A graduate with a master's degree in business administration from Creighton University and a doctor of philosophy in clinical psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute, Dr. Carole Orem is a licensed clinical psychologist trained in depth psychology and brain science. Dr. Carole Orem is also the owner of WholeBrainMaine and the managing director at NeuroHealthMaine, both based out of South Portland, Maine. Outside of work, she volunteers at the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee as she is passionate about animal rights and the humane treatment of all animals.
Animal cruelty is one of society's biggest problems. From stray dogs and cats to livestock on factory farms, animals across the globe are suffering every day due to neglect, starvation, disease, and even death. But, there is something everyone can do to help stop animal cruelty.
It is important to recognize signs of animal abuse. There are three main types of animal abuse: physical, emotional, and neglect. Physical abuse includes beating, maiming, starving, torturing, poisoning, and killing. Emotional abuse includes yelling, screaming, name-calling, and threatening. Neglect can consist of leaving animals alone for long periods, starving them, providing inadequate shelter, or failing to provide medical treatment.
If you witness someone abusing an animal, speak up. Tell the person to stop immediately. Do not let anyone get away with hurting another living creature.
You should contact your local police department if you suspect animal cruelty. They may be able to take action against the abuser. You can file a complaint online via the National Humane Law Enforcement Center or report anonymously at www.peta.org/reportabuse.
If you can foster or adopt an animal in need, consider doing so. Many organizations provide shelter for abused animals. Some even offer adoption programs. A foster parent cares for an animal while the owner works to find a permanent home for the animal. Adoption is similar to fostering, except the new family adopts the animal instead of taking care of them temporarily. Both options give the animal a loving forever home.
