When you watch an endearing dog video or laugh at those funny cat memes, you’re probably not thinking about the darker side of human-animal interactions: animal cruelty. Yet the brutal exploitation of animals often hides in the shadows, masked by consumerism and entertainment. However, ignorance is not bliss; it’s complicity. Here are five actionable steps you can take to not only refrain from contributing to animal cruelty but also become a proactive advocate for animal rights.

1. Shop Mindfully

What You Buy Matters: The power of your wallet extends beyond mere transactions. Make sure you only purchase products free from animal testing and sourced from humane conditions. For example, look for the “Cruelty-Free” or “Leaping Bunny” certification on cosmetics. By making thoughtful shopping choices, you send a powerful message to corporations that profit from animal exploitation.

2. Invest Your Time Wisely

Be a Guardian, Not Just a Bystander: Time is the currency of life. Spend some of yours volunteering at animal shelters or fostering animals in need. Your involvement provides direct relief to animals and, over time, can lead to systemic change.

3. Shape the Next Generation

Educate to Empower: If you want long-lasting change, teach children about animal compassion and ethics. Correct inhumane behavior when you see it and report instances of animal abuse to authorities. Turning a blind eye is essentially enabling the abusers.

4. Make Entertainment Ethical

Choose Compassion over Cruelty: Resist the lure of events that exploit animals for profit, such as greyhound racing or animal circuses. Opt for entertainment options that don’t involve the mistreatment of animals, whether it’s a wildlife documentary or a trip to an ethical animal sanctuary.

5. Utilize Your Civic Power

Advocate and Agitate: Engage in legal channels to promote animal rights. Sign petitions, attend protests, or support animal welfare legislation. Mobilize your social network to amplify the message and bring about change on a larger scale.

Animal cruelty is a multi-faceted issue that won’t disappear overnight. Yet, with every informed choice and direct action, you chip away at the larger problem. Don’t let your empathy be restricted to online animal videos; let it spill over into your everyday life and become a force for positive change.