This week is the 99th edition of ‪‎Be Kind to Animals‬ Week and you can join the celebration and help by taking the pledge to stand up for all animals today! After you take the pledge, you can also share one of several cute images to help spread the word.  Visit www.americanhumane.org/bekind to take the pledge and help spread the word about the importance of being kind to animals this week and EVERY week!

More Ways to Celebrate Be Kind to Animals Week:

Adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue 

Every year, an estimated 3.7 million animals must be euthanized at our nation’s shelters because they could not be adopted into loving homes. Help animals find a second chance at happiness by adopting your next pet from your local shelter or rescue group. American Humane Association has pet adoption tips to find the animal companion that’s right for you and develop a bond that will last a lifetime.

Take care of your pet

Pets are like children who never grow up. They need you to help keep them healthy and safe throughout their lives. Keep your animal’s vaccinations up-to-date. Make sure he’s wearing proper identification. Take your pet to the veterinarian regularly. Know what it takes to be a responsible pet owner.

Appreciate wildlife

All animals deserve to be treated humanely — family pets and animals in the wild. Create an inviting space in your yard and garden for butterflies, hummingbirds and other creatures. If wildlife comes too close to home, look for ways to coexist with animals or to protect your property humanely.

Report animal abuse

Animal cruelty and abuse is not only tragic for animals, but also an indicator that other forms of abuse such as domestic violence could be happening. If you see something that looks suspicious — a dog chained in your neighbor’s yard that looks underfed, a child putting a cat in a box and kicking it around the yard — don’t hesitate. Let someone know.