Newton: I’m stepping in as spokescat today for an important message. Did you know that April is ASPCA’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month?
We are lucky cats who live in a safe home where no one can mistreat us, but many animals aren’t so fortunate. We know that abuse sadly happens in our community. Yours, too. If you see animal abuse or neglect, be sure to report it to the authorities so that it isn’t allowed to continue. Law enforcement doesn’t know the animals in your neighborhood like you do, so they won’t notice if one of them is showing signs of something being wrong.
Remember that abuse isn’t just someone kicking a puppy. Animals who are neglected and not given medical care when they are obviously injured or suffering from illness are at risk, too. As we move away from the cold weather days, don’t forget that winter isn’t the only time that the weather can be dangerous for animals left tied up without shelter, food, or water are still at risk. And of course, dogs or cats left locked in closed up cars are at risk from the heat, even on days when the temperature outside isn’t summery hot yet.
Know who to contact. Your local law enforcement is a good place to start, but in some communities, you might need to contact animal control for assistance. You are the voice for the animals who can’t dial a phone themselves to ask for help, and it’s up to all of us to help animals who are suffering neglect or abuse to get help.
Of course, we always support helping your local shelter or animal rescue. That is where many abused animals ultimately end up, and your helping out with a shelter or rescue can make a difference for an animal who was previously abused and is starting over again.
