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.

Bright, bold, and bursting with flavor, this month’s plant-based recipe is a true citrusy comfort dish! This Lemon Garlic Linguine is a simple yet elegant meal that comes together quickly with a handful of pantry staples. Silky linguine is tossed in a garlicky vegan butter sauce, finished with a fresh pop of lemon and topped with vegan parmesan, black pepper, and parsley. Perfect for weeknights or a cozy dinner in, this recipe proves that going plant-based doesn’t mean sacrificing taste.

On a bustling Saturday in Gainesville, Florida, the team at Operation Catnip pulled off an extraordinary feat: spaying and neutering 500 cats in a single day. The high-volume clinic, hosted at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, marked a major milestone—100,000 community cats fixed since the organization’s founding in 1998.

Once nearly wiped out from Ohio due to overtrapping in the 1800s, beavers are now reclaiming their role as essential architects of the state’s ecosystems. Known for their iconic dams and industrious nature, these resilient rodents are making a “dam” impressive comeback—and the environment is better for it.

Located in Marysville, Ohio, Sunrise Farm Sanctuary stands as a safe haven for farm animals once neglected, abused, or abandoned. Founded in 2001, the sanctuary has grown into a powerful voice for animal welfare thanks to the dedication of its founder, Mindy Mallett, and board members such as Sandy Horvath. Sandy has worked tirelessly to provide lifelong refuge to farmed and companion animals and wildlife, restoring their dignity and allowing them to live in peace.

The OAA recommended book of the month is The Cat Man of Aleppo by Karim Shamsi-Basha and Irene Latham. This book tells the true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, who, amid the Syrian Civil War, courageously offered safe haven to Aleppo’s abandoned cats. The story follows Alaa through the war-torn streets as he uses the little money he earns from his job as an ambulance driver to buy food and supplies for the cats.

We’re thrilled to announce that Ohio Animal Advocates has been awarded the Gold Seal of Transparency by Candid (formerly GuideStar)! This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to openness, accountability, and trust—and it’s a testament to YOU, our incredible community of supporters.

The bald eagle—America’s national bird and a symbol of strength and resilience—is thriving in the Buckeye State. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), there are now 964 confirmed active bald eagle nests across 87 of Ohio’s 88 counties, marking a 36% increase since the last statewide census in 2020.

We are excited to announce our new policy area on equines! Ohio Animal Advocates is dedicated to championing a higher standard of well-being for all equines. Our equine advocacy page aims to educate Ohioans on some of the most prevalent issues facing horses and other equines, including horse racing, soring and performance-enhancing drugs, horse slaughter, wild horse helicopter round-ups, and horse-drawn carriages. Read more about these topics here!

It seems every month we hear about horrific cruelty to animals in the media in Ohio this year. From an ESA cat freezing to death on Summit Lake to more than a hundred farm animals being hoarded by a veterinarian in Sandusky, animal cruelty must be stopped.