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Animal Companions

California Residents: Tell Gov. Newsom to Sign the SNIP Act!

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Animal Companions

New Jersey Residents: Support Bills to Create an Animal Abuser Registry

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Wild and Free

Michigan Residents: Oppose Bill Legalizing Deer Baiting in the Lower Peninsula

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Farmed Animals

NYC Banned Foie Gras Cruelty — Don’t Let It Be Overturned

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Justice for Animals

Horse Repeatedly Stabbed & Whipped in Front of Child in Florida

Cat Declawing & Humane Alternatives

WATCH: Caring Community Members Help Hundreds of Animals a Month in India

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Justice for Animals

UPDATE: Judge Fails Dog Who Was Wrapped in Plastic & Left in Hot Sun in South Carolina

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Wild and Free

California Residents: Tell Gov. Newsom to Veto Deadly Wildlife Bill

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Wild and Free

Ohio Residents: Stop the Expansion of Silencers for Hunting

California Residents: Tell Gov. Newsom to Sign the SNIP Act!

Lawmakers have passed the SNIP Act, critical legislation that would address the pet overpopulation crisis in California by expanding spay/neuter services; now it…

animal companions, California, SNIP Act

New Jersey Residents: Support Bills to Create an Animal Abuser Registry

Lawmakers in New Jersey have introduced legislation (A3699/S599), which would create a registry of animal abusers and stop them from buying, adopting, or breeding…

Animal Abuser Registry, animal companions, New Jersey

Michigan Residents: Oppose Bill Legalizing Deer Baiting in the Lower Peninsula

Baiting deer is currently banned in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, but lawmakers are considering a bill (HB 4445) that could change that.

deer, Michigan, Wild Animals

NYC Banned Foie Gras Cruelty — Don’t Let It Be Overturned

Urge NY Attorney General Letitia James to stop fighting NYC’s foie gras ban and allow this critical animal protection law to take effect.

birds, ducks, Farmed Animals, foie gras, geese, New York City

Horse Repeatedly Stabbed & Whipped in Front of Child in Florida

A Florida woman faces animal cruelty charges after allegedly stabbing and whipping a horse while other horses were found wounded and underweight.

animal cruelty, Brevard County, Florida, horses, Justice for Animals

Cat Declawing & Humane Alternatives

Declawing cats has remained a controversial topic among veterinarians, animal advocates, and cat guardians, but the fact remains that it isn’t a simple procedure…

WATCH: Caring Community Members Help Hundreds of Animals a Month in India

With hundreds of animals in its care everyday our partner IDA India’s Deonar Center in Mumbai is constantly bustling with activity, but the Outpatient Department…

Animal Birth Control, IDA India

UPDATE: Judge Fails Dog Who Was Wrapped in Plastic & Left in Hot Sun in South Carolina

A South Carolina judge let a woman convicted of torturing Lil Richard avoid prison. Speak out against this devastating failure of justice.

animal abuse, animal cruelty, animal protection, court, dogs, justice, Justice for Animals, sentencing, South Carolina

California Residents: Tell Gov. Newsom to Veto Deadly Wildlife Bill

California lawmakers have unfortunately passed AB 1722, which would create a deadly loophole for killing species protected under the California Endangered Species…

California, Wild Animals

Ohio Residents: Stop the Expansion of Silencers for Hunting

Urge Ohio lawmakers to oppose SB 214, a dangerous bill that would deregulate firearm suppressors and put people and animals at risk.

animal protection, Animals, firearms, gun laws, hunting, Ohio, Public Safety, suppressors, Wild Animals, Wildlife

New Jersey Residents: Support a Ban on Fur Farming!

