How To Get Involved In National Justice For Animals Week
Every year, the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) dedicates a week to raising public awareness about animal abuse, teaches the public about how to report it, and encourages communities to push stronger legislation forward.
It can be difficult to know how you can make a difference, but in our ever-connected digital world where it’s hard to not be aware, it’s more important than ever to do what we can to be the voice for those who don’t have one. The ALDF specifically recommends the following ways to get involved:
- If you’re a student, join your local SALDF chapter.
- Understand the proper ways of reporting animal cruelty.
- Know your state’s animal protection laws.
- Sign the Animal Bill of Rights.
Worthwhile Organizations
To further support the efforts of the ALDF and National Justice for Animals Week (Feb 25-March 3), thoroughly research and pick a reputable organization that advocates for animals and that means something to you. Then, dedicate your advocacy efforts — no matter how big or small — on their behalf.
I will say that I am heartbroken right now because our baby girl Tutu just passed away on Saturday. Tutu’s story begins with her mom Winnie, who was an abandoned and abused stray dog that we gave a home to when we found her. She was the first dog for our little family. She was fiercely loyal to the girls and protective. The only other dog that she allowed in our yard was her daughter Tutu. I was there when she gave birth to Tutu. She was one of nine puppies. I am so excited that my husband said we could keep one of them. From the fiercely loyal Winnie we got probably the happiest dog ever, at 14 years old she was a puppy at heart. Such a sweet face and always willing to give a lick and a smile.
Over the past few months, we noticed the decline in her health and her slow movement, and I quietly prayed that God will let her pass before we made the ultimate decision to end her life.
We know we want another dog, one that was abandoned but we just aren’t ready for another one just yet.
A few other organizations I trust include:
Animal Welfare Institute
The Animal Welfare Institute was founded in 1951 to aid animals subjected to human cruelty. 92% of their funds are spent on programs over administrative expenses.
PetSmart Charities
The PetSmart Charities mission is to improve the quality of life for all pets. They create and support a number of programs to help save the lives of homeless pets, and also help promote healthy, educated relationships between people and their furry friends. 93% of funds are spent on programs and the executive director isn’t paid, meaning less administrative expenses.
Performing Animal Welfare Society
The PAWS organization is specifically dedicated to preserving and protecting wildlife that’s been abused, abandoned, or retired captive, and have been active for more than 30 years and operate an animal sanctuary in California.
Animal Legal Defense Fund
I’d be remiss if we left out the leaders of National Justice For Animals Week. They’ve been operating and advocating on behalf of animals since 1979, fighting for their legal protection and taking on cases “that advance the interests of animals.”
Ways To Donate
While giving your money to organizations who will use the majority of your donation to the cause you care for certainly makes an impact, there are other ways you can give back. For example, you can donate:
Your Time
There are so many things that go on locally we often don’t know about. Check out various local organization’s sites and social profiles to see if there are any events coming up you can help volunteer for. If there really isn’t much, you can even hold one of your own. Here are a ton of different ideas for fundraising events, like holding a good old-fashioned bake sale. You can also check out this great article giving you 151 Fundraising Ideas.
Your Digital Space
Be a public advocate by leveraging your following on social platforms to shout-out and tag the organization you want to bring awareness to. You can even dedicate your birthday to a specific cause and organization on Facebook, prompting friends to donate as a way to celebrate. And don’t forget the hashtags: #NJFAW #Justice4animals
Your Expertise
What are you good at? You may not realize it, but there are many ways you can use what you know for a good cause. For example, if you’re a crafty DIY-er or chef, put together scratching posts or make treats for local animal shelters. If you’re a marketing guru, run a gorilla campaign on behalf of an organization.
Lastly, like and share this post to help spread the word!
Similar Posts:
- Allie Talks about Adopting Pets
- Allie Spreads Kindness with I and love and you
- Allie’s Corner: Losing Your Pet
