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Animal Update: Be Kind To Animals Week

(CBS SF) - May 6 - 12, 2012 is Be Kind to Animals Week.

"This special week was started in 1915 by the American Humane Association and it was a week to celebrate the bond between humans and their animals and the happiness they bring us," explained Dr. Jack Aldridge, Director of Veterinary Services at the San Francisco SPCA. "And it's also a chance to encourage others, especially children, to be conscious of being kind to animals."

What can kids do to get involved?

"There's an annual Be Kind to Animals kid contest," Aldridge explained. "It recognizes kids who really embrace the task of making their communities better and safer places for animals. Many shelters, like the San Francisco SPCA, have what's called humane education programs which offer shelter tours, classroom visits and other activities to encourage kids to engage with animals."

"The goal is to enhance the bond between children and animals."

For the "bigger" kids - the adults?

"Social media has been an amazing tool for causes and fundraisers of all kinds and there are many websites that make it easy to learn about animal welfare issues," offered Aldridge. "So make your voice heard and advocate for animal safety as well as well being."

"Learn what's going on, on both a national and local level, and get involved in the conversation and of course, Be Kind to Animals Week is a reminder to be thoughtful and diligent about the welfare of our own animals so make sure your pets are in good health, spayed or neutered, and up to date on vaccinations."

KCBS' Jeff Bell Reports:

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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