Did you know that April is designated Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)? The month is designated to increasing awareness and prevention of cruelty to all types of animals.

Last week we celebrated ASPCA Day (April 10) by wearing orange. This week, I’m announcing some ideas of things you can do all year round in support of the prevention of animal cruelty.

Make a donation

Donations to the ASPCA will help to alleviate the needless fear, pain and suffering in animals’ lives. There are a variety of giving options available on the ASPCA website. If you don’t donate to the organization, why not donate to a local shelter? You don’t even need to offer financial assistance. Most shelters welcome donations of pet food, cat litter, dog toys, towels and other supplies.

Volunteer at a shelter

Volunteer at any shelter, in any town across the country. Whether it be a local no-kill shelter or a county Humane Society, give in-kind by offering your time or any other assistance the shelter may need.

Foster animals

If you have the space and the time, fostering animals is a great way to help out. Contact your local animal shelter or a local chapter of a specific breed rescue to see if you can help.

Contact Your Legislators

Write letters to your Congressman and local officials to urge them to vote for harsher penalties for animal abusers. Research your state’s laws in the House and/or Senate at this time. Laws range from regulations to punishments for issues like puppy mills, horse slaughter, breed-specific legislation and dog fighting.