Lawmakers in New Jersey are considering legislation (A5060/S4227), which would ban fur farming in the state. Urge them to pass these bills!

fur, fur farming, New Jersey, Wild Animals

Shut Down Andgar Pig Farms & Expose the Hidden Horrors of Animal Farming

Pigs at Andgar endured horrific cruelty. Charges aren’t enough. Urge SA officials to shut it down and expose animal farming’s hidden cruelty.

animal cruelty, Farm Transparency Project, Farmed Animals, pigs, South Australia, Vegan

Keep Florida’s Black Bears Out of Hunters’ Crosshairs

Florida’s black bears need protection, not hunting. Urge officials to end Florida’s newly reinstated bear hunt and protect recovering bears.

black bears, Florida, Wild Animals

WATCH: Victory! Whale Awareness Act Signed Into Law Protecting Whales in New York

New York’s Whale Awareness Act is now law, helping educate boaters and reduce deadly vessel strikes to protect whales in state waters.

boating, Cetaceans, marine mammals, New York, oceans, vessel strikes, whales, Wild Animals

UPDATE: Justice Falls Short After Dog Beating & Strangling Case in North Carolina

A North Carolina woman avoided prison after a plea deal in a brutal dog abuse case. Learn who was responsible and how to speak out.

animal abuse, animal cruelty, animal protection, court, dogs, justice, Justice for Animals, North Carolina

WATCH: Tiny Dog Who Was in Such Bad Shape She Was Mistaken for Trash is Now Safe & Loved

Ginny was so neglected she was mistaken for trash. See how one tiny dog went from near death to safe, healing, and deeply loved.

animal cruelty, animal rescue, dogs, Doll Stanley, Justice for Animals, Mississippi

Ohio Residents: Help Crack Down on Puppy Mills!

Ohio lawmakers are considering SB 232, which would close loopholes in current law and establish more comprehensive care standards at high-volume breeders.

Ohio, puppy mills

California Residents: 2nd Stage: Support the California Wildlife Coexistence Act

Urge California lawmakers to support SB 1135 while removing a provision that could put protected wolves at risk.

California, California legislation, California Wildlife Coexistence Act, nonlethal coexistence, SB 1135, wildlife coexistence

New York Residents: Urge Gov. Hochul to Ban Octopus Farming

Urge Gov. Kathy Hochul to sign S.7421B/A.8043C and ban commercial octopus farming in New York before this cruel industry takes hold.

A.8043C, animal protection, aquatic animals, factory farms, Kathy Hochul, New York, octopus farming, octopuses, S.7421B

Gray Whales Are Dying Amid a Growing West Coast Crisis

Gray whales are dying in alarming numbers along the West Coast. Urge NOAA to restore Endangered Species Act protections now.

endangered species, Endangered Species Act, gray whales, marine mammals, NOAA, ocean conservation, whales

Kittens Tortured & Killed to Punish Teen Daughter in Florida

Demand justice for kittens allegedly killed and abused in Fort Myers, Florida, including a survivor who required veterinary treatment.

animal abuse, animal cruelty, cats, kittens

The Cage-Free Scam & Rethinking What Progress Means for Animals

“Cage-free” eggs still mean suffering. Learn why cage-free systems fail hens and how vegan advocacy offers a path toward true animal liberation.

Rare Dog Saved From South Korea’s Dog Meat Trade Has Been Waiting Forever To Be Adopted

Benny was rescued from the back of a truck headed to slaughter in 2019, and he’s been waiting this whole time to be adopted.

dog meat trade, Jindo Love Rescue, South Korea

UPDATE: Man Who Brutally Kicked Rogue the Cat to Death Gets Just One Year in Jail

A man who brutally kicked Rogue the cat to death gets just one year in jail and a one-year animal restriction. Speak up for stronger justice.

animal abuse, animal cruelty, cats, companion animals, Henrietta, Justice for Animals, Monroe County, New York, rogue

MEDIA RELEASE: Supporters Say Send Buttonwood Park Zoo’s Solitary Elephant to Sanctuary

Friends of Ruth & Emily and In Defense of Animals organized the demonstration to free Buttonwood Park Zoo's lonely elephant Emily before it's too late.

10 Worst Zoos, elephants

California Residents: 2nd Stage: Support the SNIP Act to Expand Spay/Neuter Programs!

