PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals)
If a research facility, farm, pet store, sporting event, or any other institution is abusing animals... PETA will make their lives miserable!... That's what I LOVE about these guys! Not only has their undercover investigative work helped save/improve the lives of thousands of animals, but they're also more than happy to tell anyone with similar concerns where to write, e-mail, and petition so your "voice" is heard! This is why I joined... and I'm an active member too! I don't hesitate to e-mail PETA when I hear of/see cruelty locally here in New York City (I reported miniature horse abuse at a Long Island carnival recently)!
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NAVTA (North American Veterinary Technicians Association)
NAVTA represents and promotes the profession of veterinary technology (as called 'veterinary nursing'), providing direction, education, support, and coordination for its members, and works with other allied professional organizations for competent care & humane treatment of animals. I especially like the educational seminars held at different pre-vet and veterinary colleges every year. Although I'm not a licensed veterinary technician yet, NAVTA welcomes vet students too! With the constant advances & improvements in medicine, the seminars are a great way to "keep current"!
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AAZV (American Association of Zoo Veterinarians)
The AAZV objectives are to advance programs for preventive medicine, husbandry, and scientific research in the field of veterinary medicine dealing with captive and free-ranging wild animals; To provide a forum for the presentation and discussion of problems related to zoo/wildlife; To publish & distribute scientific information pertinent to the field of zoo/wildlife medicine; To enhance and uphold the professional ethics of veterinary medicine. Like NAVTA, the AAZV also holds seminars each year at various veterinary colleges across the country, and welcomes students with an interest in zoo/wildlife medicine!
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AAWV (American Association of Wildlife Veterinarians)
The AAWV objectives are the same as AAZV, as well as working with U.S. and foreign governmental agencies and wildlife resource interest groups concerning the importance of wildlife preventative medicine & disease. I joined for the same reason as AAZV... the seminars that are open to students who want to specialize in this field of veterinary medicine!
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ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
The oldest Animal Rights organization that has helped save & find homes for countless animals! Besides rescuing, treating, spay & neuter, they also investigate reported cruelty. Although it's impossible to get every stray dog & cat off the streets, ASPCA does give the animals that they rescue a chance to be adopted and have a happy & healthy life!
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Defenders of Wildlife
This organization works like those "Save the Children" kind... only it's animals you're sponsoring. I'm helping a baby wolf in Yellowstone Park!
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