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A similar bill failed to pass last year. Opponents of the revived legislation say it's a win for puppy mills and pet-store owners. (Adobe Stock)

Proposed IN law would bar cities from banning pet-store puppy sales

Some Hoosiers want Indiana lawmakers to rethink proposed legislation that would usurp existing local laws that prohibit retailers from selling puppies…

According to Facts.net, Scottish Terriers live between 11 and 13 years on average. Former presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and George W. Bush had them as beloved pets. (Adobe Stock)

IN researchers hope canine cancer study could help humans

Pets are often considered beloved family members, and like any loved one, their health is a priority. Research from Purdue University has found a …

According to the group Veterinarians.org, using FBI figures, Indiana ranked 7th among states in 2021 for the number of animal cruelty cases, with 627 incidents.(Adobe Stock)

Indiana Shelter Stresses Animal Kindness

Hoosiers are enjoying the arrival of summer, but it is not the only important event on the calendar this week. For more than 30 years, the third …

The temperature inside a parked car can soar to 100 degrees in just minutes on a 78-degree day.<br />(22lanika/Adobe Stock)

Dozens of Pets Die in Hot Weather Every Year

INDIANAPOLIS — Before sweltering summer temperatures set in, animal-advocacy groups are cautioning Hoosiers about the dangers of heat to pets…

Dogs with eye problems and dental disease were discovered in 2016 at an undisclosed Indiana breeding facility, according to a new report. (USDA)

Hoosier Puppy Mills Named Among "Horrible Hundred"

INDIANAPOLIS – Four Indiana dog breeders are named in a new "Horrible Hundred," report examining so-called puppy mills and dog sellers around th…

Patterns can make birds in flight take notice so they won't hit the glass. (abcbirds.org)

"Bird Friendly" Legislation Pending in D.C.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Millions of birds die every year because they can't tell reflections from reality, which means they smash full speed into …

Hoosiers are speaking up about confined feeding operation rules. (hecweb.org)

Hoosiers Speak Out Against Factory Farm Bill

INDIANAPOLIS – A bill that environmentalists say would weaken Indiana's laws regulating Confined Animal Feeding Operations, or CAFOs, is being …

Animal shelters across the nation are participating in an adoption drive this weekend called Clear the Shelters. (Herb Carter)

Indiana Animal Shelter Fetches Facebook's Attention

MUNCIE, Ind. – Facebook is taking the Pokemon Go craze all the way to the bank, or in this case all the way to the animal shelter. Facebook …

Study is underway on a drug that could extend the lives of dogs. (Virginia Carter)

Study: Extending Dogs' Lives

INDIANAPOLIS – Researchers are studying a drug that could extend the lives of dogs, and some day maybe even humans. They maintain the drug …

A new report calls for banning or restricting the use of antibiotics in farm animals. (Virginia Carter)

Report: Banning Antibiotics Will Curb Spread of Infections

INDIANAPOLIS - A new report recommends reducing the use of antibiotics in agriculture in order to slow the growth of harmful bacterial infections…

"Canned Hunting" Bill Likely To Become Law This Week

INDIANAPOLIS - Senate Bill 109, the so-called "Canned Hunting" bill, was sent to Gov. Mike Pence last week. He can sign it or take no action…

The smooth green snake is a tiny nonvenomous snake found in Indiana. It's getting extra attention from conservation groups in the Midwest because its habitat is threatened. (Chicago Wilderness)

Conservation Groups Helping Midwest Animal Species

INDIANAPOLIS – Twelve animal species that call the Midwest home are being championed by Chicago Wilderness, which is made up of more than 200 …

Of the 125,000 animals that end up in Indiana shelters, about 40 percent are euthanized. (Virginia Carter)

An Alternative to Euthanizing Thousands of Pets in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana is one of the few states without a mandatory spay and neuter law for cats and dogs, and those pushing legislation to make it …

Indiana ranks 15th nationally for its animal-protection laws. (Jason Gillman/morguefile)

