The power of human connection is one of the biggest tools we have to fight health and safety issues. That’s why awareness days, weeks, and months have so much significance. They rally us around a cause and help to spread knowledge and support. But, there’s a big list of other awareness events that pass quietly every year without much notice. However, these happenings are very special because they are designed to highlight issues concerning animals. One such awareness event is National Animal Safety and Protection Month, which takes place annually in October.
What Is National Animal Safety and Protection Month All About?
National Animal Safety and Protection Month is dedicated to promoting safe practices concerning the caring and handling of both domestic and wild creatures. It’s built around the idea that animals play an essential role in our everyday lives, so it’s vital to ensure they are treated kindly and with the care and respect they deserve.
Who Promotes National Animal Safety and Protection?
This annual October event was established by the PALS Foundation. PALS is an organization created to help people and animals coexist in ways that benefit both. PALS believes that all humans must understand the crucial roles animals play in our lives and our ecosystem.
What Does National Animal Safety and Protection Month Mean for My Pets?
You can participate in this annual event by taking every step necessary to keep your own pets safe. For example:
- Keep all pets up-to-date on their immunizations and vet checkups.
- Make sure your pets can be easily found and returned if they become lost. Your dog should wear a collar with ID tags, and both dogs and cats can be microchipped. If you have more uncommon pets (a parrot or a boa constrictor), take photographs that will come in handy should they get loose.
- Ensure that your pets cannot come into contact with poisons, toxins, or choking hazards in and around your home.
- Learn basic animal first aid. Caring for your pet at home can prevent a minor injury from becoming more severe. Always call your vet if you are unsure what to do.
- Know your pet. Be aware of any behavioral changes that might indicate signs of illness.
- For the information of firefighters or police, place up-to-date decals on doors and windows with how many humans and pets are in the home. Also, list what kinds of pets and where they can be located.
- Have an escape plan in place if you need to evacuate your family and your pets quickly from your home because of an emergency situation such as a fire, flood, tornado, hurricane, or earthquake. Know who will be responsible for locating each animal in your house, where your pet carriers are stored, and how you will transport your animals to safety.
Though October is just one month out of twelve, these safety measures should be attended to all year round. With effective safety practices in place, both your human and animal family will lead safer, happier, and healthier lives. Click here for a full list of pet awareness events taking place throughout the year.
Be Prepared for a Pet Emergency
Know where the nearest emergency veterinary facility is located and the quickest way to get there. If you live in Columbia, SC, CVETS is a state of the art Emergency Vet and Surgery center that is ready to help your pet 24/7. Don’t hesitate to bring your animal friend to us for the best in emergency care.
