Be Kind to Animals Week
May 2-8, 2010
The American Humane Association’s BE KIND TO ANIMALS WEEK is the oldest celebrated week in the nation! Recognized officially by Congress in 1915, this special week continues to remind us of the many things animals do to enhance our lives. Join with the Lawrence Humane Society as we commemorate the role animals play in our lives, promote ways to continue to treat them humanely, and encourage others, especially children, to do the same.
During the special week, and throughout the year, the staff at the Lawrence Humane Society is eager to talk to your school or group about how we can all work together to help create a better world for animals. Please e-mail or give us a call at 785-843-6835.
Although Be Kind to Animals Week is celebrated only once a year, we must all make an effort to be kind to animals every day. Here are some suggestions from the American Humane Association:
SPEAK OUT FOR THE ANIMALS. Become informed about policies and legislation that can impact the animals in your community and throughout the country. Advocacy for animals can make a huge difference in their safety and well-being.
REPORT ANIMAL ABUSE. Animal cruelty and abuse is not only tragic for animals, but is also an indicator that other forms of abuse such as domestic violence could be happening. If you see something that looks suspicious—a dog chained in your neighbor’s yard that looks underfed, a child putting a cat in a box and kicking it around the yard—don’t hesitate to let someone know. Go to Cruelty & Neglect Investigations to learn how to spot and report animal cruelty.
APPRECIATE WILDLIFE. Animals deserve to be treated humanly—both family pets and animals in the wild. Create an inviting space in your yard and garden for butterflies, hummingbirds, and other creatures. If wildlife comes too close to home, look for ways to coexist with animals or to protect your property humanely.
ADOPT A PET FROM A SHELTER OR RESCUE. Every year an estimated 3.7 million animals must be euthanized at our nation’s shelters because they could not be adopted into loving homes. Help animals find a second chance at happiness by adopting your next pet from your local shelter or rescue group. American Humane has tips to find the animal companion that’s right for you and develop a bond that will last a lifetime.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR PET. Pets are like children who never grow up. They need you to help them stay healthy and safe throughout their lives. Keep your animal’s vaccinations up to date. Make sure he’s wearing proper identification. Take your pet to the veterinarian regularly. Know what it takes to be a responsible pet owner. And remember, you can never give your pet too much love.
Learn more about Be Kind to Animals Week from the American Humane Association and register to receive Action Alerts so you can speak out for animals with just the click of a mouse. Go to http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/special-events/be-kind-to-animals-week/
Please e-mail us or call the shelter at 785-843-6835 if you have questions.