The Cat's Meow? Indiana in the Top Tier for Animal Protection

INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana is in the top tier in an annual ranking of states with the best policies protecting animals, according to a new report…

Some say overpopulation has a serious impact on the environment. Credit: mzacha/morguefile

Humorous Approach to Addressing Overpopulation

INDIANAPOLIS - Today is World Vasectomy Day, and an environmental group wants men to consider, as they jokingly put it, "getting whacked for wildlife.…

The bald eagle is a success of the Endangered Species Act. Credit: Yathin S Krishnappa/Wikimedia

Hoosiers Strongly Support Protections for Endangered Animals

INDIANAPOLIS - Hoosiers like the Endangered Species Act, according to a poll of Indiana voters, and the support holds strong no matter their party …

If current conditions prevail, the wage gap between men and women is projected to continue until 2059. Credit: Mary Vogt/Morguefile.

Forty-Five More Years of Pay Inequity Expected for Women

INDIANAPOLIS – Women won't be paid as much as men until the year 2059, if current conditions prevail, according to a report by the Institute …

Four captive-hunting preserves in Indiana are operating under a court injunction. Credit: Eric Berthe/Morguefile

Lion's Demise Shines Light on Captive Hunting in IN

INDIANAPOLIS – The killing of a beloved lion by an American hunter in Africa sparked global outrage this summer, and it's also bringing to …

PHOTO: Bees are disappearing in Indiana and around the globe, which scientists say is caused by the prevalence of parasitic mites, viruses, fungal diseases and pesticides. Photo credit: Butkovicdub/Morguefile.

Indiana Bees Feeling Sting of Historic Declines

INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana bees are feeling the sting of a variety of environmental factors. David Shenefield, president of the Indiana Beekeepers …

PHOTO: Experts say the H3N2 strain of canine influenza is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in situations where animals are in close contact with each other. Photo credit: A. Schneider.

Canine Flu Reported in Indiana: What Dog Owners Should Know

INDIANAPOLIS - Fears of the flu for Fido are running high among many Indiana dog owners, thanks to a rare strain of canine influenza that has …

PHOTO: The U.S. Public Interest Research Group is calling on McDonald's to stop purchasing meat from animals raised using antibiotics. The fast-food giant says it is updating its purchasing policies this year. Photo credit: Alvimann/morguefile.

Will the "Golden Arches" Go Antibiotic-Free?

INDIANAPOLIS – The company known for its Golden Arches is being asked to make its burgers, chicken nuggets and other menu items antibiotic-free…

PHOTO: Under Senate Bill 226, exhibitors and breeders of such animals as bears, wild cats and wolves would be required to obtain a state permit that includes annual inspections. Photo credit: J. Durham/Morguefile.

Indiana Legislation would Tighten Rules for Owning Wild Animals

INDIANAPOLIS - An Indiana lawmaker wants to rein in owners of dangerous animals in the state. Senate Bill 226, proposed by Senator Michael Crider (R-…

PHOTO: The holiday season has unusual dangers for curious pets, from the Christmas tree to tinsel to a houseful of guests, so pet owners are being advised to take some simple precautions to keep them safe. Photo credit: Gpatgib/Morguefile.

Holiday Fun Can Spell Trouble for Dogs and Cats

INDIANAPOLIS - With all the food, festivities and decorations of the holiday season, keeping Fluffy or Fido safe can be a challenge. But furry family …

PHOTO: Workers in Indiana can help report cruelty and the abuse of farm animals with a new national tip line. Photo credit: Farm Sanctuary/Flickr.

Reward Money to Speak Out Against Farm Animal Abuse

INDIANAPOLIS - Whistleblowers in Indiana could earn a reward of up to $5,000 if their tip leads to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in the…

PHOTO: World Day for Farmed Animals is being observed in Indiana and around the globe to raise awareness about the treatment of animals killed for food. Photo credit: Sangamithra Iyer and Wan Park/wikimedia.

World Day for Farmed Animals: What's on Your Plate?

