In Canada, baby seals still face a cruel fate
Today I’m turning the blog over to my colleague Rebecca Aldworth, executive director of Humane Society International/Canada. For nearly two decades, Rebecca has been on the literal front lines of the fight to save animals, traveling to the ice floes of the Northwest Atlantic to . . .
Time, talent and National Volunteer Week: A reason to celebrate and participate
Every time we share news of a victory in our fight to protect animals, or positive trends in our cause, or growing momentum in a particular campaign, it’s also a story about the countless contributions of people working tirelessly behind the scenes to make these . . .
If you found an ‘orphaned’ wild animal, would you know how to do the right thing?
For many years, the modest stretch of forested land surrounding our office in Maryland has offered a refuge to wild animals whose habitat is shrinking around them. Year after year, our staff members excitedly share sightings of our wild neighbors: the mama fox who births . . .
Arizona becomes the latest state to ban the sale and production of eggs from caged chickens
In an important and encouraging advance for the protection of farm animals, Arizona has moved to ban cruel cages for egg-laying hens and ensure that all eggs produced and/or sold in the state are cage-free. The regulations promulgated by the Arizona Department of Agriculture guarantee . . .
New UK law takes landmark step, recognizing that animals have feelings
While many of our Humane Society International colleagues are responding to the crisis in Ukraine, they continue to advance the vital priority campaigns that are the main focus of their work. In the United Kingdom, that includes the recent passage of “sentience” legislation that requires . . .
Decades-long persistence pays off as proposed federal regulations will protect captive birds
When Humane Society of the United States investigators go out to take a close look at facilities that keep captive birds—roadside zoos, animal markets and others—they almost always return with the same dispiriting reports of dismal treatment and living conditions. Owls and hawks tightly chained . . .
One month into war, our animal relief effort expands
Each and every day in war-torn Ukraine, we see a poignant truth that we have seen at other times in other places. In their most desperate moments, at the risk of their own lives and without hesitation, those who love and care about animals will . . .
It’s time to move past the cruel, inhumane practice of testing cosmetics on animals
Back in the 1940s, when government scientists were asked to check cosmetics for safety, they turned to rabbits. Dr. J.H. Draize and colleagues at the Food and Drug Administration dropped chemicals into the animals’ eyes and applied them to their skin, then assigned scores to . . .
Supreme Court takes up pork industry’s attempt to overturn California’s Proposition 12
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear the pork industry’s lawsuit that attempts to overturn California’s Proposition 12. Special interest groups have been trying to stop the implementation of the historic ballot measure, which passed in 2018 with 63% of California voters in support. . . .
Our undercover investigation reveals why hippos desperately need federal protections under the Endangered Species Act
With their barrel shape, huge teeth and jaws that can open to almost 180 degrees, hippos are characteristically unique and one of the world’s most recognizable animals. Hippos are also a keystone species: As “ecosystem engineers,” their behavior helps shape and maintain landscapes and habitats . . .
Black bears get a spring reprieve in some states
Spring is a crucial time for black bears: After emerging from their dens following months in winter hibernation, many spend the first few weeks building up strength by eating mainly grasses and other plants. Mother bears are especially weak, having spent the last few months . . .
We’re back! Animal Care Expo celebrates its 30th anniversary in person
After more than two years of the pandemic testing our patience and resolve, forcing us to find new ways of working and socializing, and making us long for normal life, there are finally signs of spring—among them, our return to holding Animal Care Expo in . . .
