Tag Archives: Pets and Veterinary

Southern California Dog Finley from Pet Friendly Paw Life Wins Best in California, Competing for Best in Nation in the Pet Lovers Choice Awards

SAN DIEGO, Calif., July 14, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Pet Friendly Paw Life Pomeranian Finley has won the title of Best in California in the Pet Lovers Choice Awards and is now competing for Best in Nation. Vote for California dog Finley to win the national title, the voting round lasts from July 14th through July 22nd. The event benefits rescue Best Friends Animal Society with official media partner USA Today Pets.

Photo caption: Finley, Pomeranian from Pet Friendly Paw Life, Best in California Winner for the 2026 Pet Lovers Choice Awards.

Small but mighty 6 lb. tri-color Pomeranian Finley is a paw ambassador for Pet Friendly Paw Life, where he helps his paw family discover and feature dog friendly destinations across southern California and beyond. @PetFriendlyPawLife quickly grew to over 60,000 followers and subscribers across Instagram, Facebook and YouTube combined in just over 6 months thanks to highlighting dog friendly restaurants, hotels, shops, events and experiences across California. Finley and his Pomeranian sister Cocoa feature in all the Pet Friendly Paw Life highlights, giving them their Paw Approved and Two Paws Up stamps of approval.

Finley has his own survivor story, where he was rejected by his biological dog mom and needed to be hand fed as a puppy, growing up very attached to his human paw mom Pebbles and paw dad Robert. It’s for this reason that Pebbles decided to start Pet Friendly Paw Life, because Finley would insist on joining his paw family everywhere. Pet Friendly Paw Life quickly gained a strong local Southern California following, which helped propel Finley to win the Best in California title, beating thousands of entrants.

Finley was present at the 2026 Pet Lovers Choice Awards Best in State live taping and even got his paw-15 minutes of fame on the stage with comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias and Emmy Award-winning broadcaster Monica McNutt. Little Finley is now collaborating on a music video with local Temecula musician Joanna Pearl to her song, “Authentically Me” from her latest album, available on iTunes and Spotify. Follow @PetFriendlyPawLife on Instagram and/or YouTube to see the video debut!

To Vote for Finley visit https://petloverschoiceawards.com/contestant/60404?contest=79

To learn more visit https://www.petfriendlypawlife.com/

ABOUT PET FRIENDLY PAW LIFE:

Pebbles Vadakan started Pet Friendly Paw Life in late 2025 to feature dog friendly locales and products across southern California and the occasional road trip, with a focus on Los Angeles, San Diego, Temecula Wine Country, Orange County and Fallbrook. The main social channels on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube quickly gained over 20,000 followers each (60,000+ combined) thanks to engaging videos choreographed to music, adorable Pomeranian paw ambassadors Finley and Cocoa, and local event round-ups that have become a popular staple within the dog friendly community.

The first event for Pet Friendly Paw Life is taking place August 23, 2026 at Cougar Winery in Temecula Wine Country, titled “Paws, Pours and Pop-Ups,” in collaboration with several other local dog influencers (Pug Moms Club, Stormi’s Furever Friends, OC Yorkies and Tiny Dog Club and San Diego Pomeranians).

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Photo caption: Finley, Pomeranian from Pet Friendly Paw Life, Best in California Winner for the 2026 Pet Lovers Choice Awards.

LOGO link: https://static.wixstatic.com/media/25fc86_2f42cad9b8f74accaedad774dd1e0f44~mv2.png

NEWS SOURCE: Pet Friendly Paw Life

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Pet Friendly Paw Life), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/southern-california-dog-finley-from-pet-friendly-paw-life-wins-best-in-california-competing-for-best-in-nation-in-the-pet-lovers-choice-awards/

National Champions Crowned During 2026 Pygmy Goat Convention, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the NPGA

Champion Buck, Doe and Wether awarded highest honor during 50th anniversary celebration

SEATTLE, Wash., June 30, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) is proud to announce the National Champion Buck, Doe and Wether for 2026. Hosted by the Ohio Pygmy Goat Association, the Golden Jubilee National Convention held in Owensville, Ohio June 19-21, not only celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the NPGA, it also brought together the best animals from across the country to compete in the Champion Challenge.

Image caption: (L-R) Platinum Wether Country Critters Dayne; PGCH Doe Morgan Crossing Sancy; Buck Hass’ Happy Herd Mr Bojangles.

In order to compete for National Champion in the Buck Class a buck must be a Permanent Grand Champion (having won Grand Champion Buck four times). In the Doe Class, a doe must also be a Permanent Grand Champion (having won Grand Champion three times). In the Wether Class, a wether (castrated male), must be a Bronze Certificate Wether or higher, (having won Best Wether three or more times).

The National Champion Buck is Hass’ Happy Herd Mr Bojangles owned by Deb and Carrie Graf and Heather and Michael Putman from Rensselaer, IN. Mr Bojangles was bred by Betsy Hasselbach. First runner up is Polk Springs Morgan owned and bred by Grant and Sally Rogers. Second runner up is Channel Acres Cantbelieveitsnotbutr owned and bred by George, Susan and Hannah Neal.

“First thing I felt was relief after many months of work to get to this stage. It was a very special moment to have this animal be chosen and be a part of the first national champion bred by Betsy,” said Michael Putman.

The National Champion Doe is Morgan Crossing Sancy, owned by Bryson and Donna Staley from Liberty, NC. Sancy was bred by Eva Morgan. First runner up is Burntwood Farms Love Child bred and owned by Doug and Lisa Bragg. Second runner up is Holy Goats Perisha bred and owned by Eva Lowe.

“It’s a real honor to raise a doe from another breeder and watch her grow. I love seeing her succeed at a high level,” said Bryson Staley.

The National Champion Wether is Platinum Wether Country Critters Dayne owned by Lauren Nelson from West Union, SC and bred by Karen Crawford. First runner up is Rocking 3W Atomic Bomb bred and owned by Taylor Whitney. Second runner up is American Heritage Olaf owned by Avery Linville and bred by Tina Anderson.

“I was caught off guard; I wasn’t expecting it. I love my Dayne, super proud of him,” said Lauren Nelson. “He’s only been to 2 National Challenges and both times he’s walked away with a title. In 2023 Red Bluff, California he was 1st runner up. Now on the East Coast, at almost 5yrs old he wins the National Championship Wether! South Carolina has been great for Dayne! He looks amazing! Thank you to my mom, who works hard for NPGA and keeps our herd looking amazing! Love you momma!”

“It was amazing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the NPGA with our members, breeders, exhibitors and friends during the National Convention,” said Darren Watkins, President of the National Pygmy Goat Association. “Congratulations to the winners, they’re all beautiful animals.”

About National Pygmy Goat Association

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official breed association of the American Pygmy Goat. The organization was founded April 23, 1976 and promotes pygmy goats by setting official breed standards, provides animal registration, maintains a database of pedigrees, certifies judges, and sanctions pygmy goat shows around the United States. For more information visit https://npga-pygmy.com/

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Image caption: (L-R) Platinum Wether Country Critters Dayne; PGCH Doe Morgan Crossing Sancy; Buck Hass’ Happy Herd Mr Bojangles.

