Social media has changed the way we live. It has shrunk our world and distance has become less of an issue. The speed with which we share information, opinions, ideas, content, and even images have helped many humans conquer some of life’s troubles.
Social networking has been a boon to animals too. Because of social media posts about mercy killing, pet surrenders, and stories of abuse, many people have become more aware of the sorry state of abandoned pets and stray animals. With this awareness comes compassion for unwanted animals. Inevitably, this deep compassion would fan the flames of an innate desire to help.
What has social media done to help animal adoption gain the traction it needs?
Facilitates sharing and educating
Animal shelters, sanctuaries, foundations, and other non-profit groups have been spreading the importance of adopting animals as against buying from pet stores and puppy mills. And without a doubt, social media has been an indispensable tool for sharing and educating people about this noble cause.
Elicits positive reaction
There’s a wealth of information too on the web about companion animals available for adoption. Because of social media, images of these adorable animals may reach hundreds of people with just a single click. When people see a clear photo of a dog or a cat that is up for adoption, even if they don’t sign up, the possibility of sharing that image and garnering positive reaction is so immense.
Stirs the emotions
Do you know that the human brain can fast absorb an image compared with a simple text? In social media, animals have found a perfect venue to tell their story. It has become their voice. A vivid photo of an unwanted animal posted on a website can deliver the heart of their story. It may even overshadow an intriguing caption underneath it. Images can stir emotions, good or bad. A Facebook photo of a homeless, scrawny cat scavenging for food can be depressing. On the other hand, an image of a healthy dog happily playing with his new family can be heartwarming.
Exposes real and inspiring stories
Social media has helped animal adoption gain more traction. Websites devoted to animal welfare have a collection of interesting blogs about successful adoptions as well as reunions and rescues. People who aren’t necessarily animal lovers will find it hard to resist a great story with a happily ever after ending. It is uplifting to read about heartwarming, true-to-life adoption stories. Two dogs on a shelter’s kill-list are spared because of a couple’s compassion, a senior German shepherd finds permanent solace in a cop’s home, or an abandoned dog and her litter get rescued and adopted amid stormy weather. Thanks to social media, real stories like these inspire people to follow suit and adopt a pet.
Provides a venue to promote events
A schedule of local events featuring dogs, cats, and other adoptable pets can abound in all forms of social media. Whether it be a fair or a fundraising event, national and local groups use Facebook and Twitter to announce their plan of activities, where to buy online tickets, who to contact, and other related info. Many of these organizations aim to help raise awareness about animal adoption and the benefit it presents to both humans and animals. And true enough, they have contributed well to the attainment of these goals.
