Full Idea
Too much concern for individual animals may in fact harm the species, by promoting diseased or degenerate members, or preventing population control.
Gist of Idea
Concern for one animal may harm the species, if the individual is part of a bigger problem
Source
Roger Scruton (Animal Rights and Wrongs [1996], p.87)
Book Reference
Scruton,Roger: 'Animal Rights and Wrongs' [Demos 1996], p.87
A Reaction
Okay till we reach human beings, where this principle won't go away, even if further principles about personhood, rationality and deep sympathy enter the picture. We can't be utilitarian about animals, and something else about humans.