California’s shelters are in crisis mode, and thousands upon thousands of animals are suffering and dying as a result. The SNIP Act could address the overpopulation…

animal companions, California, SNIP Act

New Jersey Residents: Oppose Sunday Deer Hunting With Firearms

Deer in New Jersey can already be widely hunted, but they’re at least protected from being killed with firearms on Sundays. Unfortunately, legislation under consideration…

hunting, New Jersey, Wild Animals

Only 75 Southern Resident Orcas Remain — California Must Protect Them Now

Urge California to list Southern Resident killer whales as endangered and strengthen protections for the 75 individuals who remain.

California, endangered species, marine mammals, orcas, southern resident killer whales

Yellowstone Wolf Family at Risk as Wyoming Hunting Season Nears

Protect Yellowstone’s legendary Mollie’s Pack from wolf hunting. Urge Wyoming to close Wolf Hunt Area 1 and keep this historic wolf family safe.

hunting, United States, Wild Animals, wolf, Wolves, Yellowstone

MEDIA RELEASE: Louisiana Man Arrested for Animal and Child Sexual Abuse Material Sentenced

In Defense of Animals condemns the lenient sentencing handed to Nathan Mann, who was arrested for in 2023 for possessing sexual assault material of children and…

Justice for Animals, Louisiana

WATCH: Sick, Orphaned, & Abandoned Kittens Get the Best Care in India

Animals on the busy streets of Mumbai already face daily challenges trying to make it through the day, but without help, countless tiny kittens wouldn’t stand a…

IDA India, kittens

VegCrush 2026: Explore Vegan Dining on California’s Central Coast

Celebrate VegCrush 2026 on California's Central Coast with vegan dining, local shopping, prizes, and support for rescued animals at Freedom Farms.

Central Coast vegan restaurants, Freedom Farms, Freedom Farms Animal Sanctuary, Plant-based events California, Vegan Central Coast, Vegan San Luis Obispo, VegCrush 2026, VegCrush Central Coast, VegCrush San Luis Obispo County

Victory! 20-Year Prison Sentence in Brutal Florida Cat Beheading Case

A Florida man has received the maximum 20-year prison sentence for brutally killing two cats after thousands demanded justice.

animal abuse, animal cruelty, animal cruelty laws, Bonita Springs, cats, Dexter’s Law, Florida, Lee County, Robert James Luther III, State Attorney Amira Fox

MEDIA RELEASE: Whistleblowers Expose Elephant Cover-Up & Conflicts of Interest at Busch Gardens

Following the death of a second elephant in less than two years, In Defense of Animals joins the Weeping Elephant Project in demanding an independent investigation…

Busch Gardens, elephants, Florida

MEDIA RELEASE: North Carolina Woman Given Suspended Sentence for Abusing Her Dog

A Craven County woman convicted of felony animal cruelty after a video showed her beating, kicking and strangling her dog has been sentenced to probation rather…

Justice for Animals, North Carolina

California Residents: Oppose Bill Encouraging Sick Kids to Kill Animals Again!

A bill to expand hunting and fishing opportunities for kids with life-threatening illnesses passed the Senate, and now it’s in the Assembly. While it’s been placed…

California, SB 1021, Wild Animals

Michigan Residents: Protect Gray Wolves From Slaughter!

Michigan lawmakers want to force a gray wolf hunting season. Urge your representative to vote NO on HB 6008 and protect wolves.

endangered species, Endangered Species Act, gray wolves, Michigan, Wild Animals, Wildlife

New Jersey Residents: Support the Humane Pet Store Bill!

Lawmakers in New Jersey are once again considering the Humane Pet Store Bill (S. 434/A. 2049), which would address this issue by banning pet store sales of dogs,…

animal companions, Humane Pet Store Bill, New Jersey, puppy mills

Dogs Allegedly Doused With Accelerant & Set on Fire

A Louisville man is accused of setting two dogs on fire and threatening their guardian. Urge prosecutors to seek justice for Seven and Brooklyn.

animal abuse, animal companions, animal cruelty, dogs, domestic violence, Justice for Animals

Right Whales Can’t Wait Any Longer: Congress Must Kill 2 Bad Bills

Tell Congress to oppose H.R. 9436and stop delaying lifesaving protections for critically endangered North Atlantic right whales until 2035.

endangered species, entanglement, fishing, fishing gear, marine mammals, North Atlantic right whales, whales

WATCH: A Tiny Cry for Help

A tiny cry led to Shanny’s rescue. Watch how this terrified kitten found safety, love, and a new beginning at Hope Animal Sanctuary.

