There are many ways you can keep your furry friend stay happy and healthy and help homeless, injured and abused animals get a second chance.

10 ways to keep your pet happy and healthy

1. Make sure you have two forms of pet identification - a tag on their collar and either a microchip or ear tattoo. Check with your friends to make sure their pets have proper ID.

2. If you are considering getting a new pet - cat, dog, rabbit, guinea pig, hamster or other animal - make the SPCA or other animal shelter your first adoption option. Don't buy pets from pet stores. 

3. Commit to walking your dog twice a day. Remember, this is good exercise for you too! If you don't have a dog, volunteer to walk dogs at your local shelter - the joy you give the animals will be returned a hundredfold.

4. Talk to friends or colleagues who have unsterilized animals about the importance of spaying or neutering their pets.

5. Make a donation to the BC SPCA. Help the Biscuit Fund or become a PAW (Pre-Authorized Withdrawal) Plan member. You can also donate your Canadian Tire money or HBC points when shopping at the Bay, Zellers and Home Outfitters - contact your local shelter for their account number.

6. Register to volunteer at your local branch of the BC SPCA or other animal shelter. We can't exist without our amazing volunteers.

7. Visit your local BC SPCA branch or other animal shelter regularly to donate at least one item on their wish list (towels, leashes, animal toys, etc.).

8. Learn more about the SPCA Certified food labelling program. Make humane food choices and encourage your friends to do the same.

9. Switch the toxic ethylene glycol antifreeze in your vehicle to pet-friendly propylene-based antifreeze.

10. Explore the BC SPCA website regularly to find out how you can get involved in campaigns to fight animal neglect and cruelty in your community.