The unwanted truth

Multimedia slide show

Being kind to animals

Raccoon hitches a ride

Adopt a pet from P.A.W.S.

stories by Ryan Ori and multimedia by David Zentz

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Today through May 10 is the American Humane Association's Be Kind to Animals Week.

Animal shelters throughout the country hold special events during this week to promote their organizations.

At the Peoria Animal Welfare Shelter, 2600 NE Perry Ave., the Peoria Humane Society will celebrate by honoring grade-school students. Third- and fourth-graders at Thomas Jefferson took part in an essay contest explaining why their pet is their best friend. Winners will join their pets, parents and teachers at PAWS for a ceremony Monday.

"We hear so many bad things," said Kitty Yanko, education director for the Peoria Humane Society. "These are actually the people who treat pets like a member of the family."

For information on adopting a pet from PAWS, visit the shelter, call (309) 494-8911 or view available animals at www.petharbor.com.

Also, PAWS offers tips on helping reduce overpopulation and abuse of pets:

• Spay and neuter your pets and encourage others to do the same.
• Consider pets a lifetime commitment.
• Don't pass on a problem animal to another owner.
• Keep pets inside and stay up to date on vaccinations.
• Donate time and money to shelters and other organizations helping animals.
• Report animal cruelty.