For any animal lovers that didn't make it, or any supporters who were apprehensive of the idea of a 'protest', there are still many things you can do to behind the scenes to help out in the animal field.
1. Sign the petition online
Every name counts! Among all their other hard work, the New Zealand Anti-Vivisection Society (NZAVS) is running an online campaign for the encouragement of human-based research methods, which not only will be beneficial to the animals, but also provide safer and more accurate testing for humans. You can find the petition over on the NZAVS website under 'Campaigns', along with a few other notable petitions.
2. Meat Free Monday
Meat Free Monday is a movement that supports the cutting back of meat in our daily diets. This doesn't have to be strictly reserved to Monday, or just one meal, as long as you're making a conscious effort to minimise, it's a step in the right direction. There are many tasty Vegetarian and Vegan recipes at your fingers with the help of the internet - some of them are so delicious you won't even notice what you're missing! Not only are these meals delicious, great for the environment and animals, but they're an easy way to drop a few kilos in a healthy way.
3. Adopting a new family member
Even if it's just for a visit, head over to your local SPCA and say hello to all of the resident cuties! There's nothing nicer than some unconditional loving - especially when both parties are getting some joy out of it.
4. Put it in the rubbish
Next time you're strolling the beautiful St Kilda Beach or wandering through the Botanical Gardens, take a few moments to look around and grab any rubbish that may have made its way into the wrong place. Not only is this making sure our fauna have nothing to run into trouble with, it's also keeping our beautiful community tidy.
5. Educate yourself
There is so much you can learn about how we can help our furred and feathered friends to be happier and healthier, and there are some key documentaries that can teach you a thing or two that might encourage you to make better daily choices. Cowspiracy and Before The Flood are both excellent films highlighting the environmental impacts of farming animals.
6. Take the dog for a walk
Although there is many animals around in need of our help, we can only do so much! Spend some time with your own pets and make sure they feel loved too, after all we owe it to them to give them the best life we are able to. Whether it be an extra 10 minutes on their daily walk or a big snuggle on the couch, the gestures definitely won't go under appreciated by those big puppy dog eyes.
Though they may seem minimal, these few things can make a huge impact if everyone gives them a shot and you'll feel great after doing them which is a bonus!
- Chantelle Smith
