OCTOBER 2025 Pawsitively Pets - issue to publish online | Page 3

In This Issue:
- Karyn Stratton

A Note From The Editor:

All across the country, animal shelters are in crisis. Overcrowding, underfunding, and staff shortages have created dire conditions for millions of homeless pets. Yet even amidst this sobering reality, there are victories worth celebrating- milestones that signal a positive shift in how animals are valued in our society and renewed hope for their welfare.
One such breakthrough came from an unexpected place: the U. S. Navy. In a landmark decision, the Navy announced that it will no longer use live animals in medical training exercises, marking the end of a long, painful chapter of government-funded animal abuse. It ' s a major step toward more humane and modern alternatives, such as AI-driven and simulation-based training, as well as other advanced technologies.
Closer to home, a Brooklyn judge recently ruled that dogs can be considered family under New York law. This precedent-setting decision affirms what millions of pet owners have always known- our animals are not property... they are companions, protectors, and loved members of the household. The ruling could influence custody disputes, housing rights, and emergency protections, potentially reshaping the legal landscape for our animal companions. This heartwarming and historic decision marks the first time a U. S. court has extended this kind of protection to a dog. It isn’ t just a legal win- it’ s a powerful recognition of the emotional bonds we share with our four-legged friends.
Meanwhile, South Carolina is taking a strong stand against one of the most brutal forms of cruelty: organized dog fighting. New legislation, increasing penalties, and expanding enforcement tools have resulted in more than 200 dogs being rescued from dogfighting rings in that state so far this year. These measures need to be enacted nationwide.
While shelters still struggle under the weight of too many animals and too few resources, these victories do offer hope. They remind us that change is possible, and well worth fighting for. Animals deserve better, and progress may be slow, but it is being made, one law and one compassionate decision at a time.
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 Black Cat Awareness Month................................... page 4 A Clear Case of " Kit-Napping "................................ page 5 Health Highlights- Home Remedies for Diarrhea.... page 6 Breed All About It- The Corgi................................... page 7 Cute & Crazy Critters............................................... page 8 Adoption: A Loving Option...................................... pages 10, 11 Pawsitively Delicious................................................ page 12 Ask the Groomer- Treating Tear Stains.................... page 13 Win a BARK Super Chewer Dog Toy........................ page 13 Fun Facts About Dogs.............................................. page 14 Subscriptions- Let Us Fetch Your Next Copy.......... page 15
On our cover: " Sasha "
Thanks to Marina Zvada
of Bayreuth, Germany
for providing us with her photo!
October
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