In a powerful new episode of The Animal Welfare Junction podcast, our very own Dr. G—Ohio Animal Advocates Board Member—dives deep into the chilling world of exotic animal ownership and the hard-fought efforts to protect captive primates.

The clock is ticking—and Ohio families, pets, and communities are depending on us to act.

Right now, Ohio Senate leaders are making critical decisions about what to include in the state budget. One dangerous amendment added by the House to HB 96, the biennial state budget bill, would gut the Ohio Housing Trust Fund (OHTF)—a vital source of state funding for affordable housing, emergency home repair, and homelessness prevention across all 88 counties.

In a landmark decision, the Ohio Supreme Court has clarified that all cats and dogs—whether they live indoors, outdoors, are owned, stray, or community animals—are protected under Ohio’s felony cruelty laws.

The case arose after a man was convicted of felony animal cruelty against a cat. His defense argued that because the animal was not “kept” by a person, it did not qualify for protection under the law. The Court rejected that argument—setting a powerful precedent for animal protection across Ohio.

We are thrilled to share that Dr. Alba Michelle Gonzalez-Monska — known to many as Dr. G — was honored with the Humane World for Animals Access to Care Visionary Award at this year's Animal Care EXPO!

We are thrilled to share that our Board President, Megan Moon, has been honored as the April 2025 recipient of the ‘Do Good for Dayton’ Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals who make significant positive impacts in the Miami Valley, inspiring others to contribute to the betterment of their communities.

What happens to primates after their lives in research labs, roadside zoos, or private homes come to an end? For many, the future is uncertain. But in Perry County, Ohio, a new future is being built — one that promises safety, healing, and a second chance.

Tessa Wilde founded For the Love of Primates in 2019 with a bold and compassionate mission: to create and support a sanctuary for primates retired from research, used in the entertainment industry, or previously kept as “pets.” The organization is grounded in the belief that, after spending their lives in human environments, these animals deserve a future filled with peace, safety, and compassionate care.

Nonhuman primates used in research at state facilities in Virginia had only one option after their time in the lab was over: euthanasia. Thanks to a new bill passed by the Virginia Senate, that may finally change. On February 4, 2025, the Senate approved SB 907, a bill that paves the way for retired research primates to live out the rest of their lives in sanctuaries rather than being euthanized.

This month, as our Humane Education Resource of the Month, we are thrilled to share author, Ingrid Newkirk’s (president and founder of PETA), Unlocking the Animal World: Incredible Facts and How Kids Can Be Superheroes for Animals.* It is a marvelous resource for educators and parents of young children. It is the perfect resource for teaching young people that all animals are unique, important individuals. It is an engaging and educational book designed to inspire young readers to both appreciate the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom and become active protectors of animals and their habitats. Unlocking the Animal World offers not only fascinating facts about animals, but offers practical conservation tips, and easy-to-understand ways for children to make a real difference in the world. 

Viewed as a nuisance species, coyote hunting and trapping is legal year round in Ohio. Oftentimes hunting is legalized and allowed under the concept of population control. Primarily this takes place through weekend long wildlife killing contests (WKC), where hundreds of coyotes are inhumanely killed for cash prizes. 

The connection between animal abuse and domestic violence is undeniable, yet often overlooked. Research consistently shows that those who harm animals are frequently also perpetrators of violence in human relationships. The two forms of abuse are inextricably linked, each feeding off the other, forming a cycle of control, fear, and manipulation. If we are to address domestic violence effectively, we must confront animal cruelty as a critical part of the problem.

Each year, the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) recognizes outstanding individuals who dedicate their careers to fighting animal cruelty and advocating for stronger protections for animals. As part of National Justice for Animals Week 2025 (February 24-28), we are thrilled to celebrate Dr. González as one of ALDF’s Top Animal Defenders!

Massachusetts has officially banned the practice of cat declawing, marking a significant victory for animal advocates who have long argued against the procedure’s inhumane nature. Governor Maura Healey signed the bill into law on January 10, 2025, making Massachusetts the third state in the U.S. to outlaw declawing, following New York and Maryland.