NEWS SOURCE: National Pygmy Goat Association

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (National Pygmy Goat Association), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/national-champions-crowned-during-2026-pygmy-goat-convention-celebrating-the-50th-anniversary-of-the-npga/

Accepted, Not Denied, Never Decided: California Ferret Petition Remains Unresolved After 378 Days

Petitioners say State's inaction has left them with fewer rights than if the petition had been denied

LA MESA, Calif., June 25, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Three hundred seventy-eight days after the California Fish and Game Commission unanimously voted to give further consideration to a petition seeking removal of domestic ferrets from California’s restricted species list, the petition remains unresolved, says Legalize Ferrets (Legalizeferrets.org).

Photo caption: Dino pauses for a photo while exploring his favorite room in the house – the laundry room. More than a year after California regulators voted to consider Petition 2025-003, the petition remains unresolved.

No recommendation has been issued. No determination has been provided to the petitioner. No final action has been taken.

Petitioners argue that the result is a procedural dead end: had the petition been denied, they could have sought judicial review. Instead, the petition was accepted and referred for evaluation, but remains unresolved more than a year later.

“The unusual part of this case is that acceptance of the petition appears to have left us with fewer practical remedies than a denial would have,” said Pat Wright, founder of LegalizeFerrets.org. “Had the petition been rejected, we could have challenged that decision. Instead, it was accepted, referred, and then left unresolved.”

A PETITION ACCEPTED BUT NEVER DECIDED

On June 11, 2025, the Fish and Game Commission voted unanimously to give further consideration to Petition 2025-003 and referred the matter to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for evaluation.

Had the Commission denied the petition, petitioners could have pursued available legal remedies. Had the petition proceeded through the normal administrative process, the Department would have completed its review and returned a recommendation to the Commission.

Instead, 378 days later, the petition remains pending without a final determination.

Petitioners contend that the State’s inaction has created a situation in which the administrative process has stalled while no final agency decision exists for a court to review.

PUBLIC RECORDS RAISE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

Seeking to understand the status of the petition, petitioners submitted multiple requests under the California Public Records Act.

In response to an April 2026 records request, the Department reported that no responsive records existed. A later records request produced internal documents showing the petition was known to Department personnel and appeared on an internal petitions agenda.

Meeting notes from an April 29, 2026 petitions meeting show discussion of several petitions. The notation for the ferret petition states only: “No discussion.”

Records produced to date have revealed no documented recommendation, evaluation, or analysis of Petition 2025-003.

Additional records revealed litigation-hold communications relating to the petition and subsequent litigation.

THE QUESTION BEFORE THE COURT

The litigation does not ask the court to legalize ferrets.

Instead, the case seeks judicial review of whether state agencies have fulfilled their legal obligations after accepting a petition for consideration.

According to filings in the case, the State argues that petitioners generally must await final agency action before seeking judicial review. Petitioners argue that because no final action has ever been taken, they have been left in procedural limbo—unable to obtain a decision from the agency while simultaneously being told there is no final decision to challenge.

“The question extends beyond ferrets,” Wright said. “If an agency can accept a petition and then simply never complete the process, the public’s right to petition government becomes largely meaningless. Citizens should be entitled to an answer.”

TIMELINE

June 11, 2025
Fish and Game Commission votes unanimously to give further consideration to Petition 2025-003 and refers it to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

April 2026
Department responds to a Public Records Act request stating that no responsive records exist.

May–June 2026
Additional Public Records Act requests produce internal records, petitions meeting notes, and litigation-hold communications.

March 19, 2026
Petitioners file a writ action in Sacramento County Superior Court seeking judicial intervention.

June 24, 2026
Petition remains unresolved 378 days after referral.

ABOUT THE PETITION

Petition 2025-003 seeks removal of domestic ferrets from California’s restricted species list. Domestic ferrets are legal pets in 48 states. California remains one of only two states that prohibit private ownership.

ABOUT LEGALIZEFERRETS.ORG

Legalize Ferrets (LegalizeFerrets.org) is a California-based advocacy organization dedicated to ending California’s prohibition on domestic ferrets through legislation, administrative reform, public education, transparency, and legal action. Learn more: https://legalizeferrets.org/.

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NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Legalize Ferrets), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/accepted-not-denied-never-decided-california-ferret-petition-remains-unresolved-after-378-days/

California’s Response to Ferret Lawsuit Raises Questions About Agency Authority and Petition Rights

LA MESA, Calif., May 11, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — LegalizeFerrets.org says a new phase has emerged in California’s long-running ferret controversy after the California Fish and Game Commission and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife filed demurrers in response to a lawsuit involving Petition 2025-003 — a citizen petition seeking reconsideration of California’s classification of domestic ferrets as restricted animals.

Image caption: California’s response to the Petition 2025-003 lawsuit is raising questions about whether agencies may indefinitely delay citizen petitions — and whether the Fish and Game Commission believes it possesses authority to legalize ferrets.

The lawsuit, filed in Sacramento Superior Court, centers on whether California agencies may indefinitely leave formally accepted citizen petitions under “further consideration” without issuing a meaningful determination.

But the State’s response has also raised an additional issue.

According to the filings, the State appears to leave open the argument that the Fish and Game Commission may not possess authority to legalize ferrets through regulation — despite California having treated ferret legalization for decades as a regulatory matter handled through the Commission process.

“For years, Californians were told ferret legalization had to go through the Fish and Game Commission,” said Pat Wright of LegalizeFerrets.org. “Now the State appears to be suggesting the Commission may not even possess authority to do what it has spent decades reviewing, debating, and processing through regulatory channels.”

Petition 2025-003 was formally accepted by the Commission for “further consideration” in June 2025 and referred to the Department of Fish and Wildlife for review and recommendation.

After months passed without an apparent substantive decision, Public Records Act requests were submitted seeking records showing what evaluation work had been performed. The responses to those requests ultimately contributed to the filing of the writ lawsuit now before the court.

The State’s demurrer argues that the Commission satisfied its obligations under California’s Administrative Procedure Act (APA) by accepting the petition, discussing it publicly, and referring it internally for further review.

Supporters of the petition argue that such an interpretation risks undermining the practical purpose of California’s petition process.

“If agencies can indefinitely refer petitions internally without producing meaningful outcomes, Californians have a right to ask what the petition process actually guarantees,” Wright said.

The dispute also highlights language already contained within California regulations. Title 14, Section 671 states:

“The California Fish and Game Commission has determined the below listed animals are not normally domesticated in this state.”

The regulation includes the Mustelidae family, which includes ferrets.

Supporters argue that language raises a central question: if the Commission possessed authority to determine ferrets were “not normally domesticated,” why would it lack authority to revisit or reconsider that determination?

The court is not currently deciding whether ferrets should be legalized in California. The immediate issue before the court is whether the lawsuit may proceed and whether California agencies must provide meaningful responses to formally accepted petitions for regulatory change.

