Report, Support, Advocate: Join the Fight Against Animal Cruelty

Happy Tuesday. This is the 3rd week in April, which means it's Animal Cruelty/Human Violence Awareness week. It makes sense that these issues would be combined; research shows that those who commit violence against animals are more likely to also commit violent crimes against their fellow humans. Protecting animals means protecting people.

It's impossible to forget some of the horrific situations we have seen, and this week our thoughts turn to the rescued animals we've cared for over the years. Some needed months of coaxing to come out of their shells, as they had never known human kindness. Some spent years in our foster homes as their court cases dragged on, preventing them from being adopted. Our thoughts turn to Annabelle, who was one of 108 animals we took in from a negligent breeding operation...our largest rescue yet:

Fortunately, these animals have found love. But, heartbreakingly, the problem of animal cruelty continues. Our thoughts also go out this week to the animals who are currently suffering in silence, whose rescue has not yet come.

We hope to be able to reach every victim of animal cruelty before it is too late, and together we can fight back on behalf of the powerless. Here are some quick actions that you can take:

• Report animal cruelty or neglect if you suspect it. Our Rescue team is able to investigate in Washtenaw County and can be reached at 734-661-3512.
• Support your local animal rescue. Most rescue teams, including ours, are 100% funded by donations.
• Stay informed on opportunities for animal advocacy. You can sign up for our alert system by texting DEFENDER to 734-662-5585, and we will notify you when there are urgent actions you can take to support policies in our community and beyond which protect animals.
• If you adopt from a breeder, be sure to research their credibility and ask to see where the animals are kept. If they don't allow you to see where they are housed, this is a huge red flag!

And finally, the easiest action of all...if you're a pet parent, give your furbaby (or feathered or scaled baby!) some extra love this week! Together we can make the world a more compassionate place.