Animal cruelty can fall under two categories, either neglect, or intentional cruelty. Neglect is basically the failure to provide adequate and necessary care for the animals. Examples of neglect would include things like starvation, dehydration, inadequate shelter, parasite infestations, failure to seek veterinary care when an animal is in need of medical attention, confinement without adequate light, ventilation, space or in unsanitary conditions, etc. In some cases neglect is a result of the owner’s ignorance. This is the case with most Guyanese who think nothing of the neglectful attitudes that they have with their pets. It’s simply the way they’ve grown accustomed to, so it becomes second nature.
It must be noted that choosing to keep a pet means choosing to take up the responsibility of caring for such. Just as you wouldn’t neglect a child, the same must be applied to pets.
Take this as a public service announcement: Neglecting your pets or treating them cruelly is punishable by law. If you have a pet that you don’t think that you can take care of anymore, don’t stray them away. The Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, located on 65 Robb Street and Orange Walk, Bourda would be more than happy to take and care for them. They even allow for the option to adopt a pet. So if you need one, just pay them a visit!
