Animal cruelty is a broad term that covers a lot of different animal mistreatment behaviors. In essence, the meaning of animal cruelty is cruel and unnecessary treatment towards helpless animals. However, the meaning of the term "animal cruelty" changes depending on where you are in the world. From cruelty towards circus animals to over breeding female dogs at puppy mills, there are a lot of different types of animal cruelty.
Types
The methods of animal cruelty out there are endless, but some common forms of animal cruelty are cock fighting, puppy mills, abandoning cats, dogs and other household pets, treatment of circus animals, the fur industry, farm practices, animal experimentation in scientific laboratories, baby seals being bludgeoned to produce pelts and much more.
Potential
There are ways to help out in the fight against animal cruelty. Some of the most obvious ways to help out are by donating money to organizations such as PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). Other ways to help are by becoming vegetarian or vegan and not consuming any meat or animal-based products. Not wearing fur and only purchasing products that were not tested on animals are other positive ways to help (companies like MAC Cosmetics are great as they don't ever test on animals). Adopting animals from humane societies or directly off the street can help as well. It's also important to always be vigilant and report cases of animal abuse if you see them.
Geography
Every state in the United States has laws regarding animal cruelty. In 44 states, certain offenses towards animals are considered to be felonies. The Humane Society of the United States offers rewards of up to $5,000 for information regarding animal abuse offenses that are taking place. It is important to research the laws of your specific state so you know what to look out for.
Considerations
There are many great ways to adopt abandoned or animals that have been abused by previous owners. This is one of the most satisfying ways to combat animal cruelty. Websites like Petfinder can help users adopt needy animals from shelters all over the United States. It's a good idea to also go check our your local homeless animal shelter or humane society. And when looking for an animal, be sure to avoid pet shops as they acquire their dogs from puppy mills. In puppy mills, dogs are treated in cruel conditions and forced to repeatedly breed at the price of their good health.
Benefits
There are absolutely no benefits to animal cruelty, but you can make lemonade out of lemons. A lot of dogs that have been subjected to animal cruelty have issues such as dominance aggression and lack of trust towards humans. If you adopt an animal that has either been abandoned or treated in a cruel manner, you will have a long road ahead of you in terms of letting your animal feel safe and secure in its life with you. However, your connection and love for this animal could potentially be the most rewarding gift ever. Also, be sure to get your animal neutered or spayed as soon as possible so to avoid animal overpopulation!
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