One U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Daniel, is kicking off the new year with a new service dog! Daniel bravely served our country from 2002 to 2007 and was deployed three times to Iraq. Since returning home, he has struggled with feelings of anxiety, and he reached out to American Humane for help.

Although research shows that specially trained PTS service dogs can reduce stress and anxiety levels, mitigate depression, ease social reintegration, provide comfort and restore confidence in affected veterans, there are many obstacles standing in the way of veterans in need of service dogs, including long waiting lists and exorbitant costs.

American Humane saw an opportunity to harness the healing power of the human-animal bond to help veterans. Through our Pups4Patriots program, we pair dogs in search of forever homes with veterans in need. The two are trained together at no cost to the veteran.

It is through this lifesaving program that Daniel came to find Ruby – his own saving grace. The two recently graduated and we are thrilled for them to begin their new life together as we kick off the new year.

Daniel noted the following:

Ruby has been a blessing to me and my family. Since she and I met, I felt a strong connection with her. I have been able to attend a few events that I otherwise never would have gone to. Just being able to reach down and touch her when I am feeling distant or anxious is very grounding and brings me back to the present. She will stand behind me in stores and lean against me when I am feeling anxious. Her calm presence is exactly what I needed in my life. She goes with me everywhere I go and our bond grows stronger by the day. Thank you, American Humane, for providing me with this amazing dog. She fits with my family excellently.

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Betty said her parents instilled in her a compassion for all creatures great and small, and she even aspired to become a forest ranger or zookeeper before going to Hollywood. And although Betty, known for her sass and charm, became a world-renowned actress with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, her lifelong love of animals was no act.

Betty volunteered her passionate service as a member of American Humane’s board of directors, supported our “No Animals Were Harmed®” program protecting animals in film and television, lent her services to our fundraising activities, acted as a judge and presenter for the nationally televised American Humane Hero Dog Awards, and served as the chair of our now 106-year-old nationwide “Be Kind to Animals Week®,” the most successful humane education campaign and the oldest commemorative week in U.S. history.

Betty reflected our core values of compassion, caring and hope, which is why we bestowed upon her our highest honor, the National Humanitarian Medal. She has always been a one-of-a-kind phenomenon, and we are honored to have known and worked with her during so much of her truly remarkable life.

Dr. Robin Ganzert, our CEO and president, was featured on ABC World News Tonight with David Muir and Good Morning America, discussing how we can give Betty the legacy she deserves in honor of her upcoming birthday on January 17th.

“We have seen such an uptick in donations all due to Betty White. Betty White would be smiling from heaven as she thinks about the Betty White Challenge on her birthday,” said Dr. Ganzert on Good Morning America.

We hope you will keep Betty in your heart by joining the #BettyWhiteChallenge and making a donation in her name. Together, we can make the world a kinder, better place for all animals in her honor.

Thank you, Betty, for inspiring us every day.

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During the past year, we saved, sheltered, fed and protected nearly one billion animals, rescuing and caring for frightened pets caught in the fury of Hurricane Ida and the horrific California wildfires; delivering 1,000,000 meals as well as critically needed supplies and lifesaving medicines to abandoned shelter animals during the pandemic; protecting 400,000 rare and endangered species around the world; helping to ensure better lives for hundreds of millions of farm animals; and, helping our military heroes, both two-legged and four-legged, by bringing home retired war dogs and providing veterans with free, life-changing service dogs.

Looking forward, we are excited to share our newest program – the American Humane Sanctuary! The Sanctuary is a transformational rescue retreat where those that are broken in spirit can find hope and a second chance at life. This remarkable refuge will provide animals with a safe haven and veterans with a loving, secure environment where they can meet and train with their new service dog. The American Humane Sanctuary is a new model in the shelter field and will inspire all who visit to deepen their relationship with animals and become steadfast advocates for the humane movement.

2021 followed one of the most challenging and unsettling times in our country’s history, but American Humane continued to lead the charge to help animals in need across the globe. We did not let uncertainty hinder our efforts to provide a light in an otherwise bleak time, and we will continue to provide hope and healing to our best friends in 2022 and beyond.

But we couldn’t do any of this lifesaving work without you, so thank you. Please share this video to help continue our legacy of love so that we can help more animals whenever and wherever they are in need.

The post A Look Back at What we Accomplished in 2021 appeared first on American Humane.

Unfortunately, these courageous K-9s usually become separated from their human counterparts, who cared for and fought alongside them on the battlefield.