Additional background and analysis regarding the lawsuit and the State’s filing are available at:
https://www.legalizeferrets.org/california-ferret-legalization-lawsuit/

About LegalizeFerrets.org

LegalizeFerrets.org is an advocacy organization focused on educating the public about domestic ferrets and pursuing regulatory and legal efforts related to California’s long-standing ferret restrictions.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Pat Wright
LegalizeFerrets.org
CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org
https://www.legalizeferrets.org/

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NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/californias-response-to-ferret-lawsuit-raises-questions-about-agency-authority-and-petition-rights/

National Pygmy Goat Association Celebrates 50th Anniversary with National Pygmy Goat Day on April 23rd

Events across the country will mark association's anniversary

SEATTLE, Wash., April 21, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) is celebrating its 50th anniversary on April 23rd, National Pygmy Goat Day. Members and affiliated clubs are planning events throughout the country to celebrate the day and showcase their Pygmy Goats as useful livestock and multi-purpose miniature goats that are just plain fun!

Image caption: National Pygmy Goat Association Celebrates 50th Anniversary.

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official breed registry for Pygmy Goats and the national organization serving Pygmy Goat owners and enthusiasts. Formed in 1976, the NPGA’s mission is to foster growth of the Pygmy Goat in the United States by promoting responsible breeding practices, supporting educational initiatives and cultivating a collaborative community dedicated to the advancement and sustainability of the breed.

Not all little goats are Pygmy Goats. Pygmy Goats are a specific breed derived from the Cameroon’s or West African Dwarf Goat. The first Pygmy Goats were brought to the United States in 1959 for use in research and petting zoos. According to the NPGA Breed Standard, the Pygmy Goat is hardy, alert and animated, good-natured and gregarious, a docile, responsive pet, a cooperative provider of milk, and an ecologically effective browser.

“We are so excited to mark this major milestone in our history,” said Darren Watkins, President of the National Pygmy Goat Association. “As the official registry for Pygmy Goats, we invite the public to visit a sanctioned show or fair and learn more about the breed from our wonderful and knowledgeable members.”

For more information or a list of shows, visit https://npga-pygmy.com/

ABOUT NATIONAL PYGMY GOAT ASSOCIATION

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official breed association of the Pygmy Goat. The organization was founded April 23, 1976 and promotes pygmy goats by setting official breed standards, provides animal registration, maintains a database of pedigrees, certifies judges, and sanctions pygmy goat shows around the United States. For more information visit https://npga-pygmy.com/

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Image caption: National Pygmy Goat Association Celebrates 50th Anniversary

NEWS SOURCE: National Pygmy Goat Association

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/national-pygmy-goat-association-celebrates-50th-anniversary-with-national-pygmy-goat-day-on-april-23rd/

National Pygmy Goat Association Celebrates 50th Anniversary with National Pygmy Goat Day on April 23rd

Events across the country will mark association's anniversary

Image caption: National Pygmy Goat Association Celebrates 50th Anniversary.

For more information or a list of shows, visit https://npga-pygmy.com/

ABOUT NATIONAL PYGMY GOAT ASSOCIATION

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Image caption: National Pygmy Goat Association Celebrates 50th Anniversary

NEWS SOURCE: National Pygmy Goat Association

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/national-pygmy-goat-association-celebrates-50th-anniversary-with-national-pygmy-goat-day-on-april-23rd/

California Resident Files Writ of Mandate Regarding State Ferret Ban

Domestic ferrets are legal to own in 48 U.S. states, yet California continues to maintain a prohibition

LA MESA, Calif., March 18, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Pat Wright, a California resident and advocate for ferret legalization, and founder of LegalizeFerrets.org, has filed a Petition for Writ of Mandate in Sacramento County Superior Court against the California Fish and Game Commission and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Image caption: Domestic ferrets are widely kept as companion animals and are legal household pets in 48 U.S. states.

The petition asks the court to compel the agencies to comply with their duties under the California Administrative Procedure Act in response to Petition 2025-003, which challenges the continued classification of domestic ferrets as prohibited animals in California.

Domestic ferrets are legal to own in 48 U.S. states, yet California continues to maintain a prohibition that originated in early importation regulations adopted in 1933.

Under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, section 671, ferrets are prohibited because they are categorized as animals “not normally domesticated in this state.” Historical materials describing the regulatory history of ferrets in California indicate that this determination appeared in regulatory language adopted in 1988, stating that the Commission had determined the listed animals were not normally domesticated in California.

A chronology of California’s ferret regulations appears in Appendix II: History of California Regulations / Policies Pertaining to Ferrets, compiled from multiple sources including Kizer and Constantine (1989), Weisser (1991), Moore and Whisson (1998), Herman (2000), Graening (2010), and California Department of Fish and Game records.

In June 2025, the California Fish and Game Commission unanimously accepted Petition 2025-003 for consideration and referred it to the Department of Fish and Wildlife for review.

According to Wright, the agencies have not yet issued a formal response to the petition.

Seeking to understand what work had been conducted in response to the petition, Wright submitted California Public Records Act requests for documents describing the Department’s review.

“The Department responded that it may take up to 90 days to produce records showing what actions have been taken,” Wright said.

Wright argues that the pace of response contrasts with how the Commission has handled other petitions.

In a recent case involving Asian water buffalo, the Commission completed the petition review process in approximately eight and a half months.

“The Commission accepted Petition 2025-003 last June,” Wright said. “We are simply asking the agencies to perform the review and provide the response required under California law.”

The lawsuit asks the court to order the agencies to perform their statutory duties and properly respond to Petition 2025-003.

The filed petition and supporting notice can be viewed here: (PDF) https://www.legalizeferrets.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Writ-and-Exhibit-A.pdf

Additional information about the petition and the effort to legalize ferrets in California can be found at: https://www.legalizeferrets.org

MEDIA CONTACT
Pat Wright
LegalizeFerrets.org
619-303-0645 or cell 619-757-7426

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Image caption: Domestic ferrets are widely kept as companion animals and are legal household pets in 48 U.S. states.

NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/california-resident-files-writ-of-mandate-regarding-state-ferret-ban/

Petco Love Invests $15,000 in Sacramento SPCA to Save and Improve the Lives of Pets in Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 26, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Sacramento SPCA received a $15,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for pets in Sacramento. For nearly 30 years, the Sacramento SPCA has operated a low-cost spay and neuter clinic dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation. Today, the shelter’s Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center ranks in the nation’s top five clinics performing high-volume spay and neuter surgeries at a single location, providing high-quality care at scale in South Sacramento.

Photo caption: A litter of puppies who were recently spayed and neutered at the Sacramento SPCA.

“This investment by Petco Love allows us to continue providing affordable spay and neuter services for our community, reducing pet overpopulation across shelters throughout our region and saving more lives,” said Jennifer Brent, CEO of the Sacramento SPCA.

In 2025, the shelter altered 21,733 animals, including more than 6,800 community cats, catapulting the shelter past a 350,000-surgery milestone. In addition, the clinic received four national Snippy Award nominations for their lifesaving leadership in high-volume spay and neuter, vaccinations, microchips, and being a champion for community cats.

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested more than $430 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations — like ours — across North America, with more than 7.1 million pets adopted and counting.

“Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $12M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Chelsea Staley, President of Petco Love. “Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We launched Petco Love Lost, a free national lost and found database that uses photo-matching technology to simplify the search for lost pets.”

