Pets
Recognizing And Preventing Animal Cruelty
By
Aug 11, 2005, 00:46

(NAPSI)-We use kicking a dog as an example of the worst of human behavior-and with good reason. Animal cruelty harms the most defenseless creatures in our world.

Examples of animal cruelty include overt abuse, dog fighting and cock fighting, neglect and denying pets necessities of care such as food, water or shelter. Animal welfare organizations work daily to educate people about how they can care for their pets and how they can prevent animal cruelty.

Here are some things you can do:

• Be aware. Without phone calls and reports from concerned citizens, humane organizations wouldn't know about most instances of animal abuse.

• Learn to recognize animal cruelty. Signs include missing patches of hair, wounds on the body, extreme thinness or emaciation, limping and other signs of injury. Animals left alone without food or water, animals that show signs of injury and are not taken to a veterinarian and animals that cower in fear or act aggressively when their owners approach may also be abuse victims.

• Know whom to call to report animal cruelty. The ASPCA Web site indicates whether to contact animal control or another municipal agency; in any case, the police department can direct you to the proper authorities.

• Provide as much information as you can. Write down the type of cruelty you witnessed, who was involved, the date and time of the incident and where it took place.

• Set a good example. If you have pets, be sure to always show them the respect, love and care they deserve-beyond just giving them adequate food, water and shelter. If you think your animal is sick, bring him or her to a veterinarian. Be responsible and have your pet spayed or neutered.

• Talk to your kids about treating animals with kindness and respect. One of the most powerful tools for preventing cruelty to animals is education. It's important to plant the seeds of kindness in children early and nurture their development as the child grows.

For more information on how to prevent animal cruelty or to find or support a shelter, go to www.aspca.org.

Report people who strike or otherwise physically abuse their pets.

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