The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) has continuously failed to control the abusive puppy mill industry in Ohio and to hold the abusers accountable. Commercial dog breeders disregard the health of their dogs to keep costs low and maximize their profits. According to Humane World for Animals, most puppies sold in pet stores and through online retailers are born in puppy mills. Additionally, the 2025 Horrible Hundred report ranks Ohio as the second worst state in the nation regarding the care of dogs in puppy mills, with 16 of the nation's worst puppy mills located in our state.

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) is now accepting applications for the FY 2025 Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance for Victims of Domestic Violence Program. This competitive grant offers up to $500,000 per award to help create or expand pet-friendly housing for survivors of domestic violence.

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.

Shelley Lieberman has built a life around a simple but powerful idea: when you care deeply about something, that’s where your work should begin. That mindset has guided her journey as a passionate advocate for both animals and the people who love them. As a longtime board member of Ohio Animal Advocates (OAA), Shelley has helped lead efforts that connect the dots between animal welfare, domestic violence, and homelessness.

This year’s Spring Fling was filled with sunshine, smiles, and stories that remind us why we do what we do. Ohio Animal Advocates was thrilled to visit Sunrise Sanctuary and meet some of their incredible residents — each with their own journey of resilience, love, and second chances.

Two animals who captured everyone’s hearts were Trevor the turkey and Daisy the blind mini horse.

At Ohio Animal Advocates, we’ve long believed in the powerful bond between humans and animals—and now, science is proving what pet lovers have always known in their hearts: animals don’t just make life sweeter, they help us heal.

A recent article by Ed Boks, The Healing Power of Paws and Whiskers, dives deep into the growing body of research showing just how profoundly companion animals impact human health—emotionally, mentally, and physically.

Did you know that owning a pet can cost between $1,000 and $5,000 annually? For many pet owners, these costs can be overwhelming, especially during tough economic times. At OAA, we believe that no one should have to choose between their financial well-being and providing proper care for their beloved pets. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive directory of statewide resources to help pet owners access affordable and accessible care.

The Animals & Society Institute (ASI) is excited to invite you to join them in celebrating Human-Animal Relationship Awareness Week (#HARAWeek) on November 11-17, 2024!