“As the region’s only full-service, 100% nonprofit animal shelter, we are honored to be a national leader in providing low-cost and no-cost spay and neuter services to those who need them most in Sacramento—serving the public, partner shelters, rescue organizations, and community cat advocates,” said Brent. “We are deeply grateful for the support of our community—individuals, local businesses, and foundations—who make this lifesaving care possible for pets and the people who love them.”

ABOUT THE SACRAMENTO SPCA

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 134 years. We provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

ABOUT PETCO LOVE

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999, we’ve empowered animal welfare organizations by investing more than $430 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We’ve helped find loving homes for more than 7.1 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide. Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Join us. Visit https://petcolove.org/ or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

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Photo caption: A litter of puppies who were recently spayed and neutered at the Sacramento SPCA.

NEWS SOURCE: Sacramento SPCA

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Sacramento SPCA), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/petco-love-invests-15000-in-sacramento-spca-to-save-and-improve-the-lives-of-pets-in-sacramento/

Run 2 The Rescue Featured in PEOPLE – Major National Spotlight Amplifies Mission to Save Dogs from China’s Dog Meat Trade

Since launching roughly 18 months ago, Run 2 The Rescue has saved over 220 dogs

NEW YORK, N.Y., Feb. 17, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Run 2 The Rescue, a Sag Harbor–based nonprofit with rescue operations and a shelter in Beijing, China, has been featured in PEOPLE in an exclusive story highlighting the dramatic transformation of Kronk, an injured Malamute rescued from the dog meat trade.

Photo caption: Kronk healthy and happy in his new home, and his new role as the new Run 2 The Rescue Ambassador.

The PEOPLE feature details Kronk’s survival and recovery after he was found severely underweight with impaired mobility, including injuries consistent with multiple untreated skull fractures and neurological damage. After intensive veterinary care and rehabilitation coordinated by Run 2 The Rescue, Kronk later traveled to the U.S. in summer 2025 and was ultimately adopted by Run 2 The Rescue co-founder Brandy Cherven.

A feature in PEOPLE represents a major milestone in national visibility: PEOPLE’s digital platform draws massive monthly readership reporting 187+ million monthly visits as of mid-2025. This coverage substantially expands awareness of Run 2 The Rescue’s work — and accelerates support for urgent rescues still underway in China.

“Kronk is the kind of dog most people would overlook because his story starts in such darkness — but that’s exactly why we exist,” said Brandy Cherven, Co-Founder of Run 2 The Rescue. “When PEOPLE tells that story, it doesn’t just spotlight one dog. It shines a light on what’s happening in China and what rescue can do when people step in.”

Attorney and co-founder Bonnie Klapper added: “Our mission is simple: get them out, get them safe, get them healing — and then fight for the kind of future they’ve never known. We’re grateful to PEOPLE for bringing credibility and scale to this issue, and to readers everywhere who choose compassion over helplessness.”

The story was written by Kelli Bender, PEOPLE’s Pets Editor, who has 15 years of experience covering pet and entertainment stories and has been with PEOPLE for more than a decade.

Since launching roughly 18 months ago, Run 2 The Rescue has saved over 220 dogs, providing emergency medical intervention, rehabilitation, and adoption placement — often for animals pulled from extreme neglect and high-risk situations.

To learn more about Run 2 The Rescue: https://run2therescue.com/

READ THE PEOPLE FEATURE

PEOPLE story: https://people.com/injured-malamute-with-crooked-head-transforms-after-dog-meat-farm-rescue-11904110

ABOUT RUN 2 THE RESCUE

Run 2 The Rescue is a New York-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue organization with active rescue operations and sheltering in Beijing, China. The organization rescues abused, abandoned, and at-risk dogs—providing medical care, rehabilitation, and international adoption support to give each animal a true second chance. https://run2therescue.com/adopt/

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Photo caption: Kronk healthy and happy in his new home, and his new role as the new Run 2 The Rescue Ambassador.

NEWS SOURCE: Run 2 The Rescue

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Run 2 The Rescue), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/run-2-the-rescue-featured-in-people-major-national-spotlight-amplifies-mission-to-save-dogs-from-chinas-dog-meat-trade/

Real-World Police Experience Drives 4,000+ Elite Protection and Security Dog Placements Worldwide

ARGYLE, Texas, Jan. 27, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Scott’s K9 has reached a significant milestone with over 4,000 dogs trained and placed globally. These protection dogs for sale range from police and government contract placements to private protection dogs. This is an achievement founder, Steve Scott, attributes to a differentiator most protection dog companies lack: authentic police K9 experience applied to family protection.

Image caption: Elite trained protection dogs.

Unlike typical protection dog trainers, Scott’s K9 bridges two worlds rarely combined in the civilian market. Scott served as head trainer of his police department’s K9 Unit after military deployments across Europe, where he refined advanced K-9 dog training methods and cultivated relationships with elite European kennels that supply working dogs to law enforcement and military units, worldwide.

“Our competitive advantage is straightforward,” Scott explains. “We apply real-world police K9 training methodologies to family protection dogs. Most companies in this space lack actual law enforcement experience. We’ve trained dogs that have to perform under genuine life-threatening conditions, and we bring that expertise to every family placement.”

Scott notes that when his daughter attended Texas A&M a Malinois was by her side.

So, how does Scott’s law enforcement background manifest? It does so in several ways:

Dual-capability training: Scott’s K9 dogs provide both genuine family companionship and elite-level protection — a balance that requires understanding how working dogs perform in unpredictable real-world scenarios, not just controlled training environments.

Comprehensive family integration: Drawing from police K9 handler training protocols, Scott personally instructs clients, their children and family members on proper deployment of their protection dogs in various situations — teaching civilians to work with their dogs the way law enforcement handlers do.

No-nonsense approach: Scott’s training philosophy reflects his police background which includes direct, practical instruction focused on what families actually need to know and eliminates the marketing rhetoric common in the luxury protection dog industry.

The milestone comes as client inquiries have jumped 47 percent over two years, driven by increased security concerns among high-profile individuals and families in remote estates. Industry observers note that professionally trained protection dogs offer security advantages that alarm systems cannot replicate — a trained dog provides judgment, deterrence and protective capability that technology alone cannot deliver.

Image caption: Scott’s K9.

Scott’s K9’s comprehensive approach, rigorous temperament testing, obedience training and specialized protection work, has established new industry standards in professional security dog placement, with placements now spanning six continents among Fortune 500 executives, high-net-worth families, law enforcement agencies and corporate security teams.

“This milestone validates our approach but doesn’t change our mission,” Scott says. “Our goal is making professional-grade security dog placement accessible to more clients who understand the difference between marketing and genuine protection capability.”

Scott’s K9 continues working exclusively with select breeders across Europe and North America, ensuring each dog meets rigorous health, temperament and working ability standards before beginning specialized training.

Each protection dog is priced at $150,000 USD. They do not offer tiers, levels or sell partial protection and all dogs are trained to one uncompromising global standard. This exceeds what the industry refers to as Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 protection dogs.

ABOUT SCOTT’S K9

In business for 20 years, Scott’s K9 is a premier provider of elite protection dogs based in Argyle, Texas. Founded by Steve Scott, a U.S. Army veteran and former head trainer of a police department K9 Unit, the company serves executives, families, estates and agencies worldwide.