American Humane is committed to reuniting retired military dogs with their former handlers. After everything these battle buddies have sacrificed for our country, it’s the very least we can do in return. This year, seven retired military hero dogs are, first the first time ever, home for the holidays!

MWD Anjin, MWD Bogi, MWD Chickel, MWD Irk, MWD Luna, MWD Popeye and MWD Xxanthe will ring in the new year with the person they love best – their former handler and forever best friend. And they will never spend a holiday alone again.

There’s nothing that can replace the feeling of having your best friend by your side, and all military working dogs deserve to have their dreams come true.

With your help, we can grant more holiday wishes in 2022! Make a gift at www.AmericanHumane.org/donate to bring more of our brave K-9 heroes home where they belong.

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Leo, just eight weeks old, was facing a long journey of recovery. He had a left-sided tibiotarsal fracture-luxation, which is essentially a fractured ankle, and had lost part of his tail. He was also infested with fleas and hookworms. Fortunately, the surgeon did not recommend surgery, but instead lots of love and personalized care.

Leo was taken to the American Humane Sanctuary, a transformational rescue retreat where those that are broken in spirit can find hope and a second chance at life. At the Sanctuary, Leo received around-the-clock care and was able to heal. Despite the rough start to his young life, he has grown into a rambunctious, happy and healthy five-month-old kitten.

Affectionately known as “Lucky Leo,” his injuries haven’t slowed him down at all! As his name implies, Leo has the heart of a lion and is a true survivor. He loves to play ball and is an opinionated boy who will always tell you what’s on his mind. He’ll also curl up in your lap for cuddles and purrs. A spunky, curious kitten with lots of love to give, Leo was finally ready for a home to call his own.

We are thrilled that Leo’s luck continued, and he found his own purrrfect forever family just in time for the holidays! Leo will be doted upon and loved for the rest of his days.

Lucky Leo was the first animal to be adopted from the American Humane Sanctuary, and his story represents our mission for the Sanctuary – to be a refuge of hope and healing for all.

The post Lucky Leo Finds Hope and Healing at the American Humane Sanctuary appeared first on American Humane.

During the cold months of this season, it’s especially important to keep your pets’ safety in mind. It’s a common misconception that dogs and cats are more resistant than people to cold weather because of their fur. Like people, however, animals are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. And just like it affects us, exposure to winter’s dry, cold air and chilly rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin for animals too. Additionally, many pets become lost in the winter because snow and ice can hide recognizable scents that might normally help your pet find his/her way back home.

To help you prioritize your pets’ safety, we provide some simple tips to ensure a humane winter.

Prepare for Cold Weather

• Plan ahead and pay attention to cold-weather warnings.
• Keep your pet preparedness kit well-stocked and ready — in a winter storm, you may not be able to leave your home for several days.
• Leave your pets’ coats a little longer in the winter to provide as much warmth as possible. That summer “short cut” from your groomer should be avoided during cold weather. If you have short-haired breeds, consider getting them a coat or sweater that covers them from neck to tail and around the abdomen

Winter Pet Care

• When you bathe your dogs in cold weather, make sure they are completely dry before taking them outside for a romp or walk.
• When walking your dogs during bad weather, keep them on a leash. It’s easier for a dog to become lost in winter storm conditions and more dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season. (And don’t forget to microchip and put current ID tags on your dogs and cats!)
• Leash your pets if you have frozen ponds, lakes or rivers nearby, as loose pets can break through ice and quickly succumb to hypothermia before trained ice-rescue personnel can arrive. Never try an ice rescue of a pet yourself – leave that to trained professionals.
• When you are working on housebreaking your new puppy, remember that puppies are more susceptible to cold than are adult dogs. In cold conditions or bad weather, you may need to opt for paper training your new pet rather than taking the pup outside.
• Keep your pets inside, both during the day and night. Just because they have fur doesn’t mean they can withstand cold temperatures.
• If dogs must be left outside for any period of time, they should have a draft-free shelter large enough to stand and turn around in, yet small enough to retain body heat. Use a layer of straw or other bedding material to help insulate them against the cold. Make sure the entrance to the shelter faces away from the direction of incoming wind and snow.
• Keep your cats indoors. Cats can freeze in cold weather without shelter. Sometimes cats left outdoors in cold weather seek shelter and heat under the hoods of automobiles and are injured or killed when the ignition is turned on. Banging loudly on the hood of your car a few times before starting the engine will help avoid a tragic situation. (This is true for wild animals in cold weather as well.)

