and flooded farmlands, causing millions of dollars in losses. Forecasters warn that additional flash floods may hit in the coming days (Voiland 2026).

Most of us consider ourselves animal lovers. So why do we extend compassion to some animals while putting others on our plates without a second thought? A pig and a dog playing. Picture this: a golden retriever plays fetch in the park, tail wagging, eyes full of trust. Now picture a pig solving a puzzle, a skill they have been shown to develop faster than dogs. Both animals feel pain, experience joy, form social bonds, and display remarkable intelligence. Yet one sleeps at th