MORE INFORMATION:

Visit: https://scottsk9.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

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Photo caption: Elite trained protection dogs.

NEWS SOURCE: Scott's K9

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Scott's K9), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/real-world-police-experience-drives-4000-elite-protection-and-security-dog-placements-worldwide/

Run 2 The Rescue Featured by The Dodo – International Spotlight on Beijing-Based Dog Rescue Sparks Global Support

NEW YORK, N.Y., Jan. 6, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Run 2 The Rescue, a U.S. based nonprofit with rescue operations in Beijing, China, has been thrust onto the international stage after being featured by The Dodo — one of the world’s largest and most influential animal advocacy media platforms — in a moving story and viral video highlighting the rescue of a severely neglected dog.

Image caption: This is Kronk arriving in the USA. The disabled dog saved from East Asia’s dog meat trade who was featured in The Dodo article, alongside of Brandy Cherven, Co-Founder and CEO of Run 2 The Rescue.

The feature chronicles the emotional rehabilitation of a dog who spent nearly his entire life confined to a small cage, isolated and forgotten, before being saved by Run 2 The Rescue’s Beijing rescue team. The story has quickly gained worldwide attention, drawing a wave of new supporters and adopters from across the globe.

Being featured by The Dodo, places Run 2 The Rescue among an elite group of animal welfare organizations recognized for extraordinary impact, transparency, and lifesaving work.

“This is more than just a story — it’s a window into what these animals endure, and what is possible when compassion meets action,” said Brandy Cherven, Co-Founder of Run 2 The Rescue. “We rescue dogs that most people will never see and it gives them the second chance they were never supposed to have. Having The Dodo tell that story to the world is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for these animals.”

Added Cherven, “Our rescue’s name was named after the song lyrics by the late River Phoenix, who was a wonderful activist for the animals like his brother, Joaquin. The lyrics are ‘Run To The Rescue With Love, And Peace Will Follow.'”

Run 2 The Rescue was founded by Brandy Cherven and attorney Bonnie Klapper to address the extreme neglect, abandonment, and abuse faced by dogs in China — many of whom are saved from deplorable conditions, illegal breeding operations, or the meat trade. Their Beijing-based shelter provides emergency veterinary care, behavioral rehabilitation, and international adoption placement.

“Every dog we rescue carries trauma — and hope,” said Bonnie Klapper, Co-Founder of Run 2 The Rescue. “This recognition brings global visibility to a crisis most people don’t realize is happening, and it gives these animals a real chance at the loving homes they deserve.”

Since the release of The Dodo’s video, Run 2 The Rescue has seen a surge in adoption inquiries and volunteer outreach from around the world — giving them the opportunity to hopefully save even more lives in 2026 and beyond.

The full feature can be viewed on The Dodo’s website and social media channel: https://www.thedodo.com/broken-dog-who-spent-his-life-in-a-cage-has-no-idea-hes-a-little-different

ABOUT RUN 2 THE RESCUE

Run 2 The Rescue is a New York-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue organization with active rescue operations in Beijing, China. The organization specializes in rescuing abused, abandoned, and at-risk dogs, providing medical care, rehabilitation, and international adoption placement to give every animal a true second chance.

Learn more, adopt, or to help with a donation, go to:
https://run2therescue.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Brandy Cherven
Co-Founder, Run 2 The Rescue
brandy@run2therescue.com

IMAGE LINK for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/26-0105-s2p-brandyrun2-300dpi.webp

NEWS SOURCE: Run 2 The Rescue

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/run-2-the-rescue-featured-by-the-dodo-international-spotlight-on-beijing-based-dog-rescue-sparks-global-support/

California’s Ferret Ban: Inherited in 1933 – Never Determined

Newly Released Records Show No Evidence-Based Decision Ever Made

SAN DIEGO, Calif., Oct. 21, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — After nearly eight months of waiting for public records, Legalize Ferrets (LegalizeFerrets.org) has obtained internal California Fish and Game Commission documents confirming that California’s ban on domestic ferrets was never based on scientific or administrative findings.

Image caption: California’s Ferret Ban: Inherited in 1933 – Never Determined.

The newly released materials trace the prohibition back to 1933, when the Commission simply declared that it “absolutely prohibits importation of ferret and fitch.” No hearing, no environmental study, and no determination of domestication ever took place.

“Ferrets are banned because they are not ‘normally domesticated in this state,’ and they are not ‘normally domesticated in this state’ because they are banned,” said Pat Wright of LegalizeFerrets.org. “It’s circular logic that has gone unchallenged for ninety years.”

A TIMELINE OF BUREAUCRATIC INHERITANCE

1933: Rules and Regulations Governing the Importation of Wild Birds and Animals — Commission “absolutely prohibits importation of ferret and fitch.”
1975: Fish & Game Code §2116 amended to add “not normally domesticated,” and ferrets were automatically labeled as such — again with no hearing or evidence.
Today: The current ban remains a direct descendant of those early rules, never revisited through modern, evidence-based review.

“These documents prove the ban was inherited, not determined,” Wright said. “There was never a factual finding that ferrets are wild animals — just 1930s boilerplate carried forward.”

LEGALIZATION EFFORT GAINS TRACTION UNDER THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES ACT

The campaign for ferret legalization gained new traction this year after LegalizeFerrets.org formally invoked California’s Administrative Procedures Act (APA).

Under the APA, state agencies must base decisions on scientific evidence, follow transparent procedures, and allow public comment before adopting or maintaining a regulation.

“This law finally puts the issue where it belongs — in the light of science and public participation,” Wright explained. “For the first time, the Commission is being required to justify its classification of domestic ferrets under modern standards.”

PETITION 2025-003 MOVES FORWARD

On June 11, 2025, the California Fish and Game Commission voted unanimously to accept Petition 2025-003 for further consideration. The petition seeks to remove domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) from the prohibited species list — the first formal step toward a scientific, evidence-based review.

“The issue is simple,” Wright said. “Are domestic ferrets domestic animals? If so, the Fish and Game Commission has no jurisdiction. That’s the question the state has avoided answering for nine decades.”

CALL FOR EXPERTS AND PUBLIC SUPPORT

LegalizeFerrets.org is now seeking expert witnesses in animal domestication, wildlife biology, and administrative law to assist as the case proceeds.
Supporters are also urged to add their name to the public petition at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYOnd3GDwgbsZoZYlja6p8GHJlOg71x2v_8v1m4BXf2I-BHQ/viewform?usp=header

MEDIA CONTACT:
Pat Wright
LegalizeFerrets.org
CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org
(619) 757-7426
https://www.LegalizeFerrets.org

MULTIMEDIA:
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NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/californias-ferret-ban-inherited-in-1933-never-determined/

From Loss Comes Legacy: How a One-Eyed Retriever Inspired the Launch of Winged Retriever – A Tribute to Grit, Loyalty, and the Unbreakable Bond Between Hunter and Dog

HAMILTON, Ohio, Oct. 17, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — For outdoorsman Bret Abner, the story that became Winged Retriever began with his Labrador, Ivy — a dog whose courage outpaced every setback, even after losing an eye to a life-threatening infection. Her determination and instinct inspired Winged Retriever, a new American brand of premium, hand-built collars for retrieving and hunting dogs launched October 5, 2025.

