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Animals are kind to us. They’re selfless and loving companions, a source of camaraderie, and fill our lives with joy. It’s our duty and privilege to give them the respect, care, and kindness they deserve. That’s why we celebrate Be Kind to Animals Week from May 1-7.

While it’s important to be kind to animals year-round, the Be Kind to Animals Week campaign is a long-standing tradition that reminds us of all the ways we can be kind to our furry compadres. Being kind doesn’t necessarily mean committing to adopting an animal. There are many ways you can indirectly benefit animals and make them feel welcomed, cared for, and fulfilled.

We have a wonderful community of animal lovers, so we wanted to share some ways that you can be kind to an animal not only this week, but for the weeks (and months and years) to come!

1. Be kind by speaking for those who have no voice

Do you see an animal that looks to be in distress? If you’re inside the City of Winnipeg give our Animal Protection Officers a call at 204-982-2020 and let them know. If you live outside of Winnipeg and want to report an animal in distress, call the Provincial Vet’s Office at 204-945-8000.

2. Adopt…when you’re ready

Commit to adopting a pet from an animal shelter! Animals at The WHS are up to date with shots, spayed/neutered, and you’ll receive behaviour support from our knowledgeable staff along the way. If you feel prepared and ready for a pet, adopt one this week during Be Kind to Animals Week. If you aren’t quite ready, that’s okay! We want to make sure every adopter is prepared before making their commitment.

3. Your donations put smiles on animals faces

Donate! The majority of The WHS’s expenses in 2015 were dedicated to the WHS Clinic and Animal Care. You can be kind to an animal by donating either money or supplies that will help the animals feel cared for and loved.

4. Donate your time…as a volunteer

Donate your time….as a volunteer! The WHS has over 700 volunteers at any given time. Last year they committed over 42,000 hours of volunteer work in a variety of ways. We have cat cuddlers, dog walkers, clinic volunteers, animal care volunteers….even our administration area benefits from volunteers who help with a variety of critical tasks. When you’re a WHS volunteer, you are directly impacting and helping animals and they truly appreciate seeing you around the shelter. If you love animals, but can’t have one in your life, volunteering could be right for you.

5. Spay or neuter your pet to prevent unwanted litters

Our clinic performs hundreds of subsidized spay and neuter surgeries every month. It’s one of the most effective ways to combat cat overpopulation and prevents unwanted litters. Fewer unwanted animals on the streets of Winnipeg keeps our current pets safer and prevents more causalities and injuries in veterinarian offices.  If you already have a spayed or neutered pet, that’s great! Encourage your family and friends to do the same thing.

6. Play time is fun for you and your pet

Spend some time with your pet! They’re social creatures that love to play and interact. Get exercise with your dog by going for a walk or playing some catch. Cats love to play too. Find some interactive toys like cat wands or laser pointers that result in hours of enjoyment for the both of you.

7. Proper identification results in feel good stories

Identification is a very kind thing to do for your pet. It’s unfortunate, but sometimes animals do get lost. In order for your pet to have the best chance of returning home, make sure they have a tattoo ID number, a City of Winnipeg license, and even a microchip. If you move with your best friend, it’s critical to update your pet’s address too. That way we know where to contact you if your pet finds their way to the Winnipeg Humane Society.

8. Join in on the celebration of animals

Take part in the celebration of pets in June! The Fairmont Winnipeg Paws in Motion is Manitoba’s largest celebration of pets. Join animal lovers from all over the city for a pet-friendly walk-a-thon, booths, displays, live entertainment, and tons of activities for both you and your pet.

9. In the name of farm animals…eat humanely

Manitoba has a variety of humane foods, producers, and restaurants. Because many of the farms are independently owned and smaller, the supply is not always as consistent as large producers, but you can rest easy knowing what’s on your plate is humane. Shop for free run/organic eggs or opt to visit a local restaurant that uses local food in many of their menus items.

Meatless Monday is a global movement aimed at reducing meat consumption and benefits farm animals, impacts global warming, and your health! You’re not only being kind to animals, but also to the environment and yourself.

10. Bond with your dog over classes

Dog classes are an outstanding way for your and family to bond with your pet. They teach your pet discipline and other skills that will make them the perfect pet. They also love having a dedicated time of the week to hang out with their family and interact. The WHS offers a variety of classes from basic and advanced family dog classes, specialized reactive dog classes, and even a tricks and game class. Your dog will love you forever for this.

Happy Be Kind to Animals Week!