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Education in Action: OAA & OPOTA Training Series Recap
Ohio Animal Advocates (OAA) partnered with the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) to deliver a statewide training series focused on The Link Between Human and Animal Violence. Thanks to the support of the Animal Welfare Institute and Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.
New Safe Housing Grants Help Survivors and Their Pets Stay Together
For many survivors of domestic violence, leaving an abusive situation isn't as simple as walking away. A heartbreaking reality is that many delay seeking safety because they fear what will happen to their beloved pets if they leave them behind. To help remove that barrier, RedRover has awarded $473,085 in Safe Housing grants during its first funding round of 2026.
New ASPCA Grant Initiative Highlights the Importance of Expanding Access to Spay/Neuter Services
A new grant initiative from the ASPCA is shining a spotlight on an issue that animal welfare professionals have long recognized: increasing access to spay/neuter services is essential to reducing shelter overcrowding and improving outcomes for animals.
Introducing the Ohio Animal Advocates Giving Guide: More Ways to Make a Difference for Animals
Every act of generosity helps create a more compassionate future for animals. Whether you're making your first donation or looking for a lasting way to support animal protection, Ohio Animal Advocates is proud to introduce our new Giving Guide, a resource that highlights the many ways individuals, foundations, and businesses can invest in meaningful change.
New Volunteer Handbook Highlights Opportunities to Make a Difference for Animals Across Ohio
At Ohio Animal Advocates, we believe meaningful change happens when passionate people come together with a shared purpose. That's why we're excited to introduce our new Volunteer Handbook, designed to help prospective volunteers learn about our mission, explore available opportunities, and discover how they can make a lasting impact for animals across Ohio.
EPA Reaffirms Commitment to End Mammalian Animal Testing by 2035
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating mammalian animal testing by 2035, signaling continued support for the development and adoption of modern, non-animal testing methods.
New World Screwworm Confirmed in U.S. Dog: What Pet Owners Need to Know
After decades of successful eradication efforts, New World screwworm has returned to the United States. While the parasite primarily affects livestock, veterinarians recently confirmed the first canine case associated with the current outbreak, a reminder that pet owners should be aware of the signs while avoiding unnecessary panic.
Meet Erin Lawson: Ohio Animal Advocates' Operations Director
Ohio Animal Advocates is excited to introduce Erin Lawson, our Operations Director. After spending nearly a decade working directly with animals and the people who care for them, Erin has brought her experience to the policy side of animal welfare, where she's helping OAA expand its programs and advocacy efforts across Ohio.
Meet Our New John Glenn Intern: A Q&A with Maria Petkovic
Ohio Animal Advocates is excited to welcome Maria Petkovic as our new John Glenn College of Public Affairs intern! Before officially beginning her internship this fall through The Ohio State University's Ohio Government Internship Program. We sat down with Maria to learn more about her passion for animals, her interest in public policy, and what she's looking forward to during her time with OAA.
Q&A: Exploring Wildlife Fertility Control with Dr. Millie Schafer
For many, wildlife population management brings to mind hunting or culling. But around the world, researchers, wildlife managers, and advocates are increasingly exploring another option: fertility control. OAA spoke with Dr. Millie Schaefer, founder and executive director of Cincinnati Urban Deer Advocates, about the growing role of nonlethal wildlife management and what the future may hold.
New Return-to-Field Handbook Offers Practical Guidance for Shelters Helping Community Cats
Animal shelters across the country are continually seeking effective, humane ways to help cats while making the best use of limited resources. A newly updated Return-to-Field Handbook from Humane World for Animals, Neighborhood Cats, and Alley Cat Advocates provides a comprehensive roadmap for shelters looking to improve outcomes for community cats through return-to-field programs.
New Concerns Emerge About Enforcement of Ohio's Avery's Law
When Ohio lawmakers passed Avery's Law earlier this year, the legislation was widely praised for strengthening dangerous dog laws and increasing penalties when serious attacks occur. The bill was inspired by the tragic 2024 attack on 12-year-old Avery Russell, who suffered life-altering injuries after being attacked by two dogs during a playdate.
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— Nelson Mandela