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Beaver Deceiver Saves Lives in Vermont
In Orange, Vermont, beavers have been given a chance to thrive thanks to an innovative flow device known as a “beaver deceiver.” Installed by Beaver Deceivers LLC and funded primarily by In Defense of Animals (IDA), the device allows beavers to remain in their natural habitat while also preventing flooding that can damage roads and culverts.
False Report Leads to Tragic Dog Shooting in Madison Township
On the morning of July 21, law enforcement officers responded to a false emergency call in Madison Township. The caller falsely claimed that a “grandma” had been shot in the kitchen of a home on the 3300 block of South Hamilton Road, near Hott Road.
Gahanna Teen Named Young Birder of the Year
A love for birds and the natural world has taken one Gahanna teen to national heights. Thirteen-year-old Killian Sullivan was recently honored with the American Birding Association’s 2025 Young Birder of the Year Award, the highest recognition for young birders across the country.
Driving Change for Pets and People: A Conversation with Claire of AWI
Claire Coughlin, Director of the Companion Animal Program at the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI), describes her position as her “unicorn job”, a perfect match of her passion and purpose. With a career spanning human services, support for abuse survivors, and animal welfare, Claire has long worked at the intersection of compassion for both people and pets. “A central part of my role is ensuring that policies and programs translate into real outcomes,” Claire shared. “The work we do at AWI isn’t abstract; it’s about creating tools and resources that truly help people and animals in crisis.”
Ohio Attorney General Sues Former Service Dog Charity
On July 29, 2025, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced that his office has filed a lawsuit against a now-defunct nonprofit and its former executive director, alleging that more than $25,000 in charitable donations were misused for personal expenses.
The PUPP Act: Keeping Families and Pets Together
Hundreds of thousands of Americans experience homelessness every year. For many, their greatest source of comfort and unconditional love is their pet. Sadly, too many unhoused individuals face a heartbreaking choice: seek shelter and give up their beloved companion—or remain on the streets together.
PETA Sues American Kennel Club Over Breed Standards
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has filed a lawsuit against the American Kennel Club, Inc. (AKC) in the Supreme Court for the State of New York, County of New York.
According to PETA’s complaint, the AKC’s Official Breed Standards for several popular breeds—including the Bulldog, French Bulldog, Pug, Dachshund, and Chinese Shar-Pei—“provide blueprints for the breeding of deformed, unhealthy dogs and thus severely impede canine health and well-being.”
Wooster Man Sentenced to Probation After Killing 17 Cats
A Wooster man who admitted to killing 17 cats using a makeshift gas chamber has been sentenced to just six months of probation. On Monday, he pleaded guilty to five counts of cruelty to companion animals and one count of petty theft.
Board President Megan Moon on Service & Strategy
As the board president of OAA's governing board, Megan Moon is responsible for overseeing the board’s functions, ensuring that the nonprofit fulfills its mission, and supporting the executive director. In addition to her work with Ohio Animal Advocates, Megan serves her local community through her work with Waste-Free Dayton, Kettering Volunteer Advisory Council, NAMIWalks, and more.
Ohio Man Guilty in Dogfighting Case
An Ohio man has admitted to running a dogfighting operation while also engaging in drug trafficking — a disturbing reminder of the cruelty and crime tied to animal fighting ventures.
OAA Book of the Month: Two Frisky Kittens
The OAA recommended book of the month is Two Frisky Kittens: How to Count High Real Quick by Robin Lapre! This playful yet impactful children’s book highlights the real-life consequences of cat homelessness, environmental impact, and shelter overcrowding — all told through catchy rhymes and heartfelt illustrations.
“We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.”
— Nelson Mandela
