Preserving Our Planet's Treasures: The Need for Animal Protection

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In the vast tapestry of our planet's biodiversity, animals are the living threads intricately woven into the delicate balance of life. We share this planet with a plethora of creatures, each with their own right to freedom and life. Animals are not mere extras but vital characters that influence the narrative of our planet. The eyes of an animal hold undeniable magic, a silent language that speaks of resilience and innocence. From the majestic predators prowling the untamed wilderness to the humble insects that diligently pollinate our fields, these animals possess a captivating allure that transcends words. However, in recent years, they have faced numerous threats that have pushed many species to the brink of extinction, with an average decline of 69% of wildlife species since 1970.   


The Significance of Animal Protection

Animals are integral components of our ecosystem and play a compelling role in preserving biodiversity. They maintain ecological balance through seed dispersal, pollination, nutrient cycles, and more. Animal protection also has a huge impact on human well-being. Animals serve as sources of food, companionship, scientific discoveries, and varied cultures. A healthy ecosystem is supported by thriving animal populations that contribute to clean air, water, and other services that sustain human life. Animals also fulfil specific ecological roles. For instance, herbivores maintain plant diversity, and predators help control the prey population.          


Several species face the threat of extinction due to loss of habitat, sudden climate changes, animal poaching, and other human-induced factors. By actively engaging in protection efforts, we can help save animal species, work towards restoring their populations, and ensure their survival. By recognizing the significance of animal protection, we should participate in maintaining a world where animals are valued, respected, and afforded the care they deserve.


Let's Examine How the Lack of Awareness of Animal Protection Fuels Bigger Problems

1. Zoonotic Disease Transmissions

Zoonotic diseases, originating in animals and spreading to humans, can have terrible consequences. Awareness about responsible animal care, proper wildlife trade, and disease tracking is crucial to controlling the risk of these outbreaks.


2. Brutality of Wildlife Trade

Animals are not our assets or products; they are sentient beings capable of experiencing emotions such as pain, pleasure, and joy. When animals are treated as commodities in trade, we inflict suffering upon living beings. This causes them trauma and distress, which is why it's important to understand that their needs can never be fully met in captivity.


3. Ineffective Laws and Policies

Lack of awareness can lead to policymakers enacting ineffective laws to safeguard animals. This can result in weak enforcement, inadequate penalties for animal cruelty, and limited legal frameworks for animal welfare.


4. Destruction of Habitat Causing Species Decline

Without knowledge about the consequences of deforestation, urbanisation, pollution, and climate change, people may unknowingly contribute to habitat destruction. This hinders efforts to conserve critical habitats and protect endangered species.


5. Severed Ties

Lack of understanding can result in disconnected relationships between humans and the natural world. This disconnection can lead to a diminished sense of empathy and responsibility towards animals, limiting our ability to address their welfare.


6. Inadequate Support

Without awareness, there may be a lack of public engagement. Adequate resources, funding, and legislation may not be allocated towards addressing animal welfare concerns, restricting our ability to tackle critical situations effectively.


To confront these challenges, elevating awareness about animal protection is crucial. Educating the public, launching outreach campaigns, participating in advocacy, and promoting media coverage all play vital roles in increasing understanding, empathy, and engagement in animal protection.


A Barn Owl: One of the city's silent disease controllers


What to Do When You Encounter an Injured Animal

Finding an injured animal can evoke a range of emotions, including concern and a desire to help alleviate their suffering. It is important to respond in a calm and composed way, even though it can be overwhelming. When an animal is in distress, it is in a state of fear and pain and cannot cry for help. Taking appropriate action at that moment is essential to safeguard and enhance their chances of recovery. Let's discover how to help an injured animal step-by-step:


1. Prioritise Your Own Safety

When encountering an injured animal, ensure your own safety and the safety of those around you first. Remember that your well-being is important to effectively help the animal. Assess any potential risks, and if any are noticed, immediately seek assistance from professionals or authorities trained to handle such situations.


2. Contact Wildlife Rehabilitation Centres or Animal Welfare Organisations

Wait for professionals to provide guidance, as it's best to seek advice from experts. Provide them with details about the animal's condition and location for them to respond appropriately.


3. Approach with Caution

If you've acquired assistance to approach the animal, do so gently and cautiously. Remember, the animal may be in pain and fearful, so maintaining a soothing demeanour is necessary.


4. Provide Temporary Support and Shelter

Create a comfortable space for the animal while waiting for the rescuer. Use a soft cloth or a closed box to provide temporary shelter in a warm and quiet area.


5. Do Not Provide Any Food or Water

Unless advised otherwise, avoid providing food or water to the animal. Its condition may require specific types of care, and feeding the wrong foods can worsen its injuries.


6. Do Not Attempt to Treat It Unless Trained

Unless you have proper medical training, refrain from trying to treat the animal. Without the right knowledge and skills, attempting to treat it may cause further harm.


7. Record and Report Vital Information

Visuals can help the rescuer better assess the situation of the animal. Take photographs and videos from a safe distance.


We stand as distinct species, endowed with the ability to shape the world and the power to ignite transformation as catalysts for change. Holding this unique gift, we can extend a helping hand to prioritise animal protection as caretakers of this planet. Our collective actions in encouraging responsible pet ownership, supporting, promoting, and volunteering in animal welfare organisations, and advocating for distinctive laws play an important role. By cultivating awareness, we can build a society that prioritises animal welfare and actively works towards sustainable coexistence with all living beings.

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