Laura Porter, popularly known as Howie the Crab’s mom, is using her significant social media presence (over 1 million followers on TikTok and Instagram) to advocate against the harmful practice of setting pets free in the wild.
She emphasizes that this act does not only put the pet at risk but also endangers local wildlife by introducing invasive species and potentially spreading zoonotic diseases. Porter argues that house pets are not equipped to survive in the wild, and abandoning them equates to a death sentence.
Porter is pushing for a change in community guidelines on social media platforms to discourage the glorification of pet dumping. She also criticizes films that depict animals happily returning to the wild, arguing that they send the wrong message.
Beyond advocating for responsible pet ownership, Porter also champions humane treatment for crabs and other crustaceans, condemning practices like boiling them alive. Her advocacy work has been met with supportive responses.
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