Often, such laws can be found online by searching a central government system. If you cannot find any such laws or regulations, try calling a local legal hotline for information on where to find animal-related policies.
Collars that are tight enough to cause wounds Ongoing injury or illness Conditions such as fleas, ticks, hair loss, or scaly skin that is not actively being treated Impeded mobility Inadequate shelter or being tied up outdoors even in inclement weather Kept in unclean area littered with feces, garbage, or potentially harmful objects Animal is housed in a kennel too small for them to stand or turn
Call your shelter and let them know, “I’m trying to educate myself about preventing animal cruelty. What kind of rescue cases do you work with here and how should I report an abused animal if I encounter one?”
Record what you observe. Make a note of what actions or symptoms you believe are part of the abuse. If possible, offer to include photo or video in your report. Be prepared to testify after you call in an abuse investigation.
If the animal is in a truly dangerous situation, such as locked in a car or having an act of violence performed against them, call 911 right away and stay nearby so that you can inform them of the dog’s condition. An officer will be dispatched as soon as possible. If the animal still needs help but is not in an immediately threatening situation, such as being chained up outside or with a skin condition that is not being treated, report the matter to animal control as soon as possible.
Church groups Offices or teams of coworkers School groups Social clubs Campus organizations Groups of concerned private citizens such as a neighborhood watch organization
Call the organization directly and let them know, “I’m interested in volunteering with you. How can I get more information about getting started?” Be prepared to provide them with your availability when you call. Be flexible regarding what you are willing to do. Volunteers will do everything from playing with the animals to cleaning up kennels and play yards. This is all necessary work to keep the animals happy and healthy. Try to keep a consistent volunteer schedule. You don’t have to work too many hours, but show up for the ones you say you will work. This is necessary for the shelter to function smoothly.
Teach children by example. Use kind tones and compassionate words toward your pets and other animals, rather than telling them to “shut up,” or saying other things a child would perceive as hurtful. Practice non-violence with small animals from insects to rodents when they find their way into the home. Relocate them without killing or seriously hurting them. Bring your child with you for volunteer shifts at local shelters. Include books and movies in your child’s entertainment that show kindness and positivity toward animals.
You can find a number of petitions as well as sample letters and phone scripts online to help you organize your thoughts and make a powerful statement.
Keep the group you bring small. This keeps meetings more directed and on-track. Appoint a single person to act as spokesperson for the group. [9] X Research source Prepare talking points in advance. Have any facts or statistics you would like to quote written down and make sure you have a central message such as, “There is not proper legislation in this community to protect animals. ” Remember, you will only have about 15 minutes to talk. If you are meeting about a specific measure, have your statement about why you support or oppose it ready, citing text from the measure itself to help prove your points. Dress professionally and be punctual.
Join local groups to get information that is tailored to your state or local area. Keep your contact information up to date so that the organization is able to easily get in touch with you.
Remember, you do not have to vote for every issue on a ballot. If an election involves an animal welfare measure as well as other measures you don’t want to vote on, don’t skip voting, Instead, go and vote specifically for the measure that do concern you. Check every election cycle to make sure your voter registration is up to date.
