Celebrate animals this week

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According to NSPCA spokeswoman Christine Kuch, the aim of the week is to recognise and celebrate the role that animals play in lives.

The NSPCA encourages everyone to use the opportunity of International Animal Week to make a real and lasting difference.

“It is about making conscious decisions that will have long-term beneficial effects for animals and, thus, for us all. Building a compassionate community is the aim,” says Kuch.

“It is about making choices; choosing to adopt from an SPCA or inviting the local SPCA to speak at a school or community meeting are basic, yet very good starting points.

“Being selective about what you support is a key issue. What may be called or promoted as a rehabilitation centre, sanctuary or welfare organisation with wild animals that can be petted or fed by hand is misleading and unethical.

“Supporting circuses with no wild animal acts is a worthy step.

“It is also good to insist on free-range produce, noting and reporting cruelty and speaking out – each of these can have a huge ripple effect.

“The old saying that actions speak louder than words can be applied.

“Making a conscious decision not to support websites that trade in live animals sends out a clear message, as is stating exactly why you will not attend or support ‘festivities’ where fireworks are used.

“Every year we issue an appeal to everyone to join in International Animal Week by supporting the activities in your area.

“In 2013 we wish to make this the starting point and to continue into and through the festive season, then onwards.

“It can be as simple as picking up litter, which of course harms and may even kill small creatures and birds.

“It is about showing that we care and being part of solutions.”

Contact your local SPCA to find out what activities will be taking place in your area.

Visit www.nspca.co.za for more information and don’t forget to leave your comments and ideas on www.facebook.com/nspca.