Animal Report

Share animal news stories, facts about favorite critters, and heartwarming tales about man's best friends

The "Pet Adoption Nazis"

Adoption agencies want the best for their adoptees - but all they're doing is making it harder for pets to find new homes

Slate's Emily Yoffe (perhaps better known as Ask Prudence) has written an admirably cool-headed and reasonable article about the extraordinarily tight restrictions and adoption interviews that are becoming the norm with many animal rescue agencies and shelters. Both anecdotally and personally, I agree that this is something that has really become a rising problem over the last decade or so.

I too know several people who, for ridiculous reasons, failed their adoption interviews. They came to the agencies looking to give an animal a good home, and were rejected. Obviously the adoption agencies don't know my friends from Adam, and they have to draw the line somewhere.

Cougar Hunting is Not All Bad

I remember several years ago when hunting cougars with hounds was outlawed in our state. There were some people who were relieved, because hunting with hounds is perceived as cruel, but many more were outraged. Hunting cougars without the use of hounds is nearly impossible, and creates a greater danger to the hunters. Read more about Cougar Hunting is Not All Bad

Are You Sure You Want a New Pet?

As we get closer to Easter again, I am reminded of how many pets are brought home at the spur of the moment and then neglected when the novelty wears off. Easter bunnies are a perfect example of this. In rabbit forums, you will often hear the recommendation to wait until a couple months after Easter to get new breeding stock, because by then people are tired of their Easter bunnies and looking for a way out. It is a great time to get cages and supplies, too. Read more about Are You Sure You Want a New Pet?

Vacationing When You Have Animals

I love having animals. They are so much a part of our life here that I cannot imagine living without them. From the chickens that provide our eggs to the dogs that provide wrestling partners for the toddlers, our life is much better because we have animals. When it comes time to go away for a vacation or even an overnight outing, having animals can make plans much more difficult, but there are options to make sure your animals get proper care while you are away. Read more about Vacationing When You Have Animals

Endangered Species

Many people do not understand that there are so many endangered species in the world today. It is very important to try to help save them to avoid having them become instinct. Below I have shared some of the endangered species in the world that many people do not even think twice about.

Read more about Endangered Species

Remember Your Pets as the Temperature Drops

As we approach the coldest part of the year for some regions, it is time to begin thinking of the comfort of our outdoor pets and animals. When temperatures begin to plummet, animals that live outdoors will begin to have higher energy requirements. They need even more food and water than normal to help them stay warm and ward off the frigid temperatures. They also need adequate shelter that is free from drafts and moisture. Read more about Remember Your Pets as the Temperature Drops

What is Our Fascination with Farms?

"What is it about farms that holds our fascination, long after those first years?"

From the time we are very small children, just able to take notice of the world around us, we begin to develop a fascination with farms. Some of the most popular toys for small children are play farm sets, small animal figurines, and books about farms and farm equipment. Read more about What is Our Fascination with Farms?

Do You Get Christmas Gifts for Your Pets?

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, including one for Fido sitting way over there…Christmas gifts for pets have become quite the retail industry, with pet owners lining up to spend sometimes hundreds of dollars on the latest and greatest for their beloved pooch or cat. If you visit any pet store around this time of year, expect to see a vivid Christmas display filled with all kinds of ways to treat your favorite pet this Christmas. Read more about Do You Get Christmas Gifts for Your Pets?

World's Smallest Frogs Discovered

Tiniest tetrapods found in Papua New Guinea

Good news for lovers of all things tiny and alive: scientists have just discovered two new species of frogs that out-tiny all other frogs. These little critters live in the forests of Papua New Guinea and are each smaller than a single M&M.

Is Losing Animals Worth a Few Dollars?

Over on animal-fest.com, I have been going through a list of heritage breeds of farm animals. As I write about critically endangered rabbits, pigs and other livestock, I think about all of the animals we have lost over the years. According to some reports, the rate of extinction is ever increasing, and more species now are being wiped off the planet than ever before. This should receive more attention than it does, for this is one of the greatest tragedies of our time. Read more about Is Losing Animals Worth a Few Dollars?