You Don’t Have to be in Politics or Law Enforcement to Save Abused Animals

 While it may be politicians that help pass legislation protecting animals, and law enforcement with the power to remove them from a dangerous situation, each one of us can, and has the responsibility to help an animal that is being mistreated.

Some of you reading this may be surprised to learn how much power you have, to make a difference in animals’ lives.

Let’s start with being a vigilant neighbour. No one is suggesting you become a spy, just be aware of what’s going on around you. I am sure there are many instances where neighbours genuinely had no idea what was going on next door. Having said that, there are many more times where people know, or at least suspect something terrible is going on, yet do nothing.

Don’t say you don’t want to get involved. Would you turn a blind eye if it were a helpless child? Then why ignore an innocent creature that is suffering? Like the child, he cannot speak or defend himself. That’s why each of us has an obligation to help those that cannot help themselves.

Are you worried about the possibility of reprisal, should the abuser discover you were the one complaining? The fear of an intimidation campaign against you and your family is a legitimate concern. After all, your family and their safety come first.

Perhaps you weren’t aware, reporting can be done anonymously. Call your local police department to voice your concerns, and ask how you can remain anonymous.  You’ll need to provide them with as many details as you can such as, address, type of animal, what you suspect or have witnessed. Keeping track of what you’ve seen and heard and dates and times, can be valuable information to provide.

Reporting any suspected case of animal abuse, is a wonderful thing to do. You can leave it at that, or if you’re interested in following the case, ask the police how you can keep up to date on the investigation.

Unfortunately, our animal welfare laws are often weak, even with the best of intentions, there’s often very little that can be done. Having said that, it is not an excuse to ignore it. Even if all that can be done is having visits from the police or humane unit, knowing they’re being watched may be enough to scare the abuser into stopping.

Animals can’t free themselves from beatings, starvation and neglect. You can!