INDIANAPOLIS – Supporters of animal welfare in Indiana are speaking up today about the plight of animals on modern farms. As part of World Day …

PHOTO: Maintaining a healthy and diverse bird population in North America means paying more attention to what's happening far to the north, in Canada's boreal forest. Photo courtesy Boreal Songbird Initiative. Photo credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/ Bill Buchanan.

A Weekend to Celebrate Indiana's Feathered Friends

INDIANAPOLIS – From hummingbirds to wood warblers, Indiana is seeing large waves of birds as they migrate from the south right now. A new …

James Benham joined the new Indiana Agricultural Council with HSUS. Photo Courtesy of James Benham.

IN Family Farmers Join New Agriculture Council with HSUS

VERSAILLES, Ind. – Indiana is the seventh state to join forces with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) to form an agricultural …

PHOTO: Bunnies are a symbol of the season, but animal welfare advocates caution parents considering bringing one home for Easter to make a thoughtful decision that is best for the animal and the family. Photo credit: morguefile.com user bobby.

Parents: Stick With Stuffed or Candy Bunnies and Chicks for Easter

INDIANAPOLIS – Easter is almost upon us, and while some parents might be tempted to give their children live bunnies or baby chicks, animal …

PHOTO: While some Hoosiers voice concerns over health matters, those in favor of ordinances allowing backyard chickens say the birds are a sustainable food source and just as clean as any other pet. Photo credit: Jason Webber.

Backyard Chickens Growing in Popularity in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS – Raising chickens in the city is becoming increasingly popular as more Hoosiers move toward eating locally. Goshen officials …

PHOTO: A fast-moving virus has infected hogs in 43 of the state's counties and caused significant mortality. Photo credit: morgue file.

Fast-Moving Virus Infecting Hoosier Hogs

INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana's pork industry is facing a significant challenge. A quick-moving virus has infected hogs in nearly half of the state's …

PHOTO: Grass Carp have been found in unintended areas of the Great Lakes, leaving researchers concerned about their potentially destructive habits. Photo credit: US Geological Survey.

Grass Carp Overstaying Their Welcome in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS - Fish introduced into the Great Lakes to help manage weeds could be overstaying their welcome. Grass carp feed on aquatic plants…

PHOTO: Wendy�s is demanding quarterly reports from pork suppliers about their ability to provide pork produced without the use of gestation crates. Photo credit: Humane Society of the United States.

Wendy’s Demands Progress Reports on Elimination of Pig Crates

INDIANAPOLIS - The world's third-largest fast-food chain is making more strides toward elimination of controversial pig cages by the operations that s…

PHOTO: A hearing will be held today on Senate Bill 101, which could make felons out of whistleblowers exposing unethical or illegal activities on industrial farms. Photo courtesy of Kathleen Schatzmann.

“Ag-Gag” Legislation Back in Play in Indy

INDIANAPOLIS - So-called "Ag-gag" legislation is once again on the table at the Indiana State House. A hearing will be held today on Senate Bill 101…

PHOTO: Indiana's deer population is growing, and with it come concerns about overgrazing forests and increased risk of car-deer collisions on the roadways. Experts say it will take compromise and a coordinated effort to find the best solution. Photo credit: Matt Miller, The Nature Conservancy.

Expert Weighs In on Indiana's Deer Dilemma

INDIANAPOLIS - Many Hoosiers consider deer to be majestic creatures in nature, but some conservationists are voicing concerns about the dangers of …

PHOTO: The SeaWorld parade float depicts orcas in the wild. Critics say it isn't representative of SeaWorld's handling of the animals in captivity.

