The recent closure of the Grove City Petland store marks a turning point in a decade-long debate over where Ohio pet stores source their animals. While Petland maintains that the decision to close had nothing to do with public pressure, many in Central Ohio see it as a win for animal advocates and consumers alike—a sign that the tide is shifting toward greater accountability and compassion in the pet industry.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time to shed light on the many forms of abuse that often go unseen. One such connection gaining long-overdue attention is the link between animal abuse and family violence.

In Wyandot County, compassion has a home — and it started in a garage.

Founded in 1985 by Dave and Lynda Balz, the Wyandot County Humane Society (WCHS) began as a simple effort to help stray and unwanted animals find safety and care. Forty years later, that small act of service has evolved into a multi-faceted organization that includes the HOPE (Helping Our Pets Everywhere) Clinic and the Wyandot County Equine Rescue, all working together to save lives of every species imaginable.

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.

Earlier this summer, the Friendship Animal Protective League (FAPL), with support from the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department, seized 239 birds connected to an illegal cockfighting operation in Sheffield Township, Ohio. This marks the fourth cockfighting-related seizure in Lorain County this year alone.