My purpose when starting Take Paws And Relax was to have a concentrated place where people could see into a piece of my life with Caesar and Jeter. I wanted to show people that it’s important to treat other living things with respect and to always show them kindness and love. Take Paws And Relax is a place where I’m always advocating for the best treatment of all dogs, animals, and even people.
Late last week I found out that I was nominated for the Van Wert YWCA’s Women of Achievement Advocacy Award. I am humbled, honored, and excited to be nominated for something so special. But more than that, I am happy to feel seen. I have a lot of opinions and views, and I’m constantly speaking about them or finding ways to writing about them through my work. Most of these views pertain to treating people, animals, and our Earth with respect. Sometimes, I feel like I’m just talking and no one is even paying attention. Being nominated at least tells me that I am being heard by someone.
While I was likely nominated for the work I do advocating for women, especially with the YWCA, I couldn’t help but reflect on my advocacy work with companion animals. I am passionate about a lot of different human right’s issues, but the thing that really drives me is the humane treatment of animals. Dogs are my main focus because of the special bond I share with my two boys; I know just how special, smart, and capable a dog can be, and I also know they need people like me to care about them.
Dogs cannot speak for themselves. On average, a dog has about the same mental capacity as a two-yea-old child. They are bright and can learn a lot of things. They feel pain, but they are also hopeful creatures who always look for the best in people.
Becoming a advocate for your dog and other dogs means learning about topics that affect them, leading by example, and relentlessly standing up for them.
Education is a key piece in advocacy. When a dog is being mistreated or abused, it’s important to know the laws that protects them. On a more basic level, education can also help you understand how to give your dog the best life through proper diet, exercise, and care. Furthermore, education can help tell you a lot about your dog’s body language and how to be respectful of their space in order to avoid putting your dog in uncomfortable situations that may cause them to react negatively.
As an advocate, I always try to lead by example. It’s easy to tell people what they should be doing, but how you implement the rules into actions in your own life is vital. I often advocate the importance of walking a dog and giving them a proper diet, which I passionately implement in my own home with Caesar and Jeter. The positive effects have been profound. There are other ways you can lead by example though; if you are passionate about animal rights, see how you can get involved.
For many years, I felt like I wanted to “do more.” In August 2018 a chance finally arose; I joined the Van Wert County Humane Society Board of Directors in order to have a more hands-on impact in the humane treatment of companion animals. Through this position, I’ve been given chances to create opportunities where owners can celebrate their relationships with their pets. I joined the fundraising committee within the Humane Society to help raise money for the the shelter while fostering an environment of love and compassion for animals. If you are looking to get involved in the Van Wert County Humane Society, let me know. I can help!
Of course actions are powerful, but I’m a writer so I believe whole-heartedly in the power of words, as well. This means that when something is unjust or unfair, it’s important to speak out. It also means that it’s important to speak out about the importance of dogs’ basic needs in addition to acts of cruelty. Like I said above, dogs don’t have voices; they need us to talk for them. Educating people on responsible dog ownership is (obviously) one of my passions. For instance, one way I try to advocate for dogs is by ensuring people know the respectful way to approach a dog. It’s important to always ask the owner before touching their dog, and to avoid petting dogs in the face. Instead, pet their backs and if they walk away from you, allow them to do so without forcing your affection on them.
The ways in which you can be an advocate for your dog are endless. Dogs need us to be their allies, to educate those around us on important topics regarding their health, rights, and well-being, and to always speak up for them loudly and proudly. Be an advocate for the animals in your life!