Advocating For Animals

National Animal Advocacy Day is on the 30th. This cause holds a special place in our hearts. Our furry friends are just as emotional and loving as humans, and they truly bring joy and fulfillment to our lives. Nevertheless, they have no control over their own destinies. It is our responsibility to shape their futures. Continue reading as a Mapleton, UT vet discusses animal welfare issues, and lists a few ways that you can be an advocate for our furred, feathered, and scaled friends. 

What Does The Animal Welfare Act Cover?

The Animal Welfare Act, established in 1966, is the sole federal law in the United States that governs the treatment of animals in research, transportation, exhibition, and by dealers. Although it has undergone multiple amendments, there are still some remaining loopholes.  For more information and a handy reference guide, please check out this resource here.

How Do I Follow Animal Welfare Developments? 

The Animal Welfare Institute is an excellent resource for covering these issues. You can find their website here. It encompasses a broad range of subjects, spanning from horse-drawn carts to shark finning. The ASPCA is also a great resource.

What Is Some Good News About Animal Welfare?

This topic can be quite serious, but let’s make sure we end on a positive note. 2024 is off to a great start in this regard. There are several new laws on the books that are moving in the right direction. For instance, California has recently implemented new mandates that call for using non-animal-based tests for certain products, including pesticides, food additives, and chemicals. Michigan became the 16th state to pass laws that require dogs and cats involved in research to be made available for adoption once the trial is over. Pet stores in New York have made the decision to stop selling dogs, cats, and rabbits, which is a significant blow to the puppy mill industry, while pet stores in Pennsylvania must now display breeder information and health documents for puppies.

What Are The Root Causes Of Animal Welfare Issues?

Multiple factors contribute to the various issues that can affect animals and their overall health, happiness, safety, and well-being. Regrettably, acts of carelessness and cruelty have been a recurring issue. However, there are several concerning issues that deserve our attention, such as animals being used for medical experiments, the lack of veterinary care and proper care for domestic animals, the black market trade of exotic animals, and the practices of factory farming, just to mention a few.

Another significant issue revolves around the use of animals for entertainment purposes. This can encompass a wide range of topics, from the thrilling world of racing to the beloved elephant rides that people enjoy at fairs or parks. Disasters, war, and poverty can also have a significant impact. These tragedies have a profound impact on both individuals and the animal kingdom.

Climate change and habitat loss are also contributing factors. Animal advocacy encompasses a wide range of animals, including those in the wild. Wildlife is greatly affected by habitat loss. These numbers are quite sobering.

• Approximately 94 percent of temperate forests have been impacted by farming and logging activities.
• Almost 98 percent of old-growth forests have been lost.
• Only 3 percent of America’s prairies and grasslands remain untouched, a stark reminder of the impact of human activity on these natural habitats.
• More than half of America’s wetlands have been destroyed. In Europe, the percentage is even higher, with estimates ranging between 60 and 70 percent.
• Over half of the wetlands in the United States have been lost within the past two centuries. Overseas, the situation is even more dire: a staggering 60% to 70% of European wetlands have been lost.

Engaging with local conservation groups, making an effort to plant native flora, and minimizing the use of toxic chemicals are all simple actions that can contribute to making a positive impact. How Can I Become An Advocate For Animals?

Making a difference through advocacy doesn’t require a significant time or financial commitment. Every voice holds significance in this particular domain, and even the smallest actions can pave the way for significant progress.

You can start with your own pets. Just doing some research on your furry friend, and taking some time to learn about their needs, body language, and what makes them happy will have an impact. There’s always something more to learn about our animal friends! Your veterinarian is also an excellent resource for this.

Getting your pet fixed can make a significant difference, especially with dogs and cats. Allowing Fluffy or Fido to have a litter or two may seem cute and enjoyable, but these adorable puppies and kittens are only contributing to the problem of animal overpopulation. It’s also crucial to ensure that your furry friend has a microchip, is spayed or neutered, and is sporting identification tags. Identification helps by providing a safety net for your pet in case they ever get lost is a straightforward and essential measure.

Are you in search of a new furry friend? Adopt, Don’t Shop is a fantastic guideline to keep in mind. When considering a store or breeder, it’s important to select one with a solid reputation.

Do you have a yard? Join the no-mow May movement and let the birds and bees enjoy their meal of dandelions before you trim them away.

In addition to supporting animal rescues, you can also make a difference at a grassroots level by advocating for laws and regulations that protect animals.

Helping Kids Advocate For Animals

Are there any young children in your household? Now is an excellent opportunity to discuss with them the significance of advocating for proper animal welfare. Lots of kids find themselves captivated by and genuinely caring towards our adorable animal companions. You could also consider 

Here are some activities you can try:

• Have a yard sale or bake sale to support a local animal welfare organization. It’s a great way to give back to the community and help our furry friends in need.
• Visit a bookstore, thrift store, or even the library to find some excellent books about animals.
• Watch an animal-themed movie or documentary that is suitable for children and then have a discussion about it.
• Host a pet supply drive to support a nearby shelter.
• Make things like toys and pet beds for shelters
• Volunteer at a rescue
• Foster pets (This won’t be right for everyone.)
• Virtually adopt or sponsor a wild or rescued animal. 
• Participate in local children’s programs, like 4H.
• Consider setting up bird feeders and planting native flora to help out pollinators and other local wildlife. These actions can create a welcoming environment for our winged friends and furry neighbors.

It’s also important just to talk to your kids, and let them know about the importance of treating animals with kindness and compassion. 

Your local Mapleton, UT veterinarian might have some recommendations for nearby rescues and shelters.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Mapleton, UT Veterinarian

Is your furry friend in need of a check-up? Feel free to reach out to us, your neighborhood Mapleton, UT pet hospital, whenever you need assistance! We are committed to providing exceptional service and unparalleled care.