Image caption: From Loss Comes Legacy: How a One-Eyed Retriever Inspired the Launch of Winged Retriever.

More than gear, Winged Retriever is a living tribute. Ivy’s story is captured in a 12-minute short documentary produced by Dorsal Outdoors with Orvis and Deer Creek Lodge in Sebree, Kentucky, available exclusively at wingedretriever.com.

A Life Shaped by Creek, Blind, and Breath

Abner’s love of Labs and waterfowl hunting began at age twelve on Grand Lake St. Mary’s, Ohio. Over decades he trained a line of dogs — Champ, Cindy, Sam, Brutus — and hunted hundreds of sunrises. Then Ivy Jo arrived: “She was wild, stubborn, and had more drive than any pup I’d ever seen,” Abner says. Training her was “like wrestling a tornado wrapped in fire,” and that fire became her greatness.

Weeks before Ivy’s second duck season, Abner noticed severe eye irritation. A visit to the Cincinnati Eye Institute revealed the devastating diagnosis: blastomycosis, a rare fungal infection that cost vision in her right eye and threatened her life. “She’d gone completely blind on one side,” Abner recalls. “But when the doctor said she could still hunt, I knew she would. She’s built for it.”

Against all odds, Ivy returned to the field weeks later. On her first hunt back she completed three flawless retrieves. “It was like nothing had changed,” Abner says. “Except now I saw her differently — she wasn’t just retrieving birds. She was retrieving her purpose.”

A Retrieve That Defined Her

That season, Ivy’s reputation grew among hunters. On a hunt in North Dakota she executed blind retrieves on land and in white-capped water, tracking wounded birds she couldn’t see and bringing them home by scent and instinct. “She did it with one eye, in waves taller than her, chasing a bird she refused to lose,” Abner says. “That’s when I knew she had something rare. Something you can’t teach.”

Her grit inspired the name Winged Retriever — a symbol of dogs born for pursuit, relentless in the face of the impossible.

Forged in Honor: Hand-Built Collars

Abner set out to build a product worthy of that spirit. Each Winged Retriever collar is hand-built in the USA, combining high-quality materials with rugged design intended to withstand the elements. The collection is designed for serious hunters and retrieving enthusiasts who demand durability and thoughtful craftsmanship.

“Every detail had to matter,” Abner says. “This wasn’t just about making something for dogs. It was about honoring what they give us: loyalty, grit, and heart.”

The first collection, available now at https://wingedretriever.com/, is dedicated to Ivy; each piece carries her legacy.

A Film That Tells the Story

To honor Ivy, Abner partnered with Dorsal Outdoors, Orvis, and Deer Creek Lodge to produce “Ivy: The Heart of A Blind Duck Dog,” a short documentary set against Kentucky’s wetlands and woods. The film explores devotion, resilience, and the timeless partnership between hunter and retriever, and has begun to resonate across the outdoor community.

“This isn’t just my story,” Abner says. “It’s every hunter’s story who’s ever looked into their dog’s eyes and seen determination looking back.”

About Winged Retriever

Founded in 2025 by lifelong waterfowl hunter Bret Abner, Winged Retriever honors the heritage of hunting dogs through handcrafted collars built for durability, performance, and beauty. Inspired by Ivy — the one-eyed Labrador whose courage defines the brand — Winged Retriever represents loyalty, resilience, and the pursuit that never ends.

To view “Ivy: The Heart of A Blind Duck Dog” and explore the collection, visit https://www.wingedretriever.com/.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/EesqjhdMVNk?si=n_ZbwJRNbaBOhFAq

MEDIA CONTACT:
The Grow Agency
Matt Peterson, CEO, The Grow Agency
Matt@thegrow.agency
Website: www.TheGrow.Agency

NEWS SOURCE: Winged Retriever

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Winged Retriever), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/from-loss-comes-legacy-how-a-one-eyed-retriever-inspired-the-launch-of-winged-retriever-a-tribute-to-grit-loyalty-and-the-unbreakable-bond-between-hunter-and-dog/

American Pygmy Goat Champions Crowned at National Convention

Champion Buck, Doe and Wether awarded highest honor during NPGA Convention in Porterville, CA

SEATTLE, Wash., June 30, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Champion Challenge held in Porterville, California June 20, 2025. Hosted by the Sequoia Pygmy Goat Association, How the West Was Won National Convention brought together the best animals from across the country for a chance to claim the top honor of national champion.

Photo Caption: (L-R) Elaine Kreig with Flying Turtle’s Thistle Tympany, Brayden Auge with #1 Moore Kidd Johnny Ringo, and April Seiler with Ahsum Pygmies Outta Bounds.

The National Champion Buck is Ahsum Pygmies Outta Bounds owned and bred by April & Susan Seiler from Peoria, AZ. First runner up is Flying Turtle’s Sweet Sertoli owned and bred by Elaine Krieg. Second runner up is Fox Haven’s Ridin Solo owned and bred by Karole and Gary Miller.

“We have strived to be good stewards of the pygmy goat breed and are honored to receive recognition of the 2025 National Champion Buck. We are truly blessed by the experiences and friendships that raising pygmy goats has afforded us,” said April and Susan Seiler.

The National Champion Doe is Flying Turtle’s Thistle Tympany, bred and owned by Elaine Krieg from Grass Valley, CA. First runner up is Twilight Ranch Alexa Bot bred and owned by Brittany Cunningham. Second runner up is Pygmy Goats by T.J. Kinzi bred and owned by Tammi Josephson and the Josephson Family.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” said Elaine Krieg. “I’m proud of my breeding program and all the support from my family and friends.”

The National Champion Wether is Platinum Wether #1 Moore Kidd Johnny Ringo owned by 13-year-old Brayden Auge from Bakersfield, CA. Bred by Rhonda S. Moore & Norman Russ. First runner up is Rosedale Pygmies Eclipse owned and bred by Nicole & Celeste Rickett. Second runner up is Twilight Ranch Iron Man owned by Jacob Farino and bred by Brittney Cunningham.

“I’ve never cried winning something before,” said Brayden Auge. “When they said #1 Moore Kidd I thought to myself – wait a minute is there another animal with the same herd name? I couldn’t believe it.”

“On behalf of the board and membership I want to congratulate all the winners,” said Darren Watkins, President of the National Pygmy Goat Association. “The classes were extremely competitive and the winning animals really reflect the best of the breed.”

ABOUT NATIONAL PYGMY GOAT ASSOCIATION

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official breed registry for the American Pygmy Goat in the United States. Founded in 1976, the NPGA sets breed standards, provides animal registration, maintains a database of pedigrees, certifies judges, and sanctions pygmy goat shows.

For more information visit https://npga-pygmy.com/.

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Photo Caption: (L-R) Elaine Kreig with Flying Turtle’s Thistle Tympany, Brayden Auge with #1 Moore Kidd Johnny Ringo, and April Seiler with Ahsum Pygmies Outta Bounds.

