First, spay or neuter your pet. Statistics show that 10-12 million pets are euthanized annually in the United States. Using the lower figure of 10 million, that's 192,308 per week or 27,473 pets euthanized every 24 hours, 365 days a year.

Second, if you are thinking of getting a pet, please check with your local Humane society before purchasing one. These are animals at great risk of being euthanized.

Third, volunteer at or donate to a no-kill shelter, almost every major city (an many small ones) has one. I volunteer for one of our local no-kill cat shelters The Cat House (opens a new window). I've never volunteered anywhere before and have found this to be one of the most gratifying things I have done.

Fourth, if you see any animal abuse - Report it! You can do so anyonmously if you wish, but please report it.

Fifth, push for legislation, animal abuse/cruelty is a felony in only 31 states. Get involved! Write your local government, make sure they know animal abuse has to be taken seriously.

For more:
IVillage Pet Adoption Center
The Animal Rescue Site
Pet-Abuse.com
For more links please check my links page (yet to come).