Ohio is facing its most severe outbreak of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) to date, with nearly 7,000 deer confirmed sick or dead across 22 counties, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

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.

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.

As the air turns crisp and Ohio’s farmers’ markets overflow with autumn produce, there’s no better time to bring seasonal, plant-forward meals to your table. Today we’re sharing a cozy recipe for Roasted Fall Vegetables with Pecan Topping—a simple, flavorful dish that highlights the best of the season while also aligning with a compassionate lifestyle that benefits both people and animals.

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.