Precautions for Outdoor Pets

• Remember that staying warm requires extra calories. Outdoor animals typically need more calories in the winter, so feed them accordingly when the temperature drops. Talk to your veterinarian for advice on proper diet.
• Watch your pet’s outside fresh-water bowl. If it is not heated, you may need to refresh it more often as it could freeze in cold weather.
• Salt and de-icers: Many pets like to go outside to romp and stomp in the snow, but people use powerful salt and chemicals on their sidewalks to combat ice buildup. Thoroughly clean your pets’ paws, legs and abdomen after they have been outside, to prevent ingestion of toxic substances and to prevent their pads from becoming dry and irritated. Signs of toxic ingestion include excessive drooling, vomiting and depression.
• Ice and snow: When you let your pets in from a walk or a romp outside, make sure to wipe their paws and undersides — get those ice balls off as soon as possible, as they can cause frostbite. After being outside, check your pets’ paws, ears and tail for frostbite. Frostbitten skin usually appears pale or gray and can be treated by wrapping the area in a dry towel to gradually warm the area. Check with your veterinarian if you suspect frostbite.
• Use nontoxic antifreeze. Antifreeze is great-tasting to pets, but even a very small amount ingested can be deadly. Look for “safe” nontoxic antifreeze, consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, and make sure all spills are cleaned up immediately and thoroughly. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pets have ingested any antifreeze!

The post Tips for a Humane Winter appeared first on American Humane.

Bernie was born in New York in 1943. He became a professor at Colorado State University in 1969, where he would spend the next 51 years, retiring as University Distinguished Professor. After establishing himself as a pure philosopher in the 1970s, he shifted focus and dedicated the rest of his career to the welfare of animals in medicine, research, agriculture and society.

Bernie is credited with bringing extraordinary change for the animal welfare industry, earning countless friends, and even some enemies, along the way. He taught the first ever course on veterinary medical ethics, and profoundly changed the way veterinarians are taught and how they practice. Bernie co-wrote the 1982 federal laws that enforce humane treatment of animals in research, and as a result, was described as the person “who alleviated more animal pain than anyone in history.”

Bernie had a special relationship with American Humane and served on many advisory committees for our programs. He was a scorching critic of those who hurt our best friends and a staunch defender of defenseless creatures in need. His brilliant work helped make a significant, meaningful difference for millions of animals over the years.

We are so touched and grateful that Bernie selected American Humane as the charitable entity to honor his memory. We will strive tirelessly to ensure that our mission continues to benefit the world’s animal populations through the light shone by Bernie’s legacy.

Bernie Rollin will forever be a legend in the world of humane advocacy, and a leader who exemplified compassion, kindness and moral courage. He will be greatly missed by us, and the world’s animals.

The post In Loving Memory of Bernie Rollin appeared first on American Humane.

Having an emergency plan in place for your entire family, including your pets, is critical to staying safe during a tornado or severe storm. The American Humane Rescue team has put together a series of tips to help before, during and after a tornado strike:

BEFORE A TORNADO:

• Identify a tornado-safe area large enough for your entire family and pets (often a basement or the most interior room of the house on the bottom floor).
• Practice getting the entire family to the tornado safe area quickly during calm weather.
• Make your tornado-safe area pet-friendly by removing any dangerous items such as tools or toxic products.
• Keep your pet disaster preparedness kits in your tornado-safe area or close by. Ensure that you have a crate for every animal.
• Know your pet’s hiding places and how to extricate them quickly and safely. Eliminate any unsafe hiding areas from which it may be difficult to remove your animal in a hurry.

DURING A TORNADO:

• If an evacuation is possible, take your pets with you. Make sure you have your pet disaster preparedness kit and that your animals have proper identification including microchips and collars with current ID tags.
• If you cannot evacuate, take your entire family – including pets (both indoor and out) – to your tornado-safe room.
• Pets should be put in crates or carriers in the safe room. If possible, place the crates under a sturdy piece of furniture.

AFTER THE TORNADO HAS PASSED:

• Use caution when allowing your pets and other family members outdoors.
• Exit only AFTER the entire storm has passed.
• Assess the damage yourself first before bringing your pets outside with you.
• Keep your dogs on a leash and cats in a carrier.
• Watch for objects that could cause injury or harm to your pet.
• Allow them to become re-oriented. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and cause your pet confusion or to become lost.
• Keep pets away from food, water or liquids that could be contaminated from the storm.
• Keep pets away from downed power lines and debris.

