8 Awesome Ways to Support the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

  1. Adopt, don’t shop. Discourage the proliferation of unethical puppy mills and backyard breeders by avoiding pet stores that sell dogs, cats, and other purebred animals. Adoption also saves lives by freeing up space in shelters and providing forever homes to other fur friends.
  2. Speak out. Increase awareness of cruelty by speaking to friends, neighbors, and family members about the importance of adoption. Spread the word about local animal welfare laws or any other animal related topics that live close to your heart.
  3. Volunteer. Rescues and shelters depend on volunteers. Ideas include: photographing pets who are up for adoption, walking dogs, providing office support, cuddling kittens, and greeting potential new pet parents. You can also call your local shelter and ask how you can be of service. Remember, all talents are welcome.
  4. Make a donation. If time is a problem, consider making a monetary gift. Nonprofits like animal shelters operate entirely on the financial support of caring individuals (and your gift is tax-deductible).
  5. Report cruelty. If you witness an animal being abused or neglected (e.g., left tied or chained without water, abandoned by owners, malnourished, etc.), contact your local police precinct and file a report.
  6. Lobby for change. Many of the laws that regulate the humane treatment and care of animals are decided by cities or municipalities. Get to know your city council members and advocate for stricter anti-cruelty laws by attending council meetings and sharing your concerns.
  7. Raise compassionate kids. One of the simplest ways to prevent animal cruelty is by raising the next generation of compassionate animal lovers. Enlist the help of your own children or gather a group of local parents who are also interested in preventing cruelty to animals. Offer to supply school libraries with humane curriculum or volunteer to speak to classes about having empathy for our furry, finned, and scaled friends.
  8. Go orange. Show your support of the ASPCA’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month by participating in a campaign to end animal abuse.

These are only a few ways caring individuals like you can get involved and help prevent cruelty to animals everywhere. Please contact us for other suggestions or to share an idea of your own.

From all of us at Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital, we thank you for being an animal champion!