How to Get Involved During Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month

April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month and there has never been a greater need to get involved. While it's impossible to determine how many animals are abused, tortured, neglected or starved, it is estimated over 300,000 animals die from abuse each year in the U.S.

A prime example of why prevention of animal cruelty awareness is needed is the story of Patrick. On March 16, 2011, this one-year old male Pit Bull was found wrapped inside a garbage bag by maintenance workers at Garden Spires apartments in Newark.

According to news reports, "The dog was found so brutalized his bones protruded from his fur and he had no body temperature. Animal care workers with the Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park called it one of the worst cases of cruelty they've ever seen."

Patrick's story was brought to my attention via Facebook. The first time I saw his photo I thought it was a caricature drawing. His large eyes jumped off the page and he was dressed in a thick, white sweater. When I realized this was a living, breathing dog I stopped in my tracks. How anyone could abuse a dog to the level Patrick endured is beyond me.

Thanks to the quick acting maintenance workers, Patrick was rescued by NJ SPCA and rushed to Garden State Veterinary Specialists in Tinton Falls, NJ where he received emergency medical treatment. He remains in their care and likely to be for several months.

Due to the compassion and care of doctors and staff, the severely abused Pit Bull survived through the night. He was knighted with the name of Patrick the morning of March 17th. Since then, Patrick has become an Internet sensation. People from around the globe have sent monetary donations, dog toys, and sweaters, along with hundreds of 'Get Well' cards.

His owner was arrested and charged with four counts of animal abuse, including torture. Although the 27 year old female owner pleaded not guilty, the prosecutor has assigned two agents normally responsible for homicides to investigate Patrick's case.

Patrick's story has united people from around the globe. Soon after the Facebook page was created to share his story, Patrick's friends list swelled to an astonishing 70,000+ fans. Many of those touched by Patrick's story are now becoming animal rights activists.

Patrick is in excellent hands and hopefully he will be able to live the rest of his days in happiness. But, those not as fortunate need advocates to be their voice. There are plenty of ways to get involved and make a difference. Volunteering doesn't cost a dime and nearly every U.S. community has dire need for helpers.

Volunteers can find a place that needs their special talent. If you have good people skills, consider volunteering at local shelters helping to process abandoned animals or adopt pets to responsible owners. If you enjoy socializing, consider volunteering for special events that raise awareness and funds for animal non-profits such as the Humane Society or rescue groups. If you have a love of animals, consider volunteering as a dog walker or foster parent.

Rescues and animal shelters need help with many duties including newsletter publication; dropping off flyers and newsletters at local businesses; fundraising events; cleaning cages; animal feeding, watering, and bathing; exercising dogs; transporting animals for medical care; and pet therapy groups that involve taking animals to nursing homes and hospitals.

Good sources for locating animal-related volunteer opportunities include the American Humane Society and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Both organizations provide pamphlets about how to spot animal cruelty; how to report abuse or neglect; and ways to make a difference within your community.

If animal rights are something you're concerned about, consider taking action to make a difference during Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month. Joining forces with others can help prevent another animal from having to endure what happened to Patrick.

Sources:
The Patrick Miracle on Facebook
American Humane Association
ASPCA.org
FOX News: New Jersey Woman Charged with Torture in Case of Brutalized Pit Bull