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| For little Sofi, every week is "Be Kind to Animals Week". But some animals aren't so lucky! Spread the joy. |
This week its "Be Kind to Animals Week", and that is worth thinking about. Its not because most of us are unkind to animals. The sad truth is that quite often animals simply aren't considered. Their concerns are ommitted. They're easily forgotten.
As one of my friends said this week, "children, old people and animals just need a bit extra..." and we have plenty of that to give. Being kind to animals is an active process that warrants some planning and there are some things you can do this week (or next week, or every week) that will bring about joy.
- Adopt an animal from a shelter. There are way too many animals seeking forever homes in Australia (read more here).
- If you are a landlord, offer pet-friendly accommodation. There is a shortage of pet-friendly accommodation and this contributes to a large number of animals admitted into shelters.
- Support pet-friendly retirement, aged care and nursing home accomodation.
- Prepare a gourmet meal for the non-humans in your life (how about a salad for your guinea pigs?)
- Take the pledge to say no to animal-tested cosmetics and cleaners and support cruelty free products.
- Create something that animals will appreciate - a bird bath, a toy for a dog or cat, a shelter for wildlife. For more ideas click here.
- Help your elderly relatives or neighbours with dog walking, pet feeding or cleaning up.
- The best thing you can give a companion animal (apart from a home) is your COMPANY. Go on a date with your dog (Or cat. Or ferret).
- Volunteer at an animal shelter, or help out with a fundraiser.
- Donate to an animal-friendly organisation or cause. Most animal oriented organisations sell merchandise - do your xmas shopping early (make people AND animals happy). (If you're stuck for ideas, how about an Edgar's Mission Gift of Kindness?)
- Invest in continuing education to improve the services you can offer your patients. The Centre for Veterinary Education is offering early-bird rates on their Distance Education program.
- Reduce your carbon footprint. Its their planet too!
SAT would love to hear what you're up to in Be Kind to Animals Week.