Opposition to SeaWorld Float in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

INDIANAPOLIS - Despite an online petition with more than 80,000 signatures and opposition from animal-welfare groups and celebrities, SeaWorld's …

Indianans Encouraged to "Get Smart About Antibiotics"

INDIANAPOLIS - Antibiotics save lives, but medical experts say their overuse has led to the development of resistant bacteria, making antibiotics …

PHOTO: An increase in fertilizer run-off from agriculture, along with more severe weather is leading to a larger number of reports of toxic algae blooms in the U-S. The algae can make people ill and kill animals or pets. CREDIT: Ben Townsend

Report: Toxic Algae Problems Become More Common Across the Country

INDIANAPOLIS - A new analysis shows a growing scourge of harmful algae blooms across the country. According to Andy Buchsbaum, director of the Great …

PHOTO: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicides in the U.S. continue their upward trend. CREDIT: Samantha Marx

Suicide Prevention Week Focuses on Awareness and Education

INDIANAPOLIS - Recognizing and treating depression are major steps toward preventing suicides, according to the Indiana/Ohio director of the American …

Farm Bill this week, and animal rights groups are saying an amendment to the bill introduced by Republican congressman Steve King of Iowa undermines animal-welfare laws passed in several states, including Indiana.

Animal Rights Activists Voice Concern Over Farm Bill Amendment

INDIANAPOLIS – Lawmakers in Washington continue to debate the 2013 Farm Bill. Animal rights groups are saying an amendment to the bill …

Naturalist David Mizejewski, National Wildlife Federation, said the best protection is prevention. That can come, in part, by eliminating standing pools of water around the outside of your home, he said. Courtesy of Joaquim Alves Gaspar

What Mosquitoes Have in Store for Indiana This Season

INDIANAPOLIS - They represent one of the signs of summer you may prefer to do without; mosquito season is underway in Indiana, and you can help …

Farm Bill Amendment Could Impact Animal Treatment in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS - Lawmakers are putting many "eggs" in the Farm Bill "basket" in Washington, one of which could affect the welfare of farm animals…

The FIDO Program – Saving Dogs and Rehabilitating Inmates

ANDERSON, Ind. - The FIDO program, started by Maleah Stringer, executive director of the Animal Protection League in Madison County, saves dogs that …

PHOTO: Three years after filing a petition to get the FDA to pull the approval of animal feed containing arsenic, several advocacy groups have now filed suit. They say the arsenic is not needed to raise animals and poses a public health risk. CREDIT: Norman Ack.

Lawsuit Seeks to Eliminate Arsenic in Animal Feed

INDIANAPOLIS - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is facing a lawsuit because it continues to allow a form of arsenic to be used in animal feed …

PHOTO: An IU Law professor is questioning the constitutionality of Indiana�s so-called Ag-Gag bill - a measure supporters say will protect farmers from exploitation by activist groups.

IU Law Prof: Indiana’s Ag-Gag Bill Likely Violates Constitution

INDIANAPOLIS - An Indiana University law professor is questioning the constitutionality of Indiana's so-called Ag-Gag bill, a measure supporters …

PHOTO: A bill before the Indiana legislature is trying to keep people from photographing or filming on farms without permission. Watch dog groups oppose it saying that it would hinder their efforts for public safety.

Hoosier Legislators Considering So-Called “Ag Gag” Bill

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Senate Bill 373 - the so-called "Ag Gag" bill - is meant to keep people from videotaping or photographing on farms or businesses …

PHOTO: Hunters are encouraged to be 'heart smart' during deer season. Photo courtesy of American Heart Association.

Indiana Hunters: Take Aim at Heart Safety

INDIANAPOLIS - Thousands of hunters are in the woods of Indiana this month, and the American Heart Association is encouraging them to be "heart …

Every year, hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats are diagnosed with cancer. Image by � Royalty-Free/Corbis

"2 Million Dogs" to Combat Canine Cancer

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Man's best friend could be man's best hope for a cure to cancer. The group 2 Million Dogs is asking Hoosiers to "Puppy Up" in …

PHOTO: Bats get a bad rap, but farmers need them.

Bats Get A Bad Rap – But They’re Really In Trouble

INDIANAPOLIS - Over the past several years, a fungus causing a disease called white nose syndrome has killed up to 6.7 million bats in North America…

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IN: Animal Welfare