NEWS SOURCE: National Pygmy Goat Association

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/american-pygmy-goat-champions-crowned-at-national-convention/

Deemed Wild and Dangerous – But Fish & Game Can’t Produce a Single Document or Respond to Our Records Request

LA MESA, Calif., May 21, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — On February 12, 2025, a formal Public Records Act (PRA) request was submitted to the California Fish and Game Commission seeking documentation to justify the classification of domestic ferrets as “not normally domesticated in California” by LegalizeFerrets.org. The request specifically asked for any scientific studies, internal memos, environmental risk assessments, or correspondence used to uphold the ongoing prohibition of domestic ferrets under Title 14, Section 671 of the California Code of Regulations.

Image caption: While the months fly by, we’re still waiting for answers. Our Public Records Act request to the California Fish and Game Commission has gone unanswered—just like the last 35 years of silence.

As of today – more than 90 days later – no responsive records have been produced.

We acknowledge and appreciate the professional efforts of Executive Director Melissa Miller-Henson and her staff, particularly Cynthia McKeith, who confirmed receipt of our request and committed to transparency. This is not a failure of staff, who were given an impossible task: to produce evidence that likely doesn’t exist.

“We’re not angry with the staff. In fact, we feel for them. Melissa Miller-Henson inherited a legacy of bureaucratic neglect. We’re sorry she got stuck with this,” said Pat Wright, who submitted the request. “But after 35 years of petitions being ignored or quietly denied without justification, we’re done being silent.”

The request asked for documents dating back to 1931, when the original mustelid regulation was enacted. The public has a right to know: was the ferret ban ever based on actual evidence, or has it simply persisted unchallenged?

In the absence of records, this silence speaks volumes. The California Fish and Game Commission owes the public more than a stall – it owes an explanation.

We remain committed to transparency, due process, and accountability in our campaign to legalize domestic ferrets in California. All responses, or lack thereof, will be documented publicly.

For more information or to follow the ongoing effort, visit: https://www.legalizeferrets.org

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MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Pat Wright
LegalizeFerrets.org
CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org
(619) 303-0645

NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/deemed-wild-and-dangerous-but-fish-game-cant-produce-a-single-document-or-respond-to-our-records-request/

California Ferret Advocates Push Forward – Support Needed for Petition 2025-003!

LA MESA, Calif., March 18, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Ferret lovers across California and the nation are rallying behind Petition 2025-003, now officially acknowledged by the California Fish and Game Commission (FGC). This petition seeks to reclassify ferrets as domestic animals, challenging California’s outdated and scientifically unsupported ban, LegalizeFerrets.org announced today.

Image caption: Domestic ferrets are pets and don’t exist in the wild.

Despite being legal in 48 other states, ferrets remain classified as wild and detrimental in California—without public input or scientific justification. The Commission is set to review the petition in its upcoming meetings, and public support is critical to ensure fair consideration.

KEY MEETING DATES & HOW TO PARTICIPATE

The Fish and Game Commission will discuss Petition 2025-003 at the following meetings:

April 16-17, 2025 | Capitol Event Center, Sacramento, CA
June 11-12, 2025 | Sacramento area (Venue TBD)

Supporters are encouraged to attend in person or virtually and to submit written comments in favor of reclassifying ferrets as domestic animals.

HOW TO TAKE ACTION:

:: Attend the meetings – Show up in person or participate virtually. Details will be posted on FGC’s website.

:: Submit public comments – Email fgc@fgc.ca.gov or mail:
California Fish and Game Commission
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento, CA 94244-2090

:: Share and spread the word – Let others know why ferrets deserve fair treatment under the law!

WHY THIS MATTERS

“Ferrets are not wild or dangerous. They’ve been domesticated for thousands of years,” said Pat Wright, founder of LegalizeFerrets.org. “California’s ban is based on outdated fears, and it’s time to correct this injustice. The Fish and Game Commission is legally obligated under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) to provide a fair and transparent review of our petition.”

CALL TO ACTION

This is a rare and crucial opportunity to finally bring ferrets into the legal pet category where they belong. California pet lovers, veterinarians, and animal welfare advocates must come together to ensure the Commission fairly considers Petition 2025-003.

Act Now! The Commission will be reviewing the petition soon—make sure they hear your voice!

Stay updated & learn more at https://www.legalizeferrets.org/

Location: California (Statewide)

Media Contact: Pat Wright, LegalizeFerrets.org, (619) 303-0645, CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org

Together, let’s make ferret legalization a reality!

NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/california-ferret-advocates-push-forward-support-needed-for-petition-2025-003/

The Sacramento SPCA Welcomes Jennifer Brent as the New Chief Executive Officer

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Oct. 17, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Sacramento SPCA announced today the appointment of Jennifer Brent as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 14, 2024. Brent joins the Sacramento SPCA with more than 16 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit and animal welfare sectors, serving the past 8 years as Executive Director of The California Wildlife Center (CWC), a Southern California nonprofit dedicated to rescue and rehabilitation of native California animals.

Photo caption: New Sacramento SPCA CEO, Jennifer Brent, pictured with Beau, a dog currently receiving specialized care at the shelter.

Prior to CWC, Brent held executive leadership roles at two private foundations supporting the needs of companion animals through spay/neuter and adoption and served as a Commissioner to the Department of Animal Care and Control for the City of Los Angeles.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jennifer to our lifesaving team,” said Susan Gray, Sacramento SPCA Board President. “She has a proven track record of effective leadership and a deep passion for helping animals and people. We are confident that her vision and expertise will guide us into the next chapter of lifesaving work in our community.”

Brent recently moved from Southern California to take on the leadership role at the Sacramento SPCA, a nationally recognized leader for delivering high-quality, low-cost spay/neuter surgeries, along with adoption, wellness, and outreach programs that positively impact more than 40,000 animals each year.

“I am honored to join the Sacramento SPCA and work alongside such a dedicated team,” said Brent. “I look forward to learning more about the needs of animals and people in Sacramento and building on the strong foundation already in place to save more lives.”

Recognizing the vital role of community engagement in the Sacramento SPCA’s work, Brent is eager to gather insights and build collaborative partnerships that enhance the organization’s lifesaving impact.

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region – helping animals – and the people who love them – in our own communities.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 132 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

NEWS SOURCE: Sacramento SPCA

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/the-sacramento-spca-welcomes-jennifer-brent-as-the-new-chief-executive-officer/

Legalize Ferrets Pauses Lawsuit, Files Petition for Regulatory Change with California Office of Administrative Law

SAN DIEGO, Calif., Oct. 11, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Legalize Ferrets, the grassroots organization advocating for the legalization of domestic ferrets in California, has announced a strategic pause in its ongoing lawsuit in San Diego Superior Court. The decision follows the filing of a petition for regulatory change with the California Office of Administrative Law (OAL), marking a new approach in the effort to challenge the state’s longstanding ban on ferrets.

Image caption: Legalize Ferrets Files Petition for Regulatory Change with California Office of Administrative Law.

The shift in strategy stems from the fact that California’s ferret ban, enacted in 1931, predates the establishment of the OAL and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). The APA mandates that all regulations go through a formal process to ensure transparency, accountability, and public input—something that did not occur with the ferret ban. By filing this petition, Legalize Ferrets is now addressing the issue where it originated: before the OAL.

