Author: Keren Dinkin
Animals are a common topic on the internet and social media, however, a topic that’s less talked about is animal abuse. To make more people aware of the issue and encourage action against it, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has designated April as Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month.
During Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month, there is an increased focus on the issues of animal abuse, neglect, and cruelty. If you care about animal welfare and want to make a difference, here’s how you can participate:
Open a Fundraising Campaign
On your birthday or any other important day, you can create a fundraising page on the ASPCA website and share it with your friends and family. You can also organize a marathon with Team ASPCA to commemorate a beloved pet’s memory. The money raised will be used to make a positive difference for animals around the country
Celebrate Dog Fighting Awareness
Dogfighting is a severe form of animal abuse where dogs are raised in isolation, chained in tiny confined spaces, and often administered with steroids. Although it’s illegal everywhere, this sport is still conducted illicitly in some places.
Tuesday, April 8, is National Dog Fighting Awareness Day. Animal lovers are encouraged to raise their voices against this brutal sport and carry forward the conversation surrounding dogfighting so that it is completely banned.
Adopt, Don’t Shop
If you or someone you know is considering getting a four-legged friend, make adoption your first option. By staying away from pet shops, you help curb the growth of backyard breeders and puppy mills that breed pets in unsanitary, overcrowded conditions.
Adoption also frees up space in foster homes and helps save more animal lives by giving homes to other animals. ASPCA has a nationwide database of dogs and cats that are looking for good homes.
Associate Yourself With Organizations Who Advocate for Change
One of the best ways to make a difference is by associating yourself with organizations and companies that strongly advocate against animal cruelty like Natural Farms.
At Natural Farm we not only manufactures treats and supplements made from 100% natural ingredients but we also make sure that a major portion of our capital is donated to non profit organizations with dedicated programs that support animal welfare, the environment, and more. Hence, every time you purchase with us, you’re also helping safeguard an animal’s wellbeing.
Go Orange
One of the best ways to raise awareness about Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month is by showing your support online. You can use social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to post photos of you and your pet. Make sure to tag ASPCA in your posts and let your friends know the reason behind your post.
In addition, you can also use social media to spread information about people and organizations that are striving to help animals in need.
Report Neglect or Cruelty
Instead of turning a blind eye to animal abuse and cruelty, make your position against it known. This doesn’t mean that you should put yourself at physical risk by trying to stop the abuse yourself but you can seek a professional’s help or call the police.
Although most reported cases of abuse involve dogs, abuse is a critical issue that affects many animals such as racehorses, circus animals, livestock, and animals used in laboratories.
One of the first steps in bringing more attention to the cause is recognizing what animal abuse looks like. Here are some signs to determine if an animal is being abused:
- Limping
- Dogs chained in their yard and left alone without food or water
- Wounds and tick or flea infestations
- Signs of starvation and malnutrition like a thin body
- An owner physically harming an animal whether it’s kicking or striking them
- Missing patches of hair on the body
- Dogs who are left outside in extreme weather without shelter
- Animals who cower in fright or are aggressive towards other dogs and their owners
- Owners who don’t provide veterinary care to their pets even in extreme situations
Lobby For Change
Attend your city or municipal council meetings and get in touch with your city council members. Share your concerns and advocate for stricter anti-cruelty laws.
You can also speak up against the use of animals in the entertainment industry like circuses, bullfighting, and dogfighting through social media and other means.
Volunteer or Work at Your Local Animal Shelter
Rescue shelters and foster homes depend on volunteers to take care of pets, however, they are often short-staffed. You can help them out by donating money or your time to support them. Here are some ways you can invest your time:
- Walking dogs
- Offering office support
- Photographing pets that are up for adoption
- Greeting potential new pet parents
- Donating pet supplies like toys and blankets
Conclusion
How we act towards animals that may not have the ability to defend themselves says a lot about who we are as people. Taking a stand against animal abuse and cruelty is an act of compassion and kindness.
This April, take action. Protect animals against inhumane activities. Spread awareness, lobby for change, encourage adoption, and support organizations that are advocating for better treatment of animals.
Like you, Natural Farms believes that animals shouldn’t be abused or be left to live in brutal conditions. As a manufacturer of natural and high-quality treats and supplements, we’ve partnered with several non-profit organizations and financially support initiatives that improve the lives of pets, people, and the planet.
Together, let’s make a difference this Animal Cruelty Prevention Month.
