Tuesday, April 3, 2012

April is National Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month, the perfect time to remember how lucky we are to have furry friends in our lives – and to learn how to keep them safe. I have listed some helpful tips on how to look for signs of animal cruelty, how to report it, and how to teach children to have empathy for animals – to ensure a better future for humans and animals alike!

Animal Abuse Awareness Earrings by Pawsitively Purrfect, $15
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Know the Signs of Animal Cruelty:
Animal cruelty can come in many different forms, and they aren’t always physical. Here are some signs to watch out for:
• Wounded animals, either with open wounds or scarring. Limping or other difficulties moving around can also be indicative of abuse.
• Animals who are left outside with no shelter from the elements and/or are chained for extensive periods of time.
• Emaciated animals. An emaciated animal has visible bone protrusions, usually around their ribcage or along their spine.
• Hair loss, skin lesions or matted fur.
• Animals who are forced to live in their own excrement.
• Animals who are crated in a space that is too small to move in comfortably or are kept in a crate for extensive periods of time.

I Save Lives Handstamped Necklace by Pawsitively Purrfect, $25
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Learn How to Report Animal Cruelty:
If you witness or suspect animal cruelty, gather as much information as you can, and report it to your local animal control agency. You can search for the proper authorities in your area here.

Live Love Rescue Handstamped Keychain by Pawsitively Purrfect, $15
To purchase, click here

Teach Your Children to Be Kind to Animals:
Children who learn to be gentle with animals are more likely to become caring and responsible adults. Here are a few easy ways to teach your children empathy for our furry friends:

• Involve them in pet care responsibilities. Let them help walk the family dog, or feed the family cat.
• Put a bird feeder in your back yard!
• Take your child to your local animal shelter. At the Seattle Humane Society, you and your children can brush, pet, and play with our adoptable cats.
• Volunteer to provide temporary foster care to a pet in need.

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