Be Kind to Animals Week

From May 3 to 9, it's American Humane's Be Kind to Animals Week. This yearly celebration of the role animals play in our lives has been a tradition since 1915.

Through Be Kind to Animals Week, American Humane promotes the human-animal bond and encourages humane treatment of animals. Many of the events teach children how to treat animals with respect and care. Last year, Jill's son Ian won the Kind Kid award in the 6-12 year old category for his craft business, which has raised over $18,000 for animal shelters. Read about this year's Kind Kids here.

Whether you're 5 or 105, everyone can help animals. Check out these ideas on how to be kind to animals and then visit American Humane's website for more information.

• Speak out for animals. Tell family, friends, strangers and law makers that it's important to take care of our furry friends.
• Report animal abuse. Often the presence of abused animals indicates other forms of abuse like domestic violence.
• Help dogs in need. Adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue or volunteer your time or donate money.
• Appreciate wildlife. Learn how protecting the environment helps all critters.
• Take good care of your pets, which of course means more than providing food, shelter and grooming. Show your pooch how much you love him by tending to his body, mind and spirit.

Now, treat your pooch to a little extra TLC today in honor of Be Kind to Animals Week.

Nominate a Kind Kid for Be Kind to Animals Week

The American Humane Association has been celebrating Be Kind to Animals Week since 1915. The annual event "commemorate(s) the role animals play in our lives, promote(s) ways to continue to treat them humanely, and encourage(s) others, especially children, to do the same."

As part of the festivities, American Humane recognizes a kid and a teen who has demonstarted extraordinary kindness to animals. Last year, Jill's son Ian won for his work with Ian's Bead Company, which has raised $18,000 for Chicago animal shelters.

Find out how to nominate a kid or teen here. Nominations must be postmarked by April 15, 2009.