2006 has been a significant year for raising awareness of animal welfare issues. Of special importance to animal lovers was the passing of the Pet Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act in the USA in October, which requires emergency authorities to include companion animals in their evacuation plans if they wish to receive federal funding.

The California legislature passed two important bills this autumn: It is now illegal to chain or tether your dog to a stationary object for more than three hours a day or to leave pets unattended in cars when their health or well-being could be endangered.

Here is how you can help out:

Adopt An Animal
Thousands of animals enter shelters every year through no fault of their own. If you adopt your next pet from your local animal shelter, you will be saving a life. In return, these animals will give you love and loyalty.
Click here to adopt an animal now.

Start A Pet Fitness Plan
Has your pet become a couch potato? Sedentary animals could pay a price with obesity-related illnesses like heart disease, arthritis and hypertension. Make it a priority to consult your vet and put your pet on a diet and exercise routine.

Be A Caring Consumer
Thousands of animals are tortured and killed every year in product testing for household and personal care items. Make a choice to buy cruelty-free products from companies that do not use animal ingredients or engage in animal testing.

By incorporating simple acts of kindness and respect into our daily lives, we can make the world a happier and healthier place for animals - and for us.