Fire Department Finds Good Use for Old Hoses: Turning Them Into Toys for Zoo Animals
Firemen are often depicted saving cats from trees, or even courageously pulling animals out of burning buildings. Turns out they also help animals in other ways, by making their play time more enjoyable. The Duluth Fire Department in Minnesota recently shared how it’s making use of decommissioned fire hoses: Repurposing them as enrichment toys for zoo animals! In a Facebook post, the department explained that hoses are often decommissioned due to issues like holes, reaching the end of their life expectancy, or failing an annual pressure...
UN Report: Habitat Loss and Overexploitation Are Driving Up Extinction Risk for Migratory Animals
Billions of animals migrate each year, including mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. As they travel vast distances in search of better feeding, more favored climate, or breeding grounds, they’re also benefitting the planet. These species help with nutrient transfer, seed dispersal, maintenance of ecosystems, and even climate change mitigation by storing carbon. A new report shows, though, that these animals – and their benefits – are at increasing risk. The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory...
Tax Relief Act of 2024 Could Save Thousands of American Children from Poverty
In a significant legislative move, the House of Representatives recently passed the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024. This comprehensive bill, now awaiting Senate approval, promises to bring about substantial changes in the tax landscape, directly impacting American families and the broader economy. Photo: PexelsThe Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024 was passed by the House of Representatives. Child Tax Credit: A Beacon of Hope At the core of the legislation is the enhancement of the Child Tax...
The Best 2024 Super Bowl Commercials Featuring Animals
The much-anticipated football game has come to an end and millions watched as the Kansas City Chiefs won in overtime. While many people tuned in to watch the two teams play their hearts out on the field, just as many came for the commercials. This year did not disappoint with funny, unique, and tear-jerking ads. Since we are huge animal lovers, the ones that featured any sort of animal were our favorites. Check out several of our favorites below and don’t forget to share your favorite commercial in the comments. Budweiser Budweiser...
10 Holistic Hairball Solutions for Cats
Dealing with hairballs is a normal part of cat parenthood, but your cat shouldn’t struggle with them all the time. These 10 holistic solutions will help you manage your cat’s hairballs naturally. Most cats get hairballs occasionally because of their fastidious grooming habits. However, if your cat is prone to hairballs, it could be related to a health issue, allergies, gut health or digestive problems, or even their diet. While it’s important to talk to your veterinarian if you suspect a problem, here are 10 holistic...
Maddie’s Weekly Roundup: New Camp Maddie, Candid Conversations and more!
Happy Monday! Below is a brief roundup of resources added over the past week. Registration for Camp Maddie: Behavior Edition is now open!Camp Maddie is back! Join us on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 and Wednesday, April 3, 2024 from 9AM-1PM PT (12PM-4PM ET) for a focus on dog behavior. The free, virtual event will consist of two half-days that will include presentations, short videos and question and answer sessions. At Camp Maddie: Behavior Edition, we’ll talk about… Learn More Dianne Prado kicks off the new season of Candid...
11 Mental Enrichment Ideas for Your Dog Playpen
A dog playpen can be a benefit to pet parents in many situations. They keep pups contained so they can’t get into trouble, and they can also be safe spaces where dogs can relax or even enjoy some stimulating play. If you’re looking to add more mental enrichment to your dog’s playpen time, here are 11 ideas. A dog playpen is an enclosed area that provides a safe and secure space for dogs to play, exercise, and relax. They help keep puppies and dogs in a designated area, preventing them from wandering into potentially unsafe...
Understanding Pancreatitis in Dogs – What You Should Know
Pancreatitis is a serious and painful disease that can profoundly impact your dog’s health and quality of life. Learn to recognize the symptoms and understand the causes — and find out how it can be treated using an integrative approach. Pancreatitis doesn’t just affect humans. It also occurs in dogs and causes painful inflammation in the pancreas. Any suspicion of this disease requires a visit to the vet — or in some cases, a trip to the closest emergency hospital. As a dog parent, you need to know the signs and...
From Steadfast Lizards to Devoted Primates: Nine Animals That Mate for Life
As we approach Valentine’s Day, many long-term couples may be reminiscing about decades of memories from the holiday. While not many animals live as long as humans, there are plenty of species that also spend their lives with the same mate. It may not be with the same romantic notions that we have (though there are some animals that show their “love” for each other in sweet ways), but even if it’s more about survival and the best chance of successfully raising offspring, their dedication is still admirable. To mark...
Honoring Black History Month
Feb 09, 2024 February is Black History Month and we’re celebrating by amplifying Black voices, celebrating Black pioneers in animal welfare, and exploring the ways our community is honoring this month. And we want our APA! community to join in with us on learning something new and honoring the deep and rich Black history so that we may continue to move toward a more equitable future. We’ll update this blog throughout the month so bookmark this page and make sure to check back in to see new ways you can participate in Black History...