By following these tips, you can prepare to protect your loved ones if disaster strikes. If you come across an animal that may be in trouble in the aftermath of a tornado, contact your local animal control as soon as possible.

The post Protect Your Loved Ones if Disaster Strikes appeared first on American Humane.

Each year, we pay tribute to the achievements of an amazing veterinarian and veterinary nurse through the American Humane Hero Veterinarian and Hero Veterinary Nurse Awards, presented by Zoetis Petcare. Pet owners and animal lovers alike are invited to nominate their favorite veterinary professionals who are dedicated to the betterment of the health and welfare of animals and the promotion of the human-animal bond. This year, after a nationwide search and tens of thousands of public votes, Dr. Mary Kate Lawler from Houston, Texas was named 2021’s American Hero Veterinarian, and Jill Elston from Milan, Pennsylvania was declared 2021’s American Hero Veterinary Nurse.

Dr. Mary Kate Lawler has graced the Spay-Neuter Assistance Program with her proficient leadership for more than 10 years. Her tireless work and dedication allow her to perform as many as 8,500 spay/neuter surgeries each year. When the last surgery is finished each day and the patients are recovering, she deftly shifts to her role as executive director. Her exemplary veterinary skills, business acumen and compassion keep the SNAP team focused on their mission. Dr. Lawler also traveled extensively and has participated in spay/neuter clinics in India, Mexico, Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, American Samoa, Hawaii and on the reservations in the American Southwest. Her unwavering dedication for the well-being of the people and pets of the community have pushed her to persevere through hurricanes, fires and pandemics. She is a hero in the eyes of those she leads and the vast number of companion animals whose lives she has improved.

Dr. Mary Kate Lawler with Staff Sergeant Summer, the 2021 Military Hero Dog 

Jill Elson is the embodiment of a Hero Veterinary Nurse. Shelter medicine has always been her passion, and a couple years after graduation she found her true purpose working at Animal Care Sanctuary, serving and caring for those who have no home, protecting the wounded and abused and giving a chance to those everyone else gave up on. She courageously leads a team of veterinary professionals who provide veterinary care in an underserved rural area, and Jill herself has become the St. Jude of ACS, “Mama Jill’s Home for Lost Souls.” She is always first in line to take home the sad, broken, sick, abused or neglected. She regularly rehabilitates fearful dogs and helps sick animals recover. Her special project, however, is being a hospice for older dogs and cats who aren’t candidates for adoption, but who still deserve the dignity of a home and a family at the end of their lives. For all cats and dogs, she offers up her own home, giving them a chance to flourish in comfortable conditions, receiving the best food and care, a lively lifestyle and a warm, soft spot next to Jill in her recliner.

Jill Elston with Sobee, the 2021 Service Hero Dog

Dr. Lawler and Ms. Elston are remarkable animal welfare advocates, and we are proud to honor those that go above and beyond to provide essential veterinary medicine and care.

Veterinarians and veterinary nurses are heroes to the animals they serve. Today, on the International Day of Veterinary Medicine, we urge you to thank your veterinary doctor – send them a note or a card expressing your gratitude for their unwavering service.

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During National Cat Lover’s Month, we honor the beauty, smarts and sass of our feline friends. Evidence suggests that cats were domesticated more than 9,500 years ago, and according to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation, 25 percent of households are home to a cat. Cats are one of the most popular pets for many reasons – not only are they quiet, independent and usually require less maintenance than other pets, but they are also great companions. Cats can sense when you need comfort and are proven to reduce anxiety and stress levels. People form deep, intimate bonds with these sleek creatures who provide a lifetime of love and affection.

Tragically, cat overpopulation remains an issue, and more than three million cats enter U.S. animal shelters each year. Cats also have higher euthanasia rates than dogs, and approximately 850,000 cats are euthanized each year because they can’t find their forever homes. This National Cat Lover’s Month, we call on you to adopt a cat in need from your local animal shelter. You can be a hero and save a life, providing a sweet cat with their purrrfect home.

If you already have a cat, use this month to give yourself the gift of time with your cat companion. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be hard to carve out time to spend with those you love, so take some extra precious moments with your special furry friend.

If you are not able to take on the responsibility of a new pet, or a cat is just not right for you, that’s okay! December is also the traditional month of giving, and as the days grow colder and the nights get longer, now is the time when homeless and neglected animals need us most. You can celebrate National Cat Lover’s Month by making a gift to American Humane, in turn supporting all our lifesaving programs and making an impact for many frightened, abandoned and neglected animals who desperately need our help.

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