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Q&A with Pets in Need of Cincinnati Executive Director Pam McKie: Bridging Human Services and Animal Welfare
For more than 40 years, Pam McKie worked in human services, helping vulnerable children, families, and communities access the support they needed to thrive. Today, she brings that same passion and expertise to animal welfare as Executive Director of Pets in Need of Cincinnati, a nonprofit veterinary clinic dedicated to serving low-income and vulnerable pet owners.
Q&A with Ohio Animal Advocates CFO Deb Molinaro: Service, Compassion, and a Heart for Animals
Ohio Animal Advocates is fortunate to have dedicated supporters who contribute not only their expertise, but also their time, passion, and generosity. One of those supporters is Deb Molinaro, OAA's Chief Financial Officer. Since joining the organization in early 2024, Deb has helped guide OAA's financial operations while also supporting the organization's mission through personal donations and volunteer service. We recently sat down with Deb to learn more about her missionary work in Peru, her commitment to animal advocacy, and the beloved dog who inspired her passion for helping animals.
The Link Between Animal Abuse and Human Violence Continues to Gain Attention Worldwide
For decades, animal advocates, social workers, law enforcement professionals, veterinarians, and domestic violence experts have recognized an important pattern: violence toward animals often does not occur in isolation.
OAA Book of the Month: Pets for Profit: An Insider’s Account of How Private Equity Ruined Veterinary Care
When a beloved animal becomes sick or injured, most people expect veterinary decisions to be guided by medical expertise, compassion, and the best interests of the patient. But what happens when financial investors increasingly shape the veterinary industry? That is the central question explored in Pets for Profit: An Insider's Account of How Private Equity Ruined Veterinary Care
Humane Ways to Keep Cats Out of Gardens and Yards
Community cats are a part of many neighborhoods, and while some people enjoy seeing them stroll through the yard, others may be less enthusiastic. One of the most common complaints about free-roaming cats is their tendency to dig in gardens, lounge in flower beds, or use outdoor spaces as litter boxes.
Wales and Scotland Move to End Greyhound Racing
Animal advocates across the United Kingdom are celebrating significant progress for greyhound welfare after lawmakers in both Wales and Scotland voted to ban greyhound racing. The decisions mark a major shift in how governments are evaluating the welfare impacts of animal-based entertainment and reflect growing concerns about the risks greyhounds face in the racing industry.
American Heart Association Recommends Shifting from Meat to Legumes and Nuts for Protein
The American Heart Association (AHA) has released updated dietary guidance encouraging Americans to eat more plant-based foods and reduce their reliance on animal products as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle.
The new scientific statement, 2026 Dietary Guidance to Improve Cardiovascular Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association, highlights growing evidence that diets rich in plant-based foods can significantly improve cardiovascular health outcomes.
Housing Rights for People With Emotional Support Animals are Changing
A recent policy shift from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has created confusion and concern for many people who rely on emotional support animals (ESAs) as part of their disability accommodations.
While HUD has announced changes to how it handles certain ESA-related complaints under the federal Fair Housing Act, it is important to understand that state and local protections for people with disabilities and emotional support animals may still remain fully intact.
OAA Plant-Based Recipe of the Month: Turkish Lentil Salad with Sweet Peppers and Herbs
There’s something deeply satisfying about a recipe that feels both nourishing and vibrant at the same time. This lentil salad is packed with fresh herbs, warming spices, roasted peppers, and a tangy dressing that only gets better as it sits. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but versatile enough to pair with grilled vegetables or warm pita.
How Vaccine Hesitancy in Humans is Affecting Companion Animals
Vaccines have become one of the most emotionally charged public health conversations of the past decade. What was once primarily a debate surrounding human medicine has now spilled into the world of companion animals and according to recent research, the consequences could be devastating for both dogs and people.
In a recent article titled “Vaccine Hesitancy Now Affects Dogs, Putting Humans at Risk,” psychologist and canine researcher Stanley Coren explores the growing number of pet owners choosing not to vaccinate their dogs. The article cites studies showing that approximately 22 percent of dog owners in the United States are now considered vaccine hesitant.
2026 Charitable Gift Income Tax Deduction for Non-Itemizers
Starting in 2026, taxpayers who use the standard deduction can claim an income tax deduction for gifts to 501(c)(3) charitable organizations. You no longer need to be part of the 10% of taxpayers who itemize income tax deductions to take advantage of your charitable gifts on your income tax returns. If you are one of the roughly 90% of taxpayers who use the standard deduction, you can claim an additional “above-the-line” deduction for your charitable contributions. All taxpayers can lower their income tax bill by supporting their favorite charities.
Etsy Announces Ban on Fur Sales in New Policy Update
In a significant victory for animal protection advocates, has announced it will ban the sale of animal fur products across its platform beginning August 11, 2026.
The updated policy prohibits the sale of products made from animals killed primarily for their pelts, including raw pelts, fur garments, and fur accessories made from animals such as mink, fox, and rabbit — regardless of whether the items are new or vintage.
“We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.”
— Nelson Mandela