Pet Bill of Rights

Pet Advocate contends that all animals have the right to humane, compassionate care that protects their physical, behavioral, social and psychological well-being. Animals should be able to “declare” the following rights:

• Right to a responsible caretaker who obeys local laws, makes sure we do not disturb others or public property, arranges for our appropriate care and who only acquires the number of pets that he or she can care for.


• Right to be regarded as an intelligent being with feelings and deserving of loving care.


• Right to display our feelings and expect them to be recognized and responded to appropriately.


• Right to be considered full members of our caretaker’s family.


• Right to protection from abuse whether it is physical, mental, or any other form.


• Right to an adequate and appropriate living environment that does not constrain us or depress our spirit.


• Right to clean and dry shelter that shields us from severe temperatures, weather, or otherwise unhealthy environmental conditions.


• Right to a nutritious diet consisting of species-appropriate food and clean water.


• Right to daily exercise and mental stimulation.


• Right to have regular opportunities to eliminate our bodily wastes.


• Right to responsible and regular healthcare performed by a qualified veterinarian, including annual checkups, proper vaccinations and sterilizations.


• Right to be shielded from unnecessary procedures, which are unrelated to our health or well-being (such as cropping ears or docking tails).


• Right to protection from pests such as fleas and ticks.


• Right to be regularly groomed as is appropriate for our specific breed.


• Right to humane training that does not inflict unnecessary distress or discomfort on us.


• Right to have behavioral issues addressed through compassionate training and expert advice.


• Right to have fun with toys, games, and playing with family members on a daily basis.


• Right to be comforted when we are frightened, have suffered a loss, or are suffering from health problems.


• Right to be protected from potentially stressful situations.


• Right to wear a collar and be identified so our families can find us should we ever lose our way home.


• Right to protect ourselves and our families under reasonable circumstances without risk of euthanasia.


• Right to live with dignity and to die with dignity when the time comes.