“We believe this petition represents our best path forward,” said Pat Wright, founder of Legalize Ferrets. “The OAL was created to ensure that regulations like this are properly vetted through a formal process, which is something the ferret ban has never gone through. We are optimistic that this will lead to a fair and thorough review, which has been missing for nearly a century.”

The OAL has sixty days to respond to the petition, during which Legalize Ferrets remains committed to pursuing all available avenues for justice. While the lawsuit in San Diego Superior Court is paused, the group believes that the regulatory petition offers a strong chance of success by revisiting the legal basis for the ban.

“We’re not stepping back – we’re simply changing our approach,” Wright added. “We’re confident that the regulatory process will allow for a fresh and fair review of the facts, and we encourage our supporters to stay engaged and continue pushing for change.”

Supporters are encouraged to sign the Change.org petition to further the cause.

About Legalize Ferrets:

Legalize Ferrets is a grassroots organization dedicated to the legalization of domestic ferrets in California. The group advocates for legislative and regulatory changes to overturn the nearly century-old ban on ferrets in the state. Through legal action, public outreach, and education, Legalize Ferrets aims to ensure that ferret owners can enjoy the same rights as pet owners in 48 other states.

For more information, please visit https://www.legalizeferrets.org/.

The petition and exhibits are at (PDF): https://www.legalizeferrets.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Petition-for-Regulation-Change.pdf.

There is a change.org petition that people can sign at https://chng.it/mw7MJNpc95.

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NEWS SOURCE: Legalize Ferrets

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/legalize-ferrets-pauses-lawsuit-files-petition-for-regulatory-change-with-california-office-of-administrative-law/

Grey Muzzle Grant Gives Senior Dogs at The Sacramento SPCA a Second Chance

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- There's good news for old dogs this summer as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners.

The Sacramento SPCA is one of 100 animal welfare groups chosen from nearly 400 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs and the people who love them. The winning groups are sharing more than $1 million in grants to help save and improve the lives of at-risk old dogs in their communities.

"This grant will help us give senior dogs like 12-year-old Keanan the veterinary care they need to live happy and healthy lives with loving families," said Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Director of Marketing & Communications. "No one is more grateful or loving than an old dog, and we're looking forward to helping more senior dogs get the second chance they all deserve."

Over the past 16 years, the national nonprofit Grey Muzzle Organization has provided more than $5.7 million in grants to support its vision of "a world where every senior dog thrives, and no old dog dies alone and afraid."

"Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we're delighted to help deserving organizations like the Sacramento SPCA make a positive difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities," Grey Muzzle's Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said. "Many senior dogs in the Sacramento region are enjoying their golden years in loving homes thanks to the lifesaving work of the Sacramento SPCA."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 132 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

About The Grey Muzzle Organization:

The national nonprofit The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other nonprofit groups nationwide. For details, please visit https://www.greymuzzle.org/.

There's good news for old dogs this summer as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners. The Sacramento SPCA is one of 100 animal welfare groups chosen from nearly 400 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs and the people who love them.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

National Nonprofit Petco Love Invests in Sacramento SPCA to Save and Improve the Lives of Pets in the Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA was awarded a $15,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

Over the past several years, there has been an increase in pets entering the Sacramento SPCA's care with preexisting behavior challenges. To meet the needs of every pet and ensure they are adopted as quickly as possible, the Sacramento SPCA's Behavior and Adoptions Teams developed new programs to provide these pets with the extra support they need while in the shelter and resources they can go home with as they adjust to life with their new families.

Thanks to the lifesaving investment from Petco Love, both dogs and cats needing extra behavior support will benefit from these new programs. Funds will purchase materials for their in-shelter enrichment as well as items for an "Adoption Success Kit" that will go home with them when they are adopted.

"We are incredibly grateful for Petco Love's continued investment in our lifesaving work," said Sarah Haney, Interim Chief Executive Officer. "Their partnership will allow us to provide customized care for pets needing extra behavior support. With this initiative, the Sacramento SPCA can continue to be a resource for adopters in our community, reduce the number of pets returned to our care for behavioral reasons, and keep as many families together as possible."

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested nearly $400 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations - like ours - across North America, with 6.8 million pets adopted and counting.

"Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $15M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized," said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. "Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We launched Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses patented image-recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping pets - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org/.

Learn more about Petco Love here: https://petcolove.org/.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 132 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit sspca.org/ for more information and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and LinkedIn.

About Petco Love:

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we've empowered animal welfare organizations by investing nearly $400 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We've helped find loving homes for more than 6.8 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide. Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Join us. Visit PetcoLove.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

MULTIMEDIA:

Image link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0718-s2p-sacspca-300dpi.jpg

Photo Caption: Staff from the Sacramento SPCA gather with pets and the Adoption Success Kits they will take home in the shelter's Adoption Center.

The Sacramento SPCA was awarded a $15,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

National Pygmy Goat Association Crowns Champions at 2024 Convention

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Champion Challenge held in Lewisburg, WV June 14, 2024. Sponsored by the North Carolina Pygmy Goat Club, the Wild Wonderful World of Pygmies National Convention brought together the best animals from all over the U.S. for a chance to claim the top honor of national champion.

Buck Class:

The National Champion Buck is "R" Wild West Pygmy's Hot Butter Rum owned and bred by Denise Aragon in Fort Davis, TX. First runner up is Lil' Champs Tales of Tonka owned by David and Traci Chillon. Bred by Michael and Heather Putman. Second runner up is Horns-N-Roses I'm Royal Too owned by Bryson Staley and Donna Staley. Bred by Bryson Staley.

"I felt really blessed," said Denise Aragon. "I am very blessed with all the people that have come into my life and helped me get where I'm at. I also want to thank Doug and Lisa Bragg and especially Inga Gonzalez who mentored me."

Doe Class:

The National Champion Doe is Burntwood Farms Lovee, bred and owned by Doug and Lisa Bragg in Chesapeake, OH. First runner up is B&B Pygmies Wanda Maximoff owned by Brittany Minter and Arianna Minter. Bred by Brittany Minter. Second runner up is Echo Springs Lucinda bred and owned by Sheryl Auel Howard.

"We were very excited and thankful for our animal to be chosen," said Doug and Lisa Bragg. "To be chosen as national champion doe is an honor. We would like to thank Linda Henwood of Whirlwind Farms for her influence of her herds genetics and Denise Aragon for allowing us to own her beautiful dam."

Wether Class:

The National Champion Wether is Twilight Valley White Legs Matter owned and bred by Rebecca Zimmerman in Sperry, OK. First runner up is Shasta View Sail On Sailor owned by Erin Kamysiak and bred by Diane Keith. Second runner up is Hanging Banners Paparazzi bred and owned by Michael Putman, Heather Putman, Deb Graff and C Graf.

"I really didn't expect him to win this year. It completely threw me for a loop," said Rebecca Zimmerman. "Winning National titles back-to-back is a dream come true. I just don't have words to express my feelings."

"Congratulations to all the winners," said Darren Watkins, President of the National Pygmy Goat Association. "Their hard work has paid off with beautiful animals deserving of this title."

About National Pygmy Goat Association:

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official breed registry for Pygmy Goats in the United States. Founded in 1976, the NPGA sets breed standards, provides animal registration, maintains a database of pedigrees, