Beyond Sympathy: Helping Animals

I don't know why or when it started but I have an immense amount of love for animals and all living things. I have been vegetarian for more than half of my life and I am constantly looking out for creatures in need. I am the type of person whose entire day will be ruined by seeing a dead animal on the road or seeing a helpless injured animal any time any place. When I was younger, I was at the mercy of my parents decision making and for them, helping animals never really crossed their mind. Since having my own transportation and money, I have felt a strong sense of relief in being able to help animals whenever the opportunity is there. Truth is, anyone can help animals and most of the time it is not time consuming.  This blog post will give you some ideas and resources on the following:

• How to look out for animal abuse and or neglect.
• Ways you can help stray dogs and cats
• Feral cat care ideas
• Information on helping native wildlife

First, lets begin with some statistics[1]:

Abuse and Neglect

According to the Humane Society, "The animals whose abuse is most often reported are dogs, cats, horses and livestock."[2] Common forms of dog neglect include lack of proper shelter, food, water, veterinary care, and hygiene. It is important to keep in mind that no all animal abuse is obvious and neglect is not always intentional but animals count on us to look out for them and call for help. Some people leave their animals outside and alone for their entire lives. Sometimes these people are our own friends and family. Consider having a conversation about improving the quality of life of their pet. Pets only live so long after all and they deserve to have meaningful and happy lives.

5 things to look out for: [3]

• Lack of proper shelter: Animals left outside without protection from the elements.
• Unsanitary living conditions: Dirty or unsafe environments such as an area full of waste.
• Physical signs of abuse: Limping, swelling, bloody urine, broken teeth, or hidden injuries under the fur.
• Behavioral changes: Cowering, fear of certain people, especially around the suspected abuser.
• Signs of torment: Cruel teasing and intimidation such as yelling or threatening physical harm.
• Chains: Chaining is illegal in California.

If you suspect animal abuse or neglect, call the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter at 831-454-7200. It is so important to speak up, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Stray Dogs and Cats

Things happen and sometimes pets end up loose in neighborhoods or city streets. Most pets run away on Fourth of July[4] or when heavy fireworks are going on but occasionally you might find loose dogs and cats. People often turn a blind eye to dogs and cats on the street which is really sad because the chances of them getting hit, killed or injured by a car is really high. It really doesn't take much effort to help these animals.

6 ways to help lost/loose dogs and cats:

• Stay equipped: Carry an extra leash in your car.
• Assess the Situation: Before approaching, observe the animal to determine if it’s injured, sick, or aggressive. Approach cautiously to avoid startling them.
• Provide Food and Water: If the animal seems hungry or thirsty, offer food and water to help gain its trust. Avoid feeding it something that might be harmful, like human snacks or sweets.
• Check for Identification: Look for tags on collars to see if the animal has identifying information that can help return it to its owner. 
• Take Them to a Shelter or Rescue: If the owner can’t be found, take the animal to a no-kill shelter or rescue group, where they will be cared for and potentially rehomed.

3 ways to help feral cats:

1. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)
• TNR helps prevent overpopulation, reduces harmful behaviors like fighting, and improves the overall health of the colony. For TNR information in Santa Cruz, visit Project Purr.
2. Provide Food and Water
3. Offer Outdoor Shelter
• Create simple, weatherproof shelters for feral cats using inexpensive materials like plastic bins or wood.

Note: you do not have to do all of these things offering clean water is better than not helping at all.

https://www.nativeanimalrescue.org/rescuing/

Helping Wildlife

Santa Cruz County is so rich in wild life thanks to sloughs, forests, the ocean and other nature around us. While it's best to not interfere with wildlife, there are times when these animals might need our help. For example, you encounter an orphaned baby skunk or racoon, you spot a bird with a broken wing or you see an animal crossing the freeway. Native Animal Rescue in Santa Cruz County is one of my favorite organizations. They specialize in rescue, rehabilitation and release. Their website has amazingly helpful information on how to coexist with your wild neighbors, and what to do if you find a wild animal needing help.[5] Native Animal Rescue relies on donations so donations are always welcome! If you encounter an animal on the highway, it is best to report them by calling 1-800-TELL-CHP or by calling 911 for your own safety and the animals safety. You might save its life!

Conclusion

Most people have sympathy for animals but I think we should think BEYOND sympathy. I hope my blog post encourages, motivates and inspires you to report animal abuse or neglect, help that loose dog on the street get to safety, to leave clean water out for feral cats or to look into Native Animal Rescue and educate yourself on when and how to step in when it comes to helping wildlife. Also, please consider talking to your friends and family about any dogs, pets or animals that they might unintentionally be neglecting.

Works Cited:

[1] https://news.orvis.com/dogs/inforgraphic-lets-put-a-stop-to-animal-abuse

[2] The Humane Society of the United States. https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/animal-cruelty-facts-and-stats

[3] Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. https://www.scanimalshelter.org/abuse-neglect/

[4] Zachary, J. (2022, June 7). How to prevent your pet from going missing this Fourth of July. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/prepared-pets-go-missing-july-4-5-day/

[5] Native Animal Rescue https://www.nativeanimalrescue.org/