June 17- June 23 is Animal Rights Awareness week, so it is important to recognize all of the ways to be a supporter. Animals deserve respect not only this week, but all year long! Here's how you can help…

1) Be Cruelty Free

So many animals are mistreated in the food and cosmetic industries, so sanctuaries like this help to rescue animals from neglect and abuse. It's important to help animals find their way to sanctuaries and find a way to help volunteers keep places like this running.

2) Adopt Don't Shop!

It may be difficult to find a connection with an animal in a shelter because of the high volumes of energy that is always there, but these animals need homes too. The Humane Society of Utah uses photos of these dogs to show their personality in a picture, which allows people to see how a dog is when they're not under the stress of the shelter environment.

3) Foster a Pet in Need

Fostering an animal can help to socialize them before they find their forever home. Many shelters, including Home for a Good Dog need people to take in and foster their animals so the shelters don't become overcrowded and so they are able to take in more. Once an animal is comfortable in a household, then it's easier to find them a loving family.

4) Don't Discriminate!

Certain breeds of dogs are often discriminated against because of stereotypes around their nature. Foundations like "Stand Up for Pits" bring to light the importance of how even these animals can be the sweetest, and shows ways (i.e. fostering) to help an animal in need.

5) Remember, Old Dogs Need Love, too

Animals could never be too old to love! You don't know what you could be missing out on in a companion if you never go for the senior dogs, and only for puppies.

6) Volunteer!

Shelters are always looking for volunteers, many are non-profit and need the work of volunteers to keep themselves in business. Shelters like the Animal Humane Society use their volunteers for many different tasks, from sending thank you cards, to walking dogs, to helping families find their perfect pet.

7) Educate… Animals are beings too!

Aria the Tiger was bought by a loving family as a cub, but was improperly taken care of. Once she was rescued, she was able to gain her weight back. We can't keep treating animals as things, but as beings instead.

All animals are wonderful creatures who are looking for love and respect of their nature. We hope that you can help to spread awareness for animal rights in your own community!