· THE HUMANE SOCIETY CELEBRATES “BE KIND TO ANIMALS” WEEK WITH LOCAL STORIES THAT
WILL INSPIRE AND CHALLENGE US ALL!

This year, “Be Kind to Animals Week” runs from May 4th through the 10th, 2008.  Originally created in 1915, the week is designed to recognize and celebrate the unique bond between humans and animals. Over the next four days, the Humane Society will be providing examples of some of the inspirational ways that people all over this community have worked to help animals of all kinds and offer some suggestions on how we can continue build a compassionate community for all living things.

Recent events have reminded us all that great apathy and cruelty can exist and even prosper if people of conscience do not remain vigilant.  While the Humane Society has faced great suffering due to several high-profile cruelty events beginning in February, our staff has been heartened by the massive outpouring of generosity, empathy and support which helped heal wounds and save lives.  But we also must remember that kindness exists around us every day, parceled out by ordinary people from a variety of backgrounds whose only reward is just the knowledge that they alleviated some small suffering due to their actions.  The stories we will offer may not be as earth-shaking as raids on dog-fighting rings or the rescue of hundreds of abused animals from deplorable breeding facilities, but they are just as relevant and just as inspirational.

• On Tuesday, May 6, we will share how children from all over southern Arizona demonstrate that advocates can come at any age or in any size.  One of the stories we will highlight concerns a local elementary school where, over the last three years alone, the staff and student body have raised almost $8,000 in supplies and money to help homeless, abused and neglected animals.

• On Wednesday, May 7, we will look at how humane education and cruelty prevention programs are working to bring about lasting change by altering our very perception of animals and their role in our homes and lives.  We will include examples of how some programs are using animals as partners in the healing and rehabilitation of both special needs children and violent offenders.

• On Thursday, May 8, we will share how innovative and aggressive spay and neuter programs are addressing the animal overpopulation problem all over southern Arizona; and how HSSA is leading the way in bringing the talents and knowledge of our veterinary community to address broader community issues.

• On Friday, May 9, we will look at cruelty issues and how our local and state law enforcement and criminal justice personnel, at the very highest levels, are championing animal causes. Information will include details on pending legislation, coalition efforts to stop animal-related violence and new developments in Pima County that are putting animal abusers on notice!

“BE KIND TO ANIMALS” WEEK, PART 2
“BE KIND TO ANIMALS” WEEK, PART 3
“BE KIND TO ANIMALS” WEEK, PART 4
“BE KIND TO ANIMALS” WEEK, PART 5