In This Issue:
- Karyn Stratton
A Note From The Editor:
Happy New Year! As we bid the old one farewell, it ' s a good time to reflect on all the animal welfare improvements that have been made over the past twelve months. After years of advocacy and reform, 2025 actually marked a significant period of progress in advancing standards and protections for our four-legged friends. Despite many lingering challenges, it was proved that determined public pressure and smarter policy can lead to better outcomes, such as:
• A landmark federal law was signed that cuts funding for certain painful dog and cat experiments in the Department of Defense- signaling a strong policy shift away from invasive research practices on companion animals, using AI and computer-generated alternatives instead.
• Globally, advocacy progress has achieved bans on fur farming, increased transparency of slaughter practices, and reduced animal testing where alternatives are available.
• Mexico has amended its constitution to officially recognize animals as sentient beings, deserving legal safeguards.
• Over 500 localities in the U. S. have passed laws banning the sale of puppies and kittens from commercial puppy mills in pet stores, reducing incentive for inhumane breeding operations.
• New York is requiring animal shelters across the state to meet higher standards for animal care and facility operations, including heated floors, more space for kennels, and improved documentation.
• Arizona passed“ Jerry’ s Law," which redefines animal cruelty to include reckless neglect- such as withholding medical care, food, water, or shelter.
• Texas enacted " Pancho’ s Law," closing a legal loophole so people can be prosecuted for negligent cruelty- not just intentional harm.
• California has made sweeping reforms that include stronger protections for pets in emergency planning.
• Pennsylvania made history by changing how pets are defined under state law. With this reform, the state has formally acknowledged that pets are not property. They are family. And we animal lovers knew that all along, didn ' t we?
A huge " Thank You " to all the people continuing the fight to make it a kinder world for animals. We wish you- and everyone- a new year filled with love, laughter, good health, and family- two and four-legged!
In This Issue:
- Karyn Stratton
Pet Calendar of Events............................................. page 2 Upcoming Pet Events............................................... page 3 Around the Hydrant: News You Can Use............... page 4 Canine Joint Health................................................. page 4 Keeping Older Cats Healthy.................................... page 5 Health Highlights- Keeping Dogs Fit in Winter.... page 6 Breed All About It- The German Shepherd........... page 7 Cute & Crazy Critters.............................................. page 8 Adoption: A Loving Option.................................... pages 10, 11 Pawsitively Delicious................................................ page 12 Ask the Groomer- Protecting Pets ' Paw Pads........ page 13 Win a Bark Brew Dog Toy....................................... page 13 Winter Pet Precautions............................................ page 14 Subscriptions- Let Us Fetch Your Next Copy........ page 15
On our cover: " Maisey " Thanks to Ashlee Marie of Ontario, Canada for providing us with her photo!
January
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