The general conversation followed the lines of why this story had caused such an uproar when it is something that is happening every day. Don't get me wrong; we were all very saddened and disgusted to hear of this brutal killing. However, by the same token what about all the other animals that are poached or endangered by humans? Because they aren't famous, they matter less? I believe these issues should be reported more frequently in the media to raise awareness. While the readers may not want to read about it every day, we should be given more regular information about the extent of the problem. Bizarrely, I came across this picture today which sums it up perfectly (don't scroll down if easily distressed)
According to WWF, there are 99 species that are endangered, vulnerable or of concern. To top it off, animals on this list (as well as many others) also face other forms of torture at the hands of humans. What is most shocking is that all of these dreadful things happen for the sake of a hobby or for earning money. I can't blame as much the people in poor countries who make a living from poaching, as long as there is a demand for those items poaching will happen. In this case, it is down to the government to create better job opportunities so that they don't have to earn money in this way. I can't abide those who do it for a thrill, there are many other ways you can seek thrills without having such a negative impact.
As we were finishing our conversation, I noticed a friend had been really quiet throughout. So I asked him if he didn't agree with our arguments. His response? He thought it just as appalling as the rest of the group but believed there was nothing he could do to help. This is probably a pretty standard response, but if you believe enough in a cause there are always things to be done.
What can we do to help?
1. Social media is one of the most powerful ways of having an impact. I recently read 2 blog posts I found on Twitter that rapidly changed my mind on riding elephants and swimming with dolphins.
2. Adopt an animal, a great way to involve children in caring for animals.
3. Donate money. I know that there are so many causes out there and we can't donate to all of them. If this is the issue you care most about then you can donate a monthly amount, every little counts. If like me, there are more charities you are very passionate about, why not swap your donation about? The best way is every 6 months change which charity you will donate to. I always make sure I have a balance between charities for animals, helping people with illnesses and natural disaster emergency funds.
4. Sign any petitions that come your way and then share them via social media. It might help, it might not but at least you know you have tried. If everyone had the same mind set as my friend, nothing would improve.
5. Change how you live. Research what your products are made of, buy from eco-friendly companies, use less paper and recycle more, don't use products tested on animals and take steps to help reduce climate change.
6. Participate in raising awareness campaigns. The website dosomething.org has many campaigns that you can join to help make the world a better place. There are plenty of other websites that have campaigns, for example for animal protection check the WWF or PETA website.
7. Finally, and most importantly.....
Don't make excuses. Whatever the issue that concerns you, there are always ways and means of having an impact. Whether you can only do one of the things above or all of them doesn't matter, the important thing is making a contribution.
What can we do to help?
1. Social media is one of the most powerful ways of having an impact. I recently read 2 blog posts I found on Twitter that rapidly changed my mind on riding elephants and swimming with dolphins.
2. Adopt an animal, a great way to involve children in caring for animals.
3. Donate money. I know that there are so many causes out there and we can't donate to all of them. If this is the issue you care most about then you can donate a monthly amount, every little counts. If like me, there are more charities you are very passionate about, why not swap your donation about? The best way is every 6 months change which charity you will donate to. I always make sure I have a balance between charities for animals, helping people with illnesses and natural disaster emergency funds.
4. Sign any petitions that come your way and then share them via social media. It might help, it might not but at least you know you have tried. If everyone had the same mind set as my friend, nothing would improve.
5. Change how you live. Research what your products are made of, buy from eco-friendly companies, use less paper and recycle more, don't use products tested on animals and take steps to help reduce climate change.
6. Participate in raising awareness campaigns. The website dosomething.org has many campaigns that you can join to help make the world a better place. There are plenty of other websites that have campaigns, for example for animal protection check the WWF or PETA website.
7. Finally, and most importantly.....
Don't make excuses. Whatever the issue that concerns you, there are always ways and means of having an impact. Whether you can only do one of the things above or all of them doesn't matter, the important thing is making a contribution.
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