Hugs for Animals

Did you know that April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month? Not just for dogs or cats, but for all animals. Big or small. Short or tall. Wild or tame. Feathered or furry or scaly. April is the month to help make sure that all animals are safe and surrounded by love. So give a friendly pat, a hug, or extra treats to an animal you know every day this month. While you shouldn’t really give a pat or hug to a wild animal, you can make sure they have food and shelter by putting up a feeder or home for them. Every little thing you can do will help make an animal’s life better.

To help prevent cruelty to animals you can follow the ASPCA’s top 10 ways to prevent animal cruelty
1. Be aware. Get to know and look out for the animals in your neighborhood.
2. Learn to recognize animal cruelty.
3. Know who to call to report animal cruelty
4. Provide as much as information as possible when reporting animal cruelty.
5. Call or write your local law enforcement department and let them know that investigating animal cruelty should be a priority.
6. Know your state's animal cruelty laws.
7. Fight for the passage of strong anti-cruelty laws on federal, state and local levels by joining the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade.
8. Set a good example for others.
9. Talk to your kids about how to treat animals with kindness and respect.
10. Support your local shelter or animal rescue organization.

Even I am taking a pledge to be nicer to Max and Jacks (my neighbor’s cats and my archenemies) this month. Well, at least I will try to be nicer. And don't forget to hug an animal you know today.

I’ll be barking to you later!