Having read about the recent incident involving two animal care workers in Indy who were fired for checking adopters’ criminal history, I must say that my initial reaction was one of disbelief and outrage. The fact that these employees were terminated for simply trying to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in their care is truly mind-boggling. As someone who deeply values the protection of animals and believes in the importance of due diligence when it comes to vetting potential adopters, I am utterly dismayed by the actions taken by the management at the animal shelter.
In the case of Kylee Fox, who discovered that a dog named Champagne was adopted out to a couple with a history of animal cruelty and abandonment violations, it is clear that her intentions were sincere and driven by a genuine concern for the animals.… Continue reading
A stingray that got pregnant at a North Carolina aquarium this winter despite not having shared a tank with a male of her species for many years has tragically passed away. The Aquarium and Shark Lab in Hendersonville made the announcement on Facebook, citing a rare reproductive disease as the cause. Charlotte, the stingray in question, had seemingly been under the assumption of experiencing a pregnancy due to parthenogenesis, a type of asexual reproduction seen in various animal species. The aquarium did not provide further details regarding the situation.
As I delved into the mysterious circumstances surrounding Charlotte’s situation, I uncovered a storm of controversy on social media.… Continue reading
As a vet tech myself, the story of a woman who took her dog to a shelter to be euthanized only to find out a year later that the dog was up for adoption again hits close to home. The complexities and emotions involved in decisions regarding euthanasia for pets are never easy, and this particular case raises a lot of questions and concerns.
First and foremost, the fact that the dog owner was not allowed to be present during the euthanasia process at the shelter is alarming. Being present for your beloved pet’s final moments is not only a comfort to the owner but also ensures that the process is carried out with compassion and care.… Continue reading
I can’t wrap my head around the news of dozens of roosters being allegedly shot to death by deputies and animal control. The fact that these animals were set to be delivered to a farm animal sanctuary in Pierce County but instead met a brutal end is not only heart-wrenching but also concerning. The idea that these officers and officials couldn’t wait for a rescue team to arrive, opting instead to end the lives of these innocent creatures, is truly disturbing.
It’s not uncommon for animals to be euthanized in certain situations where finding a home for them proves difficult, but the circumstances surrounding this incident raise serious questions.… Continue reading
I can’t help but chuckle at the recent news of a Chinese zoo coming under fire for dyeing dogs to resemble pandas. The concept of “panda dogs” is undeniably adorable, and I can’t help but wonder why anyone would be upset about dogs being creatively groomed to mimic another animal. After all, it seems like a fun and light-hearted attraction that is clearly meant to be a playful and quirky experience for visitors.
The zoo officials have made it known that the dogs in question are actually Chow Chows, a fluffy breed originally from northern China, painted black and white to look like giant pandas.… Continue reading
As I read the news about a tourist being mauled after rolling down the window for a bear selfie, I couldn’t help but shake my head in disbelief. The level of ignorance and disregard for wildlife never ceases to amaze me. The fact that some people think it’s acceptable to approach a wild animal for a photo op is beyond comprehension. These creatures are not props for our Instagram feed; they are living beings with instincts and needs.
It’s alarming to see how some individuals completely ignore common sense and basic safety precautions when encountering wildlife. The incident where a group of tourists pulled a terrified bear cub out of a tree for selfies, resulting in the mother abandoning the cub and its siblings, is a testament to the reckless behavior of some people.… Continue reading
Lolita’s story is truly heart-wrenching. The confinement and mistreatment of such a majestic creature like an orca is beyond cruel. The fact that she spent her days in what can only be described as a glorified fish tank is incomprehensible. The thought of Lolita, once a wild and free spirit, reduced to a mere spectacle for human entertainment is sickening. It’s appalling to think that the Miami Seaquarium, a place that should have been a beacon for education and appreciation of marine life, instead became a symbol of neglect and exploitation.
The recent news of the Miami Seaquarium receiving an eviction notice comes as a small beacon of hope in this dark chapter.… Continue reading
The recent news of a Colorado man passing away after being bitten by his pet Gila monster brings to light the potential dangers of owning exotic pets, especially those with the word “Monster” in their name. The quote mentioning that a man who is foolish enough to get bitten by a Gila monster ought to die seems harsh, but it raises an important point about the responsibility that comes with owning such animals. As someone who has spent time around these reptiles, I can attest to their mellow nature but also their capability to bite if mishandled.
It is crucial to understand that Gila monsters are not meant to be kept as pets.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood