Talk to the Animals: Ten ways to help animals

Orangutans can be saved by not buying products containing palm oil. Planting bird-friendly native trees and keeping cats in at night can also support animal welfare. Photos / Thinkstock

Personal action makes a difference at both local and global levels. The following ten suggestions offer tangible ways to support animal welfare and the protection of animal habitats through simple actions and choices.

1. Avoid buying products containing palm oil

The logging of virgin rainforest in Malaysia and Indonesia for the palm oil industry seriously threatens the survival of many species. Avoid products containing palm oil and speak out about the lack of labeling that prevents you from making this choice. Boycott timber products logged in the process by referring to 'The Good Wood Guide'.

2. Keep your cats in at night

Cats do a lot of their hunting at night. Those people that proclaim their cat's innocence may be quite surprised at their pet's activities after hours. If you live near native bush, consider not acquiring or replacing cats. See: How to keep an eco-friendly cat.

3. Report suspected animal cruelty

Don't presume someone else will do something if you see an animal that you think is hurt, lost, neglected or being mistreated. Phone your local SPCA, animal control, council or the police in emergencies. The more eyes on the street the better. See: What to do about animal cruelty.

4. De-sex your cats and dogs

This is important both for welfare and environmental reasons. As well as contributing to the huge number of unwanted and uncared for pets, cats allowed to breed indiscriminately impact on our native wildlife.

Photo / Thinkstock

5. Buy only free-range eggs and chicken and crate-free pig products

Factory farming contravenes the animal welfare act, and is allowed to do so as this method allows for the cheaper production of food. The real cost is to the animals involved as they endure conditions and treatment deemed unacceptable to any other creature. Avoid the resulting products altogether or buy humane alternatives. See: Are you guilty of animal cruelty.

6. Boycott products tested on animals

Unnecessary animal testing such as in the development of cosmetics, skin and hair care products contributes to the death and suffering of thousands of animals. Choose products that are cruelty free so as not to support this practice. See: Animal testing causes 'severe suffering' in NZ.

7. Plant bird friendly native trees

Those trees that offer a food source for native birds encourage these special visitors into backyards and provide birds with a rest stop between t fragmented forest areas. See: 10 ways to attract wildlife into your backyard.

Photo / APN

8. Avoid the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides in your garden

There are many effective organic products available for use in the garden that effectively control plant pests and weeds. Some chemical products negatively impact other creatures and can persist in the environment and leach into waterways. Permaculture and organic gardening techniques offers natural alternatives to achieving healthy gardens.

9. Speak out about animal welfare and environmental issues

Make your voice heard through attending public meetings, making submissions, and contacting your MP with regard to those issues that concern you. Support reputable conservation and welfare organizations that represent your views.

10. Teach your children to respect animals and the environment

The best way to teach children is to provide them with the best example possible. Explain why you are making animal and environment friendly choices and be the best role model you can. Helping to create environmentally conscious future generations is one of the best things you can do for the planet and its inhabitants. See: What kids can learn from pets.

Do you have more suggestions of actions and choices to help animals and the environment?