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.

Recognize that there are resources available to help you recognize the signs of animal abuse and to help put a stop to it. In 2008, the ASPCA, for example, partnered with a program called Do Something! Aimed at educating teens, Do Something provides an online community where teens can gather and discuss ways in which they can help make the world a better place. One of the topics covered and discussed on a daily basis is animal welfare.

Do Something provides teen friendly resources and content about animal welfare. The program is quite popular and is a huge success! Since the beginning of the program, the ASPCA has awarded ten $500 grants to teens that have taken action and implemented their very own animal welfare projects. Protecting animals is not just a job for adults; it is a job for young people as well!

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.

Ultimately, making a difference requires action by people just like you. Does the idea of making the world a better place for animals appeal to you or your kids? Are you up to the challenge? Are you wondering what you can do to help? Every one of us can make a difference. If you’re wondering where to begin, consider some of the following ideas.

Knowing who to call if you witness or suspect animal abuse is perhaps the most fundamental step in making a difference. Take the time to find your local Humane Society number and keep it handy. More useful in a general sense is your local police non-emergency number.

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!

Call for help if you see a person physically abusing or striking an animal! Never approach an abuser, instead, call one of your local agencies and file a report. Many, if not all agencies, will allow you to file an anonymous report. Though it is important to help animals that are being physically abused, you should NEVER put yourself in harm’s way.

Get involved in programs and activities geared towards the creation of stronger penalties. While laws may stop the abuse after it has begun, harsh penalties act as deterrents to prevent abuse in the first place. As an advocate for animal welfare, you can do your part by joining such movements as the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade and writing to your local legislators and representatives. If you are a real go-getter, start your own community action efforts and get some petitions under the noses of those who can make a difference.

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?

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