What You Can Do To Help Stop Animal Cruelty

Have you ever seen someone hurting an animal and felt like you couldn't do anything to stop it?

Well, read on—there are important ways that you can speak up.

Get help! If you see someone hurting an animal, or know of an animal who looks sick, injured or does not have food, water or shelter, you can do something about it. Never try to help the animal yourself. Instead, tell an adult you trust. Together, you and an adult can call the police or your local animal shelter.

Write everything down. Be prepared to provide information on the cruel act that you witnessed. Write down what you saw happen, who was involved, the date of the incident and where it took place.

Be a leader. Be kind to animals and others will follow. Let your family, friends, classmates and adults know that hurting animals is not cool.

Be responsible! Don't let your animal friends roam free. Keep your cats indoors. Dogs should always be on leash and supervised when they're outside.

Volunteer your time! You're never too young to volunteer your time helping animals. Contact your local animal shelter or humane society for junior volunteer programs. For a list of shelters in your area, search our National Shelter Directory.

Spread the word! Share facts and information about the prevention of animal cruelty and responsible pet care with your friends, family, teachers, neighbors and classmates.

Get to know and look out for the animals in your neighborhood. By being aware, you're more likely to notice, for example, that the dog next door who was once hefty has lost weight rapidly—a possible indicator of abuse.

Start a club! With the help of one of your teachers, organize an animal lovers' club at your school.