Top 5 Ways to Stop Animal Cruelty

1. Know the signs. Get to know neighborhood pets. Notice how they look and how they’re treated. Keep your eyes and ears open for changes in their behavior and appearance. Here are common clues an animal might be in trouble. They don’t necessarily mean a pet has been hurt on purpose, but these clues should not be ignored. Look for animals who have cuts, scrapes, or other bruises • have ticks or fleas• are missing fur • are limping• duck, whimper, or act aggressive • are almost always left outside when certain people approach • are too thin.. If you see any of these signs or witness someone hurting an animal, try to remember details. What did you see or hear? Where? When? Were there other witnesses? The more you can recall, the greater the chance that a mistreated animal will get help and the person responsible will be caught.

2. Report it. Never approach an injured animal—or a stranger. You could get hurt. Instead, know where to go for help. In your town, animal cruelty cases might be handled by animal shelters or police. Keep those phone numbers handy.If the person mistreating animals is someone you know—a friend or family member—talk to an adult you trust. Teachers, principals, counselors, coaches, and ministers are all good choices. At first, you might be afraid to tell. Maybe you’ve been asked to keep a secret. Maybe you’ve been threatened if you tell.But remember that animal cruelty is a dangerous secret to keep. When someone is cruel to animals, that person needs help. Others in the family might need help and protection too. Telling what you know is an important step to safety.

3. Learn the law. Laws are different from state to state and even from city to city. In some places, tying your dog out for more than a few hours is illegal. In other areas, it is allowed. What are your state’s animal cruelty laws? If you disagree with them or think they should be stronger, write to local lawmakers. Tell them why you think animals matter and what laws you would like to see added or changed to protect them.

4. Be a good role model. Take the best care of your pets. Make sure they always have food, water, and shelter. Take them to a veterinarian for checkups. Walk your dog on a leash. Keep your cat safe indoors. Play with your pets. Be their best buddy. Set a good example for friends and neighbors!

5. Be a voice for animals. Download our Junior Animal Care Agent badge (right-click on the link and select "Save As") that you can print, personalize and carry. Keep your eyes open for animals in need and remember step 2 to get them help. Encourage everybody to treat pets and wildlife with respect and kindness. Organize after-school and weekend projects. Let your lawmakers know that you care about how animals are treated.