Claire Coughlin, Director of the Companion Animal Program at the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI), describes her position as her “unicorn job”, a perfect match of her passion and purpose. With a career spanning human services, support for abuse survivors, and animal welfare, Claire has long worked at the intersection of compassion for both people and pets. “A central part of my role is ensuring that policies and programs translate into real outcomes,” Claire shared. “The work we do at AWI isn’t abstract; it’s about creating tools and resources that truly help people and animals in crisis.”

On July 29, 2025, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced that his office has filed a lawsuit against a now-defunct nonprofit and its former executive director, alleging that more than $25,000 in charitable donations were misused for personal expenses.

Hundreds of thousands of Americans experience homelessness every year. For many, their greatest source of comfort and unconditional love is their pet. Sadly, too many unhoused individuals face a heartbreaking choice: seek shelter and give up their beloved companion—or remain on the streets together.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has filed a lawsuit against the American Kennel Club, Inc. (AKC) in the Supreme Court for the State of New York, County of New York.

According to PETA’s complaint, the AKC’s Official Breed Standards for several popular breeds—including the Bulldog, French Bulldog, Pug, Dachshund, and Chinese Shar-Pei—“provide blueprints for the breeding of deformed, unhealthy dogs and thus severely impede canine health and well-being.”

A Wooster man who admitted to killing 17 cats using a makeshift gas chamber has been sentenced to just six months of probation. On Monday, he pleaded guilty to five counts of cruelty to companion animals and one count of petty theft.

As the board president of OAA's governing board, Megan Moon is responsible for overseeing the board’s functions, ensuring that the nonprofit fulfills its mission, and supporting the executive director. In addition to her work with Ohio Animal Advocates, Megan serves her local community through her work with Waste-Free Dayton, Kettering Volunteer Advisory Council, NAMIWalks, and more.

An Ohio man has admitted to running a dogfighting operation while also engaging in drug trafficking — a disturbing reminder of the cruelty and crime tied to animal fighting ventures.

The OAA recommended book of the month is Two Frisky Kittens: How to Count High Real Quick by Robin Lapre! This playful yet impactful children’s book highlights the real-life consequences of cat homelessness, environmental impact, and shelter overcrowding — all told through catchy rhymes and heartfelt illustrations.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) has continuously failed to control the abusive puppy mill industry in Ohio and to hold the abusers accountable. Commercial dog breeders disregard the health of their dogs to keep costs low and maximize their profits. According to Humane World for Animals, most puppies sold in pet stores and through online retailers are born in puppy mills. Additionally, the 2025 Horrible Hundred report ranks Ohio as the second worst state in the nation regarding the care of dogs in puppy mills, with 16 of the nation's worst puppy mills located in our state.

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) is now accepting applications for the FY 2025 Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance for Victims of Domestic Violence Program. This competitive grant offers up to $500,000 per award to help create or expand pet-friendly housing for survivors of domestic violence.

When survivors of domestic violence or individuals experiencing homelessness are forced to flee unsafe or unstable conditions, they often face a heartbreaking choice: seek safety, or stay with their beloved pets. For many, that bond is too strong to break — and unfortunately, many shelters aren't equipped to house animals alongside people. But that’s changing, thanks to lifesaving initiatives like RedRover’s Safe Housing program.

Losing a pet is never easy. Whether they were by your side for one year or fifteen, their absence leaves an undeniable void. Pets are family — companions, protectors, best friends, and for many, a source of unconditional love. Grief after the death of a beloved animal is natural and deeply personal, and there's no "right" way to process that pain.