WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, April 13, 2020 — American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, is urging all animal lovers to show their support for “Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month.” Humans are capable of great destruction, but they are also capable of great good. By working together and pledging to prevent animal cruelty, a difference can be made in the lives of animals who are suffering.

“It is up to us to speak up and intervene if we witness animal abuse,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane. “Compassion for animals begins at home – use this opportunity to educate your children on the importance of animals. You can’t protect what you don’t love, and you can’t love what you don’t know. Set an example and show children how to treat animals with kindness and consideration.”

It’s important to understand the signs of animal neglect, whether it’s intentional or not, and to report it for the sake of the animal. Key signs of neglect to watch out for include:

• No shelter; Animals need protection from the elements while outdoors to ensure their welfare and well-being.
• A tight collar; Not increasing the size of a collar as an animal grows causes injury, strangulation and death.
• Lack of grooming; Without regular grooming, a pet, especially a long-haired one, can get massive matting and sores.
• Mange; Mange, caused by tiny parasites, leads to itching, loss of hair and sores from scratching and biting to relieve the irritation. Mange is easily treated with medicated baths.
• Starvation; Starvation is caused not only by lack of food, but also by improper food, untreated disease and parasites (like worms).
• Tick or flea infestations; Such a condition, if left untreated by a veterinarian, can lead to an animal’s death.
• Injuries; Untreated wounds or obvious signs of injury often means the animal is in constant pain.
• Aggression; Animals who cower in fear or act aggressively when approached by their owners are not in a safe environment.

American Humane encourages you to recognize the indications of animal cruelty, and immediately report it to local animal control or law enforcement. Without information from concerned citizens, law enforcement would not be aware of most instances of animal abuse. Pledge your support to end animal cruelty and keep a watchful eye out for neglect.

About American Humane

American Humane is the country’s first national humane organization. Founded in 1877, American Humane is committed to ensuring the safety, welfare, and well-being of animals, and our leadership programs are first to serve in promoting and nurturing the bonds between animals and people. For more information or to support our work, please visit https://www.americanhumane.org/