The Important Role You Play in Stopping Animal Abuse

The Important Role You Play in Stopping Animal Abuse

by Ulf Merkheimer

Hey you, yes, you! Do you know the signs to look for when it comes to animal abuse?! Do you do your part when it comes to protecting our furry four-legged friends? Unfortunately, animal abuse still exists in our world today but with education and team work, maybe, just maybe, we can make it a thing of the past.

There are many humane education programs available that teach people the importance of recognizing animal abuse and how to stop it. In 2008, the ASPCA partnered with a program called Do Something! Do Something is an on-line community aimed at teenagers. It is a place for teens to gather (via the internet) so that they may discuss ways to make the world a better place. Animal welfare is one of the "hot topics" that is discussed on a daily basis. It is one of the top concerns of teens today (thank goodness!).

Do Something's teen-friendly web content covering animal welfare is quite popular and a tremendous success at offering "humane education." Since inception, ten $500 grants have been awarded by the ASPCA to teens who have stepped up and implemented their own animal welfare projects. It's tremendously encouraging to me to see our children taking such an active role in important issues today.

If you're wondering what "humane education" is, the ASPCA and Do Something teach us how to care for animals both in our homes and in our communities. The premise fosters respect, empathy and kindness for all beings (on two feet, 4 feet or more), and teaches responsible stewardship for the environment and its inhabitants. The one overriding goal of humane education is to make our planet a more humane and kind place to live.

Changing the world requires help and contribution from people just like you. If making a difference and improving the world we'll hand down to our children appeals to you, you may be wondering how you can get started. It starts with little things that can ultimately make you a contributing member of the community looking out for animal welfare.

Know who to call if you witness or suspect animal cruelty or abuse. Many metropolitan areas have enforcement agents who have the authority and resources to act in animal cruelty cases. New York City, for example, relies on the ASPCA's animal cruelty officers. If you aren't sure who to call should you witness abuse, contact your local police non-emergency number for guidance.

Once you know who to call, know what circumstances warrant calling. Obviously, witnessing a dog being beaten represents a justifiable situation for calling, but dogs left chained outside without adequate food or water, for excessive durations or for hours during cold winter months also warrant a call for help. All you need do is youre your eyes open for issues of clear neglect or abuse.

Education starts at home! If you have children, talk to them about the importance of treating animals (all animals!) with kindness and respect. Teach them that animals are living creatures that have the ability to feel pain, joy and sadness. Educating children about the importance of humane treatment is VERY important, after all, they will take these valuable life lessons into adulthood!

Should you witness animal abuse, avoid getting involved directly. Call the authorities and let them deal with the situation. It is difficult to stand back while abuse is going on, but you expose yourself and your family to the risk of retaliation should you try to take matters into your own hands. Responsible agencies will act even if the report is made anonymously.

Fight for stronger animal cruelty laws! Jump on board and join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade! If society implements stronger cruelty laws and harsher penalties maybe, just maybe, people will take the humane treatment of animals more seriously. Animal abuse is no laughing matter; make sure your voice is heard! The best way to do this is by signing anti-cruelty petitions and writing letters to your local legislators asking for tougher laws!

A real difference can be made by ordinary people just like you. It costs little or nothing to be a part of something bigger. Be aware, educate yourself and your children, know what action to take and get involved in programs that can change the lives of animals for the better. They give us so much love and friendship and do so much to make the world a beautiful place to live. Don't you think they're worth the effort? - 20511

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Title: The Important Role You Play in Stopping Animal Abuse
Author: Ulf Merkheimer
Email: david.hobbs@verizon.net
Keywords: pet,pets,dog,dogs,obedience,training,pets,animals,home and family
Word Count: 744
Category: dog
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