Animals are affected by vegetarianism as well as the environment and the people who partake in vegetarianism.

Vegetarianism

Yes; there is much heated debate as to what constitutes vegetarianism and how healthy it is.

Vegetarianism is not a part of the Buddhist religion, but many Buddhists do choose this route out of compassion. Buddhism teaches to refrain from killing, but does not specify the conditions if the animal is already dead. It is mostly a matter of personal preference.

Bodhipaksa has written:

'Living as a river' -- subject(s): Impermanence (Buddhism), Meditation, Buddhism

'Vegetarianism' -- subject(s): Buddhism, Budismo, Health aspects, Health aspects of Vegetarianism, Religious aspects, Religious aspects of Vegetarianism, Vegetarianism, Vegetarianismo