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The Humane Exchange

‘Marley & Me’ Delivers at the Box Office -- and Behind the Scenes

Posted January 8, 2009

At a recent screening of “Marley & Me,” I was searching for a tissue by the end of the movie. Although much of the film is humorous, it also hits home emotionally -- especially if you are someone who views pets as valued family members.

Who's Been Nice This Holiday Season? Donors.

Posted December 30, 2008

The holiday season doesn’t include a Donor Appreciation Day, but it should. This time of year I am always overwhelmed by the outpouring of compassion we see from people who find a way -- no matter how tight their budgets -- to help others.

Happy Holidays!

Posted December 25, 2008

There is no new post this week, but I’ll return the week of New Year’s. In the meantime, I’d like to wish you and yours the best this holiday season, and remind you to please remember American Humane in your year-end giving plans.

Overworked Agencies, Underserved Children

Posted December 18, 2008

We all have crazy days at work. You know the ones I’m talking about. For every email you answer, three more appear in your inbox. Each meeting runs over, making you late to the next one. You have a headache by 10 a.m., and can’t seem to find time for a bathroom break.

Since When Does Helping Animals Mean Hurting People?

Posted December 11, 2008

It pains me to say it, but firebombing a house -- with an entire family inside, including two young children -- is some people’s idea of helping animals. Earlier this year, a University of California researcher who uses mice in his work was allegedly targeted by animal activists.

Don't Let Hope Sink With the Economy

Posted December 4, 2008

I recently came across an old quote from Robert Kennedy that puts today’s economic turmoil in a different light. Kennedy questioned our propensity to judge our country’s worth solely by its gross national product (GNP). “What [GNP does] not reflect is the health of our children…or the joy of their play…or the beauty of our poetry,” he said

All Fur, No Fluff: ‘Pet Therapy’ Should Be Taken Seriously

Posted November 26, 2008

If, like me, you are one of the millions who has tuned into the Shiba Inu Puppy Web Cam, you know that a bunch of adorable puppies can always bring a smile to your face -- no matter how bad your day is going.

‘Rescuing the Family for the Child’

Posted November 20, 2008

Most of us have a strong gut reaction when we hear of a child being abused or neglected. Our instinct is often to save the child by taking him from his “unfit” parents, guardians or other caregivers. It’s an understandable response. Through the media -- which inevitably features the most shocking stories -- we are regularly told about parents and others whose inhumane acts confirm our worst fears.

When Serving Your Country Means Leaving Your Pet

Posted November 11, 2008

On Veterans Day last year, Bill Torgerson -- vice president of American Humane’s Animal Protection Division -- was in Iraq, where he served as a lieutenant colonel. I remember feeling terribly concerned for him. At the same time, it is an honor to know someone so committed to our country.

Nobody 'Ages Out' of the Need for Love and Support

Posted November 6, 2008

It was more than a year ago, but I still remember their stories. At a conference in 2007, I listened to a panel of five teenagers talk about “aging out” of the foster care system. One had lived in 11 different homes in just four years. Another recounted a history of sleeping in a closet -- the only place for her in a crowded foster home.

Pets Make Great Office Mates

Posted October 30, 2008

I look forward to the days when Chauncey is in the office. Chauncey is an adopted, mixed-breed dog with beautiful ginger-colored fur and a sweet disposition. He regularly comes to work with Marge, an IT guru at American Humane.

Seeing Bullying for What It Is

Posted October 23, 2008

“Kids will be kids.” “It’s just a phase.” “It’s part of growing up.” There’s no shortage of stock phrases we fall back on to excuse bullying, especially when our own children are perpetrators or victims.

'Grocery Store Moments'

Posted October 16, 2008

You’re in the grocery store and you see a parent “lose it” with a child. Maybe the parent’s patience has worn so thin she starts yelling, or even threatens to strike the child. You feel like you should do something, but you’re not sure what.

All Things Humane for 131 Years

Posted October 9, 2008

What’s the first thing you think of when you hear the word “humane”? If you’re like most people, your mind immediately jumps to your local humane society or animal shelter.

Don’t Buy That Doggie in the Window -- Go to Your Local Shelter

Posted October 2, 2008

I have a confession to make. Back in the mid 1980s, I decided to get a dog for my young daughter. I wanted an animal companion in the house and figured a dog would help teach responsibility and compassion. I researched breeds and chose one that was suitable for our lifestyle. So far, so good.