There’s still too much animal abuse in this world. If the story surrounding the conviction of football great Michael Vick doesn’t convince you, nothing will. Those of us who care about animals feel compelled to do something to help when we can, but not all of us know what steps we can take. Perhaps a little education and team work could make a world of difference.

Know that there is information and there are resources out there to help you recognize the signs of animal cruelty and give you guidance on what you can do to stop it. A leader in this regard is the ASPCA which, in 2008, partnered with another wonderful organization, Do Something! Do Something’s goal is to educate teens through an online community which provides a safe setting where kids can discuss ways in which they can improve the world. One hot topic on their site covers animal welfare.

Do Something provides teen friendly resources and content about animal welfare. The program is quite popular and is a huge success! Since the beginning of the program, the ASPCA has awarded ten $500 grants to teens that have taken action and implemented their very own animal welfare projects. Protecting animals is not just a job for adults; it is a job for young people as well!

Of course you may be wondering what, exactly, “humane education” entails. In effect, the ASPCA anchors humane education in teaching us how to care for our world. From environmental education all the way to a more granular approach focusing on our very own pets, humane education touches on all elements of environmental, community and animal welfare responsibility. The ultimate objective is a better planet for all of us.

There are many things you can do in your own community to prevent animal cruelty. Are you ready to step up to the plate and take action? Are you ready to start making the world a safer and kinder place for animals? If each one of us takes responsibility and lends a helping hand it is possible to dramatically reduce the number of animal cruelty cases that are reported each year. Below are a few ways that you, yes YOU, can help to prevent animal cruelty. So jump on board, let’s fight animal abuse TOGETHER!

Knowing who to call if you witness or suspect animal abuse is perhaps the most fundamental step in making a difference. Take the time to find your local Humane Society number and keep it handy. More useful in a general sense is your local police non-emergency number.

You can also make a big difference by simply keeping your eyes open for animals frequently left chained outside for extended periods. If you notice a dog chained outside with no available food or water, make the call for intervention.

Make sure your children grow up to be responsible citizens by educating them on animal welfare issues. Teach them to be compassionate and respectful of animals and ensure they know that dogs and cats experience feelings and emotions such as pain, sadness and joy just as we do. By taking this step, you are doing your part to take care of our animals well in to the future.

Should you witness animal abuse, avoid getting involved directly. Call the authorities and let them deal with the situation. It is difficult to stand back while abuse is going on, but you expose yourself and your family to the risk of retaliation should you try to take matters into your own hands. Responsible agencies will act even if the report is made anonymously.

Help define new and stronger laws by joining the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade. Catching bad guys in the act only does so much. The penalties for their crimes are where the real changes need to happen. By contributing to anti-cruelty petitions and writing to your local legislators demanding tougher laws, you can help make a real difference in deterring people from engaging in animal cruelty.

There are many things you can do to help animals and prevent animal abuse. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or give up a lot of time, all you have to do is open your heart and be aware of what is going on in your community. Together, we can make this world a kinder and safer place. Not only do humans deserve fair and kind treatment, animals do as well. So jump on board.let’s fight animal cruelty together!