TAKE ACTION IN PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS MONTH

WED, 22 APR 2015 BY LINDA ROSADO

While pets make for great, loyal companions, not everyone takes proper care of his or her animals. Whether for personal gain or as thoughtless cruelty, some pet owners and individuals mistreat and abuse their pets. To raise awareness and work to prevent this type of behavior, every April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. The ASPCA, or American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, leads the cause and is a resource and not-for-profit organization that works to instill animal-friendly legislation as well as proper pet care technique.

This April, you can show your love of animals and support in a number of different ways, such as:

DONATING TO AN ANIMAL WELFARE ORGANIZATION

As noted above, the ASPCA is a great organization to assist, but others also exist to combat animal torture. The Human Society of the United States, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and The Jane Goodall Institute can all use your help and monetary support to further fund their efforts. A monthly, yearly or even one-time donation means a world of help for animals everywhere.

VISITING YOUR LOCAL PET SHELTER

April 30 is also National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day. Avoiding pet stores that may use compromising methods of obtaining puppies and going to pet shelters is a great way to show your support. Even if you don’t intend to adopt, volunteering your time to walk dogs and pick up dog waste, play with cats or make feeds at a pet shelter will help you keep animals active and healthy.

BEING MINDFUL OF PRODUCTS YOU USE

One area that is sometimes overlooked is bought products. In times of yesteryear, cosmetics companies easily got away with testing on animals, but not any more. Legislation has cracked down, but it’s still important to not overlook packaging labels. Keeping an eye out on personal care, cosmetics and household products that do not test on animals is significant to support those brands. PETA offers a handy search function for you to see if your products are up to par.

REPORTING ANIMAL ABUSE AND SIGNING PETITIONS

Last, and certainly not least, it’s critical to report animal cruelty. If you see it in your surroundings, you can dial 911 or contact the appropriate authorities in your area. The ASPCA has a page for animal cruelty laws in your state available for reference. You can also advocate for animals rights by signing petitions or sending letters to elected officials.

Spreading awareness and doing your part for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month can bring happiness to many animals and organizations fighting for fair treatment of animals.