What is Animal Abuse?

When you think of animal abuse you may only think of people beating their animals or not feeding their animals, but there is so much more to it. Legally, some of these things may not be considered “abuse” but they should be!

People should not leave their pets tied up outside year round, or loose outside. This should be animal abuse. Domesticated pets are bred to live in doors not outside. Yes, you should take your dogs out for walks or have a fenced yard for them to play in, but that shouldn’t be their permanent home. They are not wild animals that are made to survive the different weather changes. Ask yourself this: would you leave your child tied up outside with an open doghouse to sleep in during rain and snow? Would you want to be left in that situation? If for some reason you have a pet that once you were able to keep in the house with you and are now no longer able there are many resources in which to find your pet a good home that doesn’t consist of living outside for the rest of it’s life. Try finding a family member or friend that will take the pet of your hands or research some shelters that can find the pet a new home for you. If it is an older pet that you are worried may not get adopted out wouldn’t it be better the animal go to a shelter and get put to sleep peacefully than be forced to live the last of it’s life freezing or burning up outside?

Another form of animal abuse that should be more widely considered is not taking your pet to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations. Domesticated animals, just like humans, need to see their doctor (in the animals case, their veterinarian) regularly to ensure optimal health. If you do not get your dogs and cats vaccinated they are susceptible to numerous illnesses and diseases that can be fatal and easily transferred to other pets. When you start to come down with something don’t you go to the doctor? When it is time for your children to go to school don’t you take them for their annual vaccinations? Most people think of their pets as family members, but this should be something done by all people, not just most.

As you now see, animal abuse doesn’t have to just entail someone beating or starving his or her pet. Treat your pet like they are a valuable member of your family and take care of them as such! They will thank you for it with cuddles and kisses!
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