How to Contribute to the Prevention of Animal Cruelty

As an animal lover, the last thing you’d think about is harming your feathery, furry, or scaly friend. But for hundreds of thousands of animals across the country and beyond, this is a reality they know all too well. April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals month, and we’d like to shed light on some of the ways you can help prevent animal cruelty in your community.

What is animal cruelty?

While animal cruelty is a broad term many of us use to associate harm made against animals, many countries define their own laws about what animal cruelty is considered to be. In Canada, both federal and provincial laws define animal cruelty. For example, this is how it is defined In British Columbia:An animal is in distress, according to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCA Act), if it is:

(a) Deprived of adequate food, water, shelter, ventilation, light, space, exercise, care or veterinary treatment,(a.1) Kept in conditions that are unsanitary,

(a.2) Not protected from excessive heat or cold,

(b) Injured, sick, in pain or suffering, or

As you can see, animal cruelty covers a wide range of needs that contribute to an animal’s well-being.

What can you do to prevent animal cruelty?

There are many ways you can help prevent cruelty to animals. Here are a few for your consideration:

Adopt

Did you know that in 2018, Canadian shelters took in more than 81,000 cats and just less than 30,000 dogs? While that’s a devastatingly high number, the good news is that many of these animals (62% of cats and 47% of dogs) were adopted into loving homes. By choosing adoption, you are giving many of these animals a second chance. On the contrary, many animals, such as dogs, that come from breeders and puppy mills are subject to harsh living conditions including filthy, cramped housing and minimal human contact.

Teach children to respect animals

Just like how we teach our children manners, it’s important to teach them to respect animals. Since children are so impressionable, ensure you are setting a good example when interacting with animals, whether up close or from afar.

Report

If you see an animal being abused, whether it’s a house pet or wildlife, file a report with your local authorities. It’s our responsibility to ensure that all animals are treated with compassion, love and respect. Of course, ensure your safety and never put yourself in danger if you choose to report someone abusing an animal.

Source: animaltravel.com