If you’re looking for a fun, meaningful, and educational resource to introduce children to the world of animals, kindness, and responsible pet care, Maddie’s® Tail Wag is a wonderful place to start. Created by Maddie’s Fund and beautifully illustrated by Dr. Laurie Peek, this two-part activity and coloring series brings humane education to life for kids ages 6 and under as well as children ages 7–10.

As winter settles in across Ohio, it’s more important than ever to ensure our community cats have warm, safe places to survive the cold months. Outdoor cats face harsh winds, freezing temperatures, and snow, making reliable shelter, food, and water essential. This updated winter guide features expert insights from Riggi Rescue, generously shared by Chris Riggi, founder of Riggi Rescue and a valued member of the OAA Board of Directors.

This Giving Tuesday, your compassion can go three times as far for animals across Ohio. Thanks to a generous sponsor, every dollar donated by December 2 will be matched with two additional dollars, up to $22,500. That means your $25 gift becomes $75—and your impact reaches even further to protect, educate, and empower.

At Ohio Animal Advocates, we believe that real change starts at the community level. One of the most effective ways to reduce overpopulation, prevent suffering, and keep families and pets together is through accessible, affordable spay/neuter programs. A recent comparison shows just how impactful spay/neuter can be.

In the glow of Ohio’s summer nights, the flicker of fireflies is a childhood memory many of us cherish. But in recent years, their sparkle has been fading. Across Ohio and around the world, firefly populations are on the decline, with habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution threatening their survival.

What began as a routine water safety trip on the Cuyahoga River quickly turned into a story of courage, compassion, and second chances.

On Wednesday morning, city staff and water crews set out for an educational trip. But the lesson that day wasn’t just about safety—it was about humanity. Crew member Bill Bratton spotted something unusual in the water: a small dog wedged against a steel piling, soaked, shivering, and struggling to survive.

Ohio has the chance to join a growing movement to protect cats from one of the most painful and unnecessary surgeries still being performed: declawing. Senate Bill 252 (S.B. 252) would make it illegal to declaw cats in Ohio, except in rare cases where it is medically necessary for the animal’s health.

The Ashtabula County Animal Protective League (ACAPL) is facing one of its most heartbreaking and overwhelming rescues to date. Earlier this month, a tip about inhumane conditions led to the removal of 72 cats and three dogs from two homes deemed “biohazards” by authorities.

The community of Canton, Ohio, is reeling after investigators uncovered a disturbing scene inside a home on Wertz Avenue. Following a tip from an animal rescue group, authorities executed a search warrant and discovered over 250 living rats, 100 deceased rats, dogs, turtles, and birds—all living among piles of filth, feces, and urine. Even more shocking, a box containing human bones was found inside.

Last month, Mexico City revised their civil code to elevate animal’s legal status from property to sentient beings. This seemingly small change has massive implications for our furry friends. Under the new law, every person has the obligation to respect the lives of animals and ensure their care. This means that they are no longer considered “things,” but living, breathing beings with both basic needs and loving care. 

In a groundbreaking shift, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has announced plans to phase out extramural grant funding for experiments involving dogs and cats. This decision comes after years of advocacy from animal welfare groups, including the White Coat Waste Project, and marks a major step toward more humane science.

The tragic death of Leonidas, a dog from Warren, Ohio, is another painful reminder of why stronger protections for animals are urgently needed.