Adopt a Shelter Pet & Prevent Animal Cruelty

National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

Date: Today is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day.
Action: Consider adopting a pet if you have been thinking about it.
Example Pet:
- Name: Ham Sandwich
- Characteristics:
  - 10-year-old Chihuahua
  - Super sweet, cuddly, enjoys laps
  - Loves to go for walks but also loves snuggling
  - Gentle spirit, good with kids and other animals
  - Thinks he's a big dog and can stand up to other dogs

Further Advice: Visit the Arizona Humane Society to meet other animals if Ham Sandwich is not the right fit.
Options: Wide variety of animals in need of homes.

Facts:
- April is National Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month.
- Arizona Humane Society investigators responded to over 6300 calls for animal abuse last year.
Signs of Potential Animal Cruelty:
- Animals that seem underfed (thin)
- Several animals with no food, water, or shelter
- Animals not receiving medical treatment
Actions to Take:
- Report to local police or Arizona Humane Society
- Reports can be made anonymously on their website
- Better safe than sorry approach

Weather Ordinance (City of Phoenix):
- Animals cannot be tethered in extreme weather conditions
  - Over 100°F or under 32°F
- When tethered, it must be at least 10 feet long
Hoarding Ordinance:
- Owning more than ten animals in poor conditions can be a violation

Community Responsibility: Be vigilant and report any cases of suspected animal cruelty.