National Animal Advocacy Day is coming up on the 30th. This is an issue that we sincerely care about. Our animal partners are equally as emotional and caring as we are, and they greatly enrich and complete our lives. However, they cannot control their own futures; we must do it for them. Continue reading as a Hiram, GA vet discusses this crucial subject.

What Are The Main Underlying Causes Of Animal Welfare Issues?

Unfortunately, simple negligence and cruelty are not new. That’s probably the biggest root cause. There are, however, numerous other facets to this. Problems that might affect animals’ health, happiness, safety, and well-being cannot be attributed to a single cause. Some examples include the use of animals in medical studies, a lack of veterinary care/proper care in domestic animals, the exotic animal black market trade, and factory farming, to name a few.

Another important one is the usage of animals for entertainment. Disasters, as well as conflict and poverty, can also be factors to consider. These disasters affect both humans and animals.

Elements like habitat loss and climate change also play a role. Animal advocacy applies to all animals, including wild ones. Habitat loss is a major issue for wildlife. The statistics on this are a bit grim.

• Approximately 94% of temperate forests have been affected by cultivation and logging.
• Up to 98% of old-growth forests have been gone.
• Only 3% of America’s prairies and grasslands remain in their natural state.
• More than half of America’s wetlands have been lost. In Europe, the figure is significantly higher: estimates range from 60 to 70 percent.
• More than half of the wetlands in the United States have been lost in the previous 200 years. It’s considerably worse overseas: sixty percent to seventy percent of European wetlands have disappeared.

How Can I Become An Animal Advocate?

You don’t have to spend a lot of time or money on advocacy to make a difference. This is one area where every voice counts, and tiny steps can lead to significant progress. 

There are little things you can do to help, like planting native plants, joining local conservation groups, and cutting back on dangerous chemical use. 

Here’s an easy example: Got a yard? Join the no-mow May campaign and allow birds and bees a chance to eat the dandelions before you cut them down.

The best place to begin? It may very well be with your own pets. This can be as simple as conducting some research. It’s always a good idea to learn more about your animal companion’s needs, body language, and what makes them happy. Your vet is also an excellent resource for this!

For many animals, particularly dogs and cats, simply taking the effort to get your pet fixed can make a tremendous difference. It may seem sweet and pleasant to let Fluffy or Fido have a litter or two, but those gorgeous pups and kittens end up contributing to the problem of animal overpopulation.

It’s also crucial to make sure your pet has a microchip, is fixed, and has the appropriate identification tags on. This is a fairly simple way to establish a safety net for your pet if they become lost.

Shop responsibly. Are you searching for a new animal companion? The motto Adopt, Don’t Shop is a good rule of thumb to follow. If you opt to go through a retailer or breeder, be sure it is reputable.

You can also contribute by sponsoring animal rescues and, at the grassroots level, by advocating for animal protection laws and regulations. Your Hiram, GA vet can be a great resource for this. 

Teaching Your Children About Animal Welfare

Do you have any small ones? This is an excellent opportunity to discuss the significance of supporting animal welfare. Here are a few methods to get the kids on board.

Support Animal Shelters And Rescues: There are numerous groups working tirelessly to help as many animals as possible. You can choose something close, but if you have a particular preference for a breed or species, you can check for rescues that specialize in that area. You’ll probably find some fantastic ones!

Education: Go to a bookstore, thrift store, or even the library and get a couple of good animal-related books. Many children are fascinated by and compassionate toward our furry pals. You may also watch a kid-friendly documentary and discuss it.

Crafting for Shelter Pets: Check with shelters or aid groups in your area to see what they need. Numerous cute toys, beds, and furniture pieces make excellent DIY projects. Kids might enjoy doing these as excellent rainy-day projects as well! Look online for particular suggestions and directions. There are many excellent options to choose from!

There are several things you can do:

• Virtually adopt or support a wild or rescued animal. You can do this online. You may be able to receive updates on your new friend’s status and location.
• Hold a yard sale or bake sale, with earnings benefiting a local animal welfare charity.
• Organize a pet supply drive for a local shelter.
• Participate in local children’s programs, such as 4-H.
• Set up bird feeders and native plants to attract pollinators and other wildlife.

Children may also be able to get involved with taking care of the family pet. While you’ll of course want to supervise this, kids can help with things like feeding and brushing your furry friend. Your local Hiram, GA veterinarian may be able to recommend local rescues and shelters to help.

What is the Animal Welfare Act?

The Animal Welfare Act, enacted in 1966, is the only federal legislation in the United States that governs how animals are handled in research, transportation, display, and by dealers. It has been corrected several times, yet there are still numerous flaws.  

How Can I Follow Animal Advocacy Legislation?

The Animal Welfare Institute is an excellent resource for this. The website can be accessed here. It covers a wide range of themes, including horse-drawn carts and shark finning. The ASPCA is also an excellent resource.

Have Any Recent Improvements Been Made In Animal Welfare?

At least in this aspect, 2024 has gotten off to a good start. Several new legislation on the books are headed in the right direction.

Here are some instances:

• In California, new regulations demand the use of non-animal tests for some items, including pesticides, food additives, and chemicals.
• Michigan is the 16th state to approve legislation requiring that any dog or cat used in research be placed for adoption after the study has concluded.
• New York pet businesses will stop selling dogs, cats, and rabbits, putting a dent in the puppy mill industry.
• Pennsylvania pet retailers are now required to display breeder information as well as puppy health paperwork.
• The USDA issued Organic Livestock And Poultry Standards, which state that animals must be treated in accordance with established welfare standards.

Book An Appointment With Your Hiram, GA Veterinarian

Is it time for your own pet to have an examination? Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us at your Hiram, GA  pet hospital today! We are committed to providing both excellent service and first-rate care.