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The Humane Exchange

Pets and Babies Living Together

Posted August 6, 2009

You may have been saddened and horrified last month, as I was, on hearing a news story about an infant in Kentucky who was hospitalized after being picked up and taken out of his crib by the family dog.

The Call of the Wild

Posted July 30, 2009

Have you ever wanted to own a snake, tiger, monkey or bear? For a growing percentage of the population, the call of the wild is irresistible. Tempted by the idea of having an exotic animal in the house -- and despite some state and local laws that prohibit owning certain types of animals -- some people are expanding the definition of “pet” to include creatures typically found only in nature or in zoos.

Does Michael Vick Deserve a Second Chance?

Posted July 21, 2009

Michael Vick is back in the news -- this time because his prison term has ended and it’s possible that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will reinstate Vick, allowing him to play again.

In the Doghouse Over Hotdogs

Posted July 16, 2009

American Humane recently opened our doors in Denver to more than 350 donors, members and other supporters interested in getting together and learning more about what we do. From touring our animal “Rescue Rig” to meeting one of our trained therapy dogs, our guests were treated to an informative and enjoyable afternoon.

A Little Encouragement Can Go a Long Way

Posted July 9, 2009

I was recently asked to give a speech on mentoring, which got me thinking about how just a few words of encouragement can change a young person’s life.

When Geese Become Gophers

Posted July 2, 2009

At a recent Colorado Municipal League meeting I attended, a discussion about funding for park projects took an unexpected turn when one woman stood up and asked, “Would it be possible to get a grant to gas the geese?”

No Safety Net for Kids Who ‘Age Out’ of the Foster Care System

Posted June 25, 2009

June marks a major milestone for 18-year-olds across the nation: graduation. Although my high school graduation is a more distant memory than I’d like to admit, I recall that it was a bittersweet time.

What Works for Children and Families in the Child Welfare System?

Posted June 18, 2009

I recently returned from American Humane’s Conference on Family Group Decision Making and Other Family Engagement Approaches.

Our Certified Animal Safety Representatives™ Aren’t Horsing Around

Posted June 11, 2009

Everyone loves the Budweiser Clydesdales -- and according to Danielle Macdonald Wolcott, who has been a Certified Animal Safety Representative in our Film & TV Unit for the past four years, these majestic and meticulously cared-for horses love everyone back.

Discover a Catalyst for a Better Life

Posted June 4, 2009

My 92-year-old aunt recently entered an assisted-living facility, where she encountered an unexpected resident: a cat. She has never thought of herself as a “cat person,” but you wouldn’t know it these days. The cat frequently visits her room and hops up on her bed to snuggle.

Help Us Shut Down Puppy Mills

Posted May 28, 2009

No matter how many puppy-mill seizure cases I hear about, the details always shock me. Dogs locked in tiny pens all day long with no water or food. Coats so matted and filthy you can barely tell what color or breed the poor animals are.

Are You -- and Your Pets -- Ready for Disaster Season?

Posted May 21, 2009

A hurricane is threatening to hit your community and you’ve been asked to evacuate. You figure you won’t be away for long, and decide to just leave some extra food and water out for your cat. Ten days later, you’re still waiting to return.

Recognizing Foster Parents -- and the Work That Still Remains

Posted May 14, 2009

May is National Foster Care Month, a time to honor foster parents by recognizing their tremendous generosity and commitment to helping at-risk children. These special caregivers offer invaluable love and support when abused or neglected kids have nowhere else to turn.

Honoring Kids Who Care

Posted May 7, 2009

Be Kind to Animals Week®, special-events/be-kind-to-animals-week/ which started on May 3 and continues through Saturday, is one of my favorite times.

Seeking a More Just Juvenile Justice System

Posted April 30, 2009

It broke my heart to learn recently that, according to the Equal Justice Initiative, the United States is the only country in the world that sentences 13- and 14-year-olds to life terms in adult prisons -- without the possibility of parole.