Animal Cruelty

For fans of Dr. Seuss who remember the author’s love of animals, it will come as no surprise that pets take center stage in the latest work by Theodor Seuss Geisel.

What Pet Should I Get?, the newly released book by the beloved children’s writer, captures the excitement—and indecision—of a brother-sister duo as they choose the family pet. The book’s afterword details Geisel’s fondness for the animals he cared for during his life and notes the importance of pet adoption and animal care.

Since the ASPCA’s 2014 announcement of our $25 million, multi-year commitment to saving animals in Los Angeles, we have had the privilege of teaming up with many of LA’s most committed animal advocates to make a positive impact for thousands of cats and dogs in the area. One way in which we’re making a difference is by empowering community members to assist homeless pets in their own neighborhoods. Recently, two LA families did just that.

Following a successful two-day adoption event, which drew more than 900 people and found homes for more than 200 animals, the ASPCA is transporting the remaining animals rescued in late June from Lawrence County Animal Shelter in Moulton, Alabama, to various animal welfare agencies in 10 states across the country.

In a pivotal decision, a federal judge in Idaho has ruled that an ag-gag law violates the first and fourteenth amendments of the U.S. Constitution, striking this terrible law from the books. This is the first time a court has ruled on the constitutionality of an ag-gag law, and the ASPCA is hopeful that this decision will mark the beginning of the end of these dangerous laws.

By Matt Bershadker, ASPCA CEO

When most people think about animal rescues, they probably visualize professional responders and advocates coming to the aid of dogs, cats, and other animals in desperate and sometimes abusive situations. But this equation leaves out a third party that’s absolutely crucial to saving lives: The community.