17．Many animal lovers would like to do more to help animals，but aren't sure where to start or feel like they just don't have the time．The good news is that there are many simple things you can do to help protect animals．
Think more before you decide
The decisions you make may go a long way toward stopping the killing of animals．Consider eating a vegetarian （素食者） diet．If you aren't ready to make this change，there are still things you can do．Do not buy animal products from companies that have illegal （违法的） practices．
Help speak the word out
Speaking the word out about the problems faced by animals can be as easy as putting up a notice on your car．Also，talk to your friends and family members about important problems of animals．Give some simple advice to a friend with a new pet about the serious pet over-population problem we're facing．Turn to some books on the subject if you are not so clear about the advice you give to your friend．
Write a letter
We've all heard the saying，"The pen is more powerful than the sword （宝剑）"．Put this idea to the protection of animals．If a company has practices or rules that are harmful to animals，write them a letter to let them know you are angry about them，and that you won't buy their products until they make some changes．Write letters to state and local legislators （立法者） to let them know how important it is that they support legislation that protects animals．Make them know that their actions will have a great effect on your vote．
Be more loving
If you're considering adding a dog or a cat to your family，think about getting one from a homeless-animal house rather than buying a pet．There are many wonderful animals just waiting for a home．By taking back an animal from there，you will be helping in the fight against pet over-population，as well as giving your money to those who look after poor animals．
Let your actions set an example
It may sound simple，but one of the best ways to help animals is to let your actions speak to the world．You should do the following things first by yourself：Treat all living animals respectfully．Care about your pets and look after them well．Avoid entertainment （娱乐） places that use animals to perform．Support laws that protect animals．All of these things set an example for others to follow．
Ways to protect（56）animals
| Think carefully before you make a（57）decision | ●Don't eat meat．
（58）Refuseto buy animal products from companies that have illegal practices． |
| Speak the word out | ●Put up an animal-protection（59）noticeon the car．
●Talk to your friends and family members and give advice．
●Get help from（60）advice\tips\suggestionsif necessary． |
| Write letters | ●Let those companies that are doing（61）harmto animals know about your anger．
●Let legislators know the（62）importanceof their support for legislation that protects animals． |
| Be more loving | ●Get a pet from a homeless-animal house instead of（63）buyinga new one．
●Give money to the people who look after poor animals． |
| Set an example for others | ●Treat all living animals with（64）respectand take good care of your pets．
●Avoid（65）goingto places where animals perform．
●Support laws which are good for animals． |
