Press Releases

March 31, 2005
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Direct: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org

April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month

MILWAUKEE ? If you spotted an individual abusing an animal, would you know what to do? Would you confront the alleged abuser, call your local humane society, contact the police or pretend as though you never saw the occurrence?

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 as 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 witness any life-threatening situations to an animal, call 9-1-1.

· Teach your children and others to respect animal life and how to live humanely. Books and games about treating animals humanely are available at the Animal Antics retail store, located in the Wisconsin Humane Society. Also, encourage your child's school to offer humane education classes.

· Educate yourself about animal-friendly legislation in Wisconsin . For more information, visit www.legis.state.wi.us.

· Screen your child's television programming to ensure they are not watching programs or movies that promote any kind of abuse.

· If you would like to become an animal advocate, the Wisconsin Humane Society offers its Guardian Animal Network program. 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 and promote ending cruelty and sustaining empathy and kindness in the community. To learn more about this program, please call the Wisconsin Humane Society at (414) 431-6159.

· Individuals interested in receiving a packet about companion animal laws are invited to call the Wisconsin Humane Society at (414) 431-6166.

Note: WHS currently has a cat who was shot in the leg with a pellet. This cat, who will be at WHS until end-of-day Friday, April 1, can serve as a good photo opportunity related to this story.

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