How To Help Out Our Furry Friends This International Homeless Animals’ Day
The International Homeless Animals’ Day was introduced by ISAR (International Society for Animal Rights) in 1992 as a way to create awareness regarding the overwhelming pet overpopulation epidemic in America. Candlelight vigils were held to showcase the hurdles faced by animal shelters in the country due to pet overpopulation. Over the years, the event has grown in scale and is now observed worldwide on the third Saturday of August. Awareness camps and activities are organised to discuss various topics pertaining to animal rights and the protection of homeless animals. This year, the International Homeless Animals’ Day falls on the 19th of August, and you can participate by helping out our homeless four-legged friends in the following ways –
1. Volunteer At An Animal Shelter
Animal shelters always need active and enthusiastic volunteers for walking, feeding, and bathing the animals. Visit an animal shelter in your locality and offer to help out the staff with their daily chores. Any affection shown to these abandoned animals can help expedite their physical and mental recovery from the trauma faced by them on the streets. The few hours you spare to volunteer at the shelter can make a huge difference in the animals’ lives.
2. Adopt Or Foster A Stray
There is an abundance of stray dogs and cats in our country who spend their lives in dismal conditions on the streets. Adopt a stray and offer him or her a safe and comfortable home. If your lifestyle does not allow you to dedicate enough time for raising a pet, you can foster them for some time until they can find a more permanent home. Get the animals vaccinated and provide them food and shelter for a few days until they can become a part of a loving family.
3. Help Out An Injured Stray
Have you ever noticed an injured animal on the streets? The next time you do, take them to a vet for examination and treatment. There are also various NGOs and animal shelters that provide free treatment to stray animals. If you cannot take up the responsibility of adopting the animal then at least get them admitted into an animal shelter where they will get the appropriate care that they deserve.
4. Spread Awareness Regarding Animal Rights
This International Homeless Animals’ Day, many non-profit organisations will be conducting camps to spread awareness among pet owners and the citizens in general about animal rights. Volunteer to help organize any such event that educates the citizens regarding the right way to treat animals, whether they are pets or strays. Promote the event on social media and encourage your friends and family members to attend. If you can help make the event a success, you will be doing your bit for the animals.
These are some of the ways in which you can contribute to the cause of animal rights and protection without having to go down the route of monetary donations. A voluntary contribution of labor for this cause can be more effective than financial aid in solving the issues faced by the homeless animals of the country. So donate your sweat for the well-being of these adorable creatures this International Homeless Animals’ Day, to help out those who are unable to fight for their own rights.