Press Releases

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:  Angela Speed

 (414) 431-6104  aspeed@wihumane.org

April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month

MILWAUKEE – If you spotted someone abusing an animal, would you know what to do? Would you confront the person, call your local humane society or contact the police?

As a way to help educate the public about animal cruelty, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has declared April “Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month.” The Wisconsin Humane Society recommends the following tips for members of the community to make life more humane for animals:

• Research indicates there is a link between animal abuse and human violence. If you witness or hear about animal cruelty taking place, don’t assume someone else will contact the appropriate authorities. Take the initiative to immediately report the situation to your local police department and the Department of Neighborhood Services. If you see an animal in a life-threatening situation, call 9-1-1. See wihumane.org for more great advice and resources.
• Teach your children and others to respect animal life. Books and games about treating animals with respect are available at the Animal Antics retail store, located in the Wisconsin Humane Society. Also, encourage your child’s school to offer humane education curriculum.
• Educate yourself about animal-friendly legislation in Wisconsin. For more information, visit www.legis.state.wi.us.
• If you would like to become an animal advocate, the Wisconsin Humane Society offers a Guardian Animal Network (GAN). This program was developed to encourage responsible animal guardianship, end cruelty and neglect and promote kindness toward all animals and people. The network includes individuals who serve as animal advocates, promoting empathy and kindness in the community. To join the network of guardians, log on to wihumane.org or call the Wisconsin Humane Society at (414) 431-6159.

Kids can help spread the word about being kind to animals by entering the Be Kind to Animals Poster, Photo and Poetry Contest! It’s a wonderful way for young people to express themselves creatively and show their love for animals. Winning entries will be recognized at a special ceremony held in celebration of Be Kind to Animals Week in May.

Interview Opportunity: Bap, a neglected Shih Tzu, will be available for filming from 10:00am-12:00pm on Tuesday, April 1. She is currently receiving medical treatment at WHS and will eventually be available for adoption. To schedule an interview with a WHS spokesperson about animal cruelty, please call Angela Speed at 414-431-6104.

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