Victory! Florida Passes Bills to Protect Animals & Kids From Cruelty & Regulate Pet Sales

In good news for animals, Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed two bills to crack down on cruelty and puppy mills and improve consumer protection in Florida.

animal companions, Florida, legislation

MEDIA RELEASE: Woman Walks Free After Baking Her Dog in Plastic Under the Hot South Carolina Sun

In Defense of Animals is deeply disappointed by the sentencing of Shaneitra Berniq Jeter, who was charged with animal torture for leaving her dog wrapped in a plastic…

Justice for Animals, South Carolina

Ohio Residents: Stop a Constitutional Right to Hunt & Kill Wild Animals

Urge Ohio senators to oppose S.J.R. 8, which would create a constitutional right to hunt, fish, and kill wild animals.

animal protection, constitutional amendment, fishing, hunting, Ohio, state legislation, walleye, white-tailed deer, Wild Animals

Michigan Residents: Support a Ban on Declawing Cats!

Michigan could be the next state to pass legislation banning the cruel practice of declawing cats.

cats, companion animals, declawing, Michigan

California Residents: Help Bring Grizzly Bears Back!

Urge your California assemblymember to support SB 1305 and assess whether and how grizzly bears could responsibly return.

animal protection, bears, California, Wild Animals

Will 475,000 Owls Be Massacred for the Timber Industry?

Tell U.S. senators & House reps to end brutal slaughter of ½-million barred & spotted owls. Nullify “BOMS” killing campaign w. Congressional legislation.

barred owl, BOMS, Endangered Species Act, invasive species, logging, owl, slaughter, spotted owl, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Tell Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to Protect Elephants & End Animal Suffering!

Major issues adversely affecting animals and staff at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay have just been exposed by the Weeping Elephant Project; now we’re demanding changes.

Busch Gardens, elephants

WATCH: Animal Liberation Message Reaches Thousands at Marin Parade

Animal advocates brought a powerful message of animal liberation and veganism to thousands at Marin County’s Fourth of July parade.

dairy, Farmed Animals, Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, Vegan activism

WATCH: Standing With the Rescuers Fighting Türkiye’s Animal Massacre

Türkiye’s community dogs are being seized, tortured, and killed while courageous rescuers risk everything to save them. See how your support is helping.

companion animals, dogs, Türkiye

Victory! Plans for the World’s First Octopus Farm Are Scrapped

The world’s first octopus farm has been stopped. Learn why octopus farming threatens animal welfare, ocean ecosystems, and intelligent animals.

octopus, Spain, Victory

Donate To International Partner Spay & Neuter

Donate today and support In Defense of Animals' efforts to provide spay and neuter services as well as emergency rescue in countries killing homeless animals like…

MEDIA RELEASE: Florida Man Given Maximum Sentence for Depositing Dead Cat Heads on Mailbox

In Defense of Animals applauds the sentencing of Florida man who left the heads of two cats in a mailbox.

cats, Florida, Justice for Animals

Indiana Residents: Stop Expanded Bobcat Trapping & Trophy Hunting

Indiana residents: Urge Gov. Mike Braun to reverse expanded bobcat killing and stop the rule from becoming permanent.

bobcat, hunting, Indiana, Indiana bobcats

Massachusetts Residents: Stop Expanded Hunting in the MassReady Act

Massachusetts lawmakers may expand Sunday hunting, crossbow use and hunting closer to homes. Urge them to remove these provisions.

deer, hunting, Massachusetts, public lands

Delaware Residents: Urge Gov. Meyer to Veto Dangerous Teen Hunting Bill

Delaware bill HS 1 for HB 427 would let teens hunt and practice shooting without direct adult supervision. Urge Gov. Matt Meyer to veto it.

