Veterinary centres call for individuals to celebrate the international Be Kind to Animals Week, which runs until May 7.
Animals are sentient beings who can experience feelings and sensations.
According to Alberton SPCA manager Charmain Southon, we are treated well by animals. They are altruistic and caring companions who bring us delight and provide a source of sociability.
“It is our responsibility and privilege to treat them with dignity, care and love that they deserve. This is why from May 1 to 7, we honour Be Kind to Animals Week,” said Southon.
While being kind to animals is important all year, the Be Kind to Animals Week campaign is a long-standing tradition that reminds us of all the ways we can help our furry friends.
Being compassionate does not always imply committing to the adoption of an animal. There are numerous ways you may help animals indirectly by making them feel embraced, tended to and pleased.
Ways you can show kindness to animals
• Always remember that animals are living organisms with no ability to communicate verbally, so citizens must regard their own safety.
• Protect their emotional well-being.
• Avoid unnecessary litters, spaying or castrating your pet.
• Share your time by volunteering.
• Adopt when you are completely ready.
• Know the type of breed your pet is.
• Remember to be the voice for those who are voiceless.
• Arrange playtime for your pet.
Owner of the well-known JOY Dogs Sue Green said we need to be kind to animals as they give us unconditional love, are always happy to see us and communicate this to us by their body language.
“Animals ask nothing from us, and they are always there for us, especially when we are emotionally drained,” Sue said.
Southon said that with animals what you put in is what you get out, so it is always advisable to be kind as possible to them.
“Animals are so forgiving and very loving creatures that you would sometimes get people who use physical punishments on the animals; however, you will still find that the animal remains devoted to its owner,” she said.
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