It’s that time of year again when we all get to spend time with friends and family, share a big meal and think about the things we’re thankful for. What better way to celebrate this time than with an open mind and compassionate spread?

Some may consider turkey to be a holiday tradition, staple and centerpiece, but we’re not bound by traditions and one of the things we can be most thankful for is our ability to choose.

Aside from skipping the turkey for the holiday, there are plenty of other ways we can choose to bring compassion into the world every day simply by making positive changes that start with the decisions we make ourselves. We can choose what we eat and wear and how we choose to educate others on the values of empathy and respect that extends not only to animals, but to people as well.

It can be overwhelming to wonder how you can help and it can be easy to put the things you don’t see everyday out of your mind. Here’s a list of 10 simple things you can do all the time to be compassionate, in no particular order, adapted from the World Society for the Protection of Animals:

1. Get Loud with Your Cash

Every year, countless numbers of animals are subjected to painful procedures in safety testing for cosmetic and household products. The simplest thing to do is shop cruelty-free. Check for the Leaping Bunny logo on products from cosmetics to household cleaners. 

2. Avoid Businesses that Keep Animals in Captivity

The public display industry exacts a heavy physical and mental toll on wild animals. Captive animals are forced to live in artificial, stressful, cramped conditions, away from their family and friends. Pass on the zoos and marine parks.

3. Support International Recognition of the Importance of Animal Welfare

Billions of animals around the world are affected by humans, and rely on people to treat them with compassion. Sign the Universal Declaration of Animal Welfare addressed to the UN. Read more about this here. 

4. Make Humane Food Choices

Billions of farm animals are raised and killed for human consumption each year. A majority of these animals are subjected to various forms of cruelty behind the closed doors of factory farms, where animals are treated as little more than meat-making machines. If you don’t want to give up animal products, educate yourself on what food labels really mean. If you have access, visit farms in your area to see for yourself if you’re comfortable with the ways animals are raised.

5. Report Animal Cruelty

Despite the fact that animal cruelty is illegal in all 50 states, it remains shockingly prevalent in our society and often goes unreported. Animal cruelty comes in different forms from neglect to violence. If you suspect something, call your local animal control office or law enforcement.

6. Help Reduce Animal Overpopulation

Every year, between 6 and 8 million dogs and cats enter shelters in the U.S. Sadly, about half of these animals are euthanized simply because there are not enough homes for them. Adopt from a shelter and encourage friends and family to do the same. Of course, spay/neuter the new addition to your family and help by educating others on the effects of pet overpopulation.

7. Show Your Wild Neighbors Some Love

As urban development continues to destroy wild habitat, animals are forced to live in closer proximity to humans. You can do things from making sure wild animals can’t get in your house to creating habitats on your property. Read more here. 

8. Support Your Local Shelter or Rescue Organization

Unfortunately, there is no shortage of stories about the increased number of animals making their way to shelters these days. You can volunteer your time and talents, or donate items from food to towels and blankets. See if your shelter has a wish list to find out what they need. 

9. Don’t Wear Another Animals Coat

Every year, more than 50 million animals worldwide, including rabbits, foxes, mink and chinchillas, are violently killed in the name of “fashion.” Without customers, the industry will end. Check labels and avoid stores that sell fur products.

10. Get Political 

New legislation is an important part of protecting animals and propelling the animal movement forward. Politely contact your legislators about improving issues and animal welfare legislation. Write a letter to an editor at your local paper on an issue you care about.

Last, but certainly not least, reach out to someone who shares your cause. There are millions of people out there, and millions of people on Care2 who want to inspire change. You never know who you might connect with.

If you’re planning on skipping the turkey, check out the Bird-Free Feast and Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes for inspiration, or visit Farm Sanctuary’s website for tons of ideas for appetizers, side dishes, gravies and main courses.