Eight Simple Things You Can Do to Help Animals

Many animal lovers would like to do more to help animals, but aren't sure where to start or feel like they just don't have the time. The good new is that there are many simple things you can do to help protect animals

Keep your cats indoors.
There are two good reasons to keep your cats inside. The first is for the health of your cats. A cat that isn't allowed to roam the neighborhood is less likely to pick up diseases such as feline leukemia and FIV. It also saves you from a heartbreaking loss if your cat becomes lost or gets hit by a car.

The second benefit of keeping your cats indoors is that they won't be able to prey on wildlife. Veterinarians and wildlife rehabilitators treat many animals each year who have sustained injuries from companion animals. Still more don't survive. Keeping your cats indoors can save the lives of the birds, squirrels, and other small animals who share your neighborhood.

Think before you eat.
The decisions you make when it comes to eating meat and other animal products can go a long way toward preventing the inhumane treatment of animals. Consider adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet. If you aren't ready to make this drastic of a change, there are still things you can do. Avoid purchasing animal products from companies known to use inhumane practices such as removing the beaks from chickens or using drugs to promote milk production in cows. When in doubt, look for the American Humane Association's free farmed certificate on the food you buy.

Buy cruelty-free products.
Use your purchasing power to speak for the animals. By boycotting cosmetics and household items distributed by companies who test their products on animals you can affect the bottom lines of these companies. This is speaking to them in a language you can understand.

By the same token, be sure to frequent stores and purchase products made by companies who are animal friendly. By giving them your support, you're sure to encourage them to keep humane policies in place.

Help get the word out.
Getting the word out about the problems faced by animals can be as easy as putting a bumper sticker on your car or a pin on your lapel. Also, talk to your children, friends, and family members about important issues. Some simple advice to a friend with a new pet about the importance of spaying and neutering can save many lives down the road, and help put an end to the serious pet overpopulation problem we're facing.

Buy a ticket to a ballgame instead of the circus.
Animals used in the entertainment industry spend a good portion of their lives chained or living in cramped cages. They are often subjected to harsh training practices, and most certainly would be happier living in their natural environment. When looking for an evening out, find something that doesn't rely on the exploitation of animals to bring you entertainment.

Write a letter.
We've all heard the phrase, "The pen is mightier than the sword." Put this concept to work on behalf of animals. If a company has practices or policies that are harmful to animals, write them a letter to let them know you don't approve, and that you won't buy their products until they make some changes. Write letters to state and federal legislators to let them know how important it is that they support legislation beneficial to animals. Remind them that their actions will affect your vote.

Adopt a pet from your local shelter, humane society, or rescue organization.
If you're considering adding a dog or cat to your family, think about adopting from a shelter rather than purchasing a pet. There are many wonderful animals just waiting for a home to call their own. By adopting an animal, you will be helping in the fight against pet overpopulation, as well as keeping your money out of the pockets of those responsible for puppy mills.

Let your actions be an example to others.
It may sound simple, but one of the best ways to help animals is to let your actions speak to the world. Treat all living creatures with respect. Take good care of your pets. Avoid entertainment venues that exploit animals. Support legislation that will benefit animals. All of these things set an example for others to follow. Your actions can create a ripple effect, making the world a better place for animals.