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You probably already know that dogs and cats get Lyme Disease, just like humans. Click here to learn more about Lyme Disease, and alternative treatments for humans and pets...Click Here!
Animal Welfare Rights - It's a Big Issue and Includes Dog Rescue, Cat Rescue and It's All About The Caring People Who Make A Real Difference...
In the US, animal welfare is protected by laws called the Animal Welfare Act. The laws are complex, because they cover such a wide range of issues. The Act is managed by the US Dept of Agriculture. But much of our animal welfare is managed by volunteers and non-profits through agencies such as Rescue Societies, Animal Shelters, Humane Groups, etc. We're lucky that such a vast majority of people in the US are, in fact, animal lovers, and the large number of pets we own shows that we cherish our relationships with animals. THANK YOU to all of the generous people who give their money and time to support animal welfare! ! !
Get a Kleenex, and Watch This Amazing Video - A Tribute To People Who Perform Animal Rescue and Safeguard Animal Welfare - Accompanied by a Phil Collins Song - This is BEAUTIFULLY Done ! ! !
The UK also takes its laws seriously, regarding Animal Welfare. Interesting, they defined 5 Freedoms to which every animal is entitled: The five freedoms:
Freedom from thirst and hunger
Freedom from discomfort
Freedom from pain, injury and disease
Freedom to express normal behavior
Freedom from fear and distress
I think this is very heartening and pretty much sums up what all pet lovers (and animal lovers) believe is a minimum standard of care. (Wouldn't it be nice if these freedoms were ALSO accorded to humans as a matter of right and law?)...opps, stop me...I'm preaching... Animal Welfare Rights, are the concern of hundreds of organizations today, from Dog Rescue, Cat Rescue and Adoption Groups and Shelters.Ever wonder why so many dogs and cats end up in shelters, or being placed with dog rescue, cat rescue and other humane organizations? There are so many reasons.Often, new pet owners are disappointed when they discover the time, money and commitment it will take to bring a pet animal successfully into adulthood. And pet ownership is expensive. That's why, for screening purposes, many adoption shelters make sure that you understand the yearly cost of owning a pet BEFORE you're allowed to adopt. (By the way - in 2009, it cost around $2000 a year to own a dog, and of course it could cost much more if the dog has special needs). Family problems, including separation and divorce, job loss, house move, relocation, and illnesses are some of the reasons pets are given up for adoption. New pet owners may be unaware that animal training is hard work. It takes much patience to train a dog. And good results come from the process of rewarding, praise and repetition. Some people are just not suited to be pet owners. Unfortunately, they learn this AFTER they've purchased or adopted a pet. Everyone, especially the pet, would be far-better off if new pet owners could "borrow" a pet to make sure they're really up to the challenge and commitment of a 24/7 relationship. Sounds far-fetched, maybe, but think about it, it's a good idea. Shelters and rescue groups usually have a "no questions asked" policy about receiving unwanted animals, because they far prefer an animal to be given-up then face the risks associated with a bad home.
Here are some useful links to read more about Animal Welfare:Link to the Websites, by State, of the National Animal Control AssociationLink to the Websites, by State, of the State Federation of Humane Societies American Humane Society This last link is very important - it could help you and your pet in the event of an emergency!A Searchable Database of 3000 Animal Shelters, Humane Societies and SPCAs near you - Use this link in the event of an emergency!
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