coexistence, Delaware, hunting, legislation, trapping

MEDIA RELEASE: Food Trailblazer Wins Nonviolence Award

Freya Dinshah, who wrote “The Vegan Kitchen,” the first U.S. cookbook with the word "vegan" in its title will receive the 2026 Homo Ahimsa Award for that book and…

Homo Ahimsa Award, Homo Ahimsa Awareness Week, Homo Ahimsa Day, Sustainable Activism

MEDIA RELEASE: Florida Judge Lets Poacher Walk on Probation Despite Role in Killing 13 Alligators

VIERA, Fla. (July 23, 2026) — In Defense of Animals is condemning the lenient sentencing of Luke David Michael Landry, one of four men charged with illegally killing…

Florida, Justice for Animals

Tell Congress: End Cruel Horse & Burro Roundups

Urge Congress to protect wild horses and burros from cruel helicopter roundups and support humane, on-range management solutions.

United States, wild horses

Solitary Elephant Belle Deserves Retirement from the Milwaukee County Zoo

Milwaukee County Zoo’s last elephant Belle should be retired to sanctuary now.

Belle, elephant, Milwaukee County Zoo, Sanctuary, solitary elephants

Sanctuary
2026-07-24

Mom Dog Rescued in South Korea Flies to New Home With Her Bestie & Gets the Best Surprise

A sweet mom dog who cared for many puppies in need in South Korea is finally in her new home in the U.S., where she not only got to fly to with her best friend,…

Cheonsa, Harper, Howie, Jindo Love Rescue

Not Feral, But Afraid: Reframing Homeless Cats Through a Trauma-Informed Lens

Explore how a trauma-informed perspective can transform the way we understand and care for homeless cats.

animal advocacy, animal protection, animal welfare, cat behavior, cat rescue, community cats, companion animals, feral cats, homeless cats, trauma-informed care

Victory! Freedom is in Sight for the Elephants at Roger Williams Park Zoo

The 3 African elephants at Roger Williams Park Zoo will head to sanctuary in 2027.

African elephants, captivity, elephants, Sanctuary

MEDIA RELEASE: International Effort Launched to Save DRC’s Endangered Animals

In Defense of Animals is partnering with Innovation pour le Développement et la Protection de l’Environnement (IDPE), a civil society organization operating within…

Democratic Republic of the Congo, Wild Animals

Sharks Spotlighted for Respect for Fish Day to Advocate for All Aquatic Animals

Respect4Fish Day urges all to honor & defend fish, choose justice & empathy, and to stop eating fish. Aquatic animals deserve freedom, too.

fishing, marine species, respect for fish day, sharks, Vegan

The Dangers of Zoo Life For Endangered Elephants

Life in captivity is fraught with dangers for endangered elephants.

10 Worst Zoos, captivity, elephants, endangered species, zoos

Victory! Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Setting Kitten on Fire

An Ohio man who set kitten Joffrey on fire has been sentenced to two years in prison after more than 12,400 supporters demanded justice.

animal companions, animal cruelty, cats, court, Justice for Animals, Ohio, sentencing

Stop the SHARKED Act to Protect Sharks in Crisis

Sharks have declined over 70% due to fishing. The SHARKED Act could weaken protections for already collapsing shark populations. Urge action now.

endangered species, Farmed Animals, fish, fishing, legislation, marine species, respect for fish, sharks

Beloved Cat Killed After Neighbor Allegedly Tossed Him to Dogs

Urge Colorado prosecutors to seek maximum charges and penalties for the woman accused of tossing Tobi, a neighbor’s beloved cat, to her dogs.

animal companions, animal cruelty, cats, Colorado, dogs, Justice for Animals

MEDIA RELEASE: “Appalling” Sentence for New York Man Who Brutally Kicked Girlfriend’s Cat to Death

In Defense of Animals is strongly condemning the sentencing of Harold Larson, who was charged with aggravated animal cruelty for fatally kicking his girlfriend’s…

Justice for Animals, New York

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