Thursday, April 18, 2013

National Prevention of Cruelty of Animals Month

Help protect abused and neglected pets!

This month the ASPCA embarked on their National Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. There are immeasurable amounts of  blameless pets abused or neglected by their owners annually. This month is a perfect opportunity to increase awareness and assist abused animals. There are numerous incomplex things you can do to help eliminate animal cruelty in your community. Knowing who to report to is key. Each town does things differently; some depend on the police department to follow up on animal cruelty cases and some depend on the local animal control agency. If you suspect a case of animal cruelty, make sure to call and offer as many details about the incident as possible including type of cruelty, who was involved, dates, times, and where it took place. Take care to watch pets in your neighborhood. If you acquaint yourself with the pets that live near you, you’ll notice if an animal has lost a lot of weight or changed their demeanor. Here are some additional signs and symptoms of animal abuse:

• Tick or flea infestation

 • Wounds on the body

•Patches of missing fur

• Extremely thin

• Limping

• Repeatedly left alone without food or water

• Left outdoors in extreme weather

• Animals who cower in fear or act aggressively when owners approach

• Dogs who need medical attention and aren’t taken to the vet

• Pets housed with too many other animals

• Overgrown nails, matted fur, filthy

• Weakness, drowsiness, confusion

If you notice any animals showing any of these signs, or if you see any physical abuse such as hitting or kicking firsthand, be sure to call the authorities immediately. If you don’t want to give your name, you can always call anonymously. Animals rely on their owners to supply them with food, water, shelter, and kindness. Pets are innocent creatures and need you to step in if  they are suffering.

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