June 14 – June 20, 2021, marks the 20th annual Animal Rights Awareness Week (ARAW). Created by In Defense of Animals (IDA) in 1991, ARAW seeks to honor animals worldwide. It provides an opportunity to bring public attention and awareness to animal needs, rights, and wants. Below are six ways you can get involved with ARAW this year!
Breeder Research
Adding a new member to the family is a big deal. If your priority is to find a dog or cat that is compatible with you instead of a specific breed, you can adopt from a local animal shelter or online adoption organization.
If you are interested in having a four-legged buddy from a specific dog breed, you’ll need to go through a breeder. It is super important to ensure the breeder is legitimate and not running a dog mill.
A reputable breeder will always be able to provide references for past litters. They should be more than willing to offer a tour of their facility and answer any questions you may have. If the breeder declines any of these requests, consider why they would be doing so – it may be time to find a different breeder.
Buy Cruelty-Free Products
A simple way to make a meaningful impact is to research the products you regularly use. Determine if the products are being humanely produced and tested by the company. A quick internet search will provide this information for any curious mind. Alpha Paw products are natural and guilt-free!
Option of Adoption
Instead of going to a breeder, adoption can be a perfect alternative. Most local shelters and rescues list their available animals online and are willing to take specific requests for potential future animals they take in. Be sure to check out local pet stores since they often host adoption events on-site for partnering shelters and rescues.
Research Non-Profits
Sometimes money is the easiest way to make a big difference. Donating to a cause can often be the best way to help sustain their mission. When deciding on an organization, make sure that you know where the money is going. Legitimate non-profits will be transparent with where their donations go and the direct impact they make.
Support Local Spay and Neuter Programs
In a lot of suburban areas, you can find low-cost spay and neuter programs. They typically offer low-cost services to pet owners and people providing trap and release (TNR) services for stray cats. TNR allows stray and feral cats to be spayed and neutered then released back to their home area.
Another option is to buy a bag of Victor’s doggy treats! For every bag of treats sold, a meal is donated to a shelter dog!
Volunteer at a Local Animal Shelter
Time is money. Your time is priceless when it comes to volunteering. Local animal shelters are always looking for volunteers, whether that be one-time or an ongoing commitment. There are always plenty of dogs wanting to go for a walk. Not to mention the amount of cleaning to be done.
Final Thoughts on Animal Rights Awareness Week
Animal Rights Awareness needs volunteers during the celebration week. Most shelters have volunteer information directly on their website for anyone that may be curious about getting involved. No matter how you choose to spend this Animal Rights Awareness Week, you are sure to make a difference with any awareness activity you choose!
Check out Alpha Paw’s blog to stay updated on holidays, heartwarming animal friendships, and information about our wonderful products! Share your thoughts, what kind of pet do you have and what is your favorite Alpha Paw product? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
