In recent years, social media have also transformed the more niche sectors into viral phenomena. An emblematic example is the case of the Dadson family, whose breeding of exposure pigs He has reached millions of people thanks to the videos published on platforms such as Tiktok and Instagram.
Karis Dadson14 years old, has become the face of this trend, capturing attention with its concentrated expression while guides his pigs in competitions. With its unmistakable glance, Karis moves precisely in the ring, controlling the animal with measured touches and well -refined strategies.
Each of his gesture is designed to highlight The qualities of the pigfrom posture to musculature. But if on the surface everything appears as a refined art, a deeper reflection leads to questioning the nature of this practice and the treatment reserved for the animals involved. Behind the apparent enthusiasm for these shows we cannot pretend anything about the ethical issues that arise.
A tradition or a form of exploitation?
The cattle competitions They have long been considered an integral part of American agricultural culture. Supporters say that they teach young discipline, responsibility and the value of hard work. But it is impossible to ignore the most controversial aspect: the animal treatment.
Exhibition pigs are raised specifically for these events, subjected to rigorous food regimes and an intense training to obtain the desired behavior in the ring. This raises questions about their quality of life: up to what extent these animals are treated as sentient beings rather than as simple tools for competitive success?
Furthermore, there is the risk that the growing spectacularization of competitions can lead to practices increasingly invasive to improve animal performance. Some breeders may be tempted to force the growth of pigs with unnatural diets or even resorting to questionable techniques to perfect their aesthetic and their bearing.
The impact of virality on social media
The fact that millions of people, many of whom are unrelated to the agricultural world, are discovering these competitions through viral videos asks another question: one is promoting one Idealized and misleading vision of the breeding? The narrative that emerges from social media often focuses on spectacular side of the competition, without deepening the fate of these animals once their competitive career is over.
In addition, the phenomenon of viral videos inevitably led to a marketing of practice. More than an educational activity, exposure cattle risks becoming a simple one marketing strategy To obtain fame and profits on social networks, moving away from the original pedagogical justification.
In light of these reflections, it is essential to ask whether the current system should be reviewed. AND really necessary That animals are trained and shown in competitions to educate young people? Or could we find more ethical methods to teach the values of agriculture without putting animal welfare at risk?
The charm of viral videos must not make us forget that there is any content behind a more complex reality. If the growing attention on these shows can serve to stimulate a wider debate on the treatment of animals, then perhaps, paradoxically, virality could have a positive impact.
@Dadsonforms Karis Defiately Knows How To Hustle At Livestock Show and The Showpigs Are Divas! #Showpigs #hustle #Livestockshow
♬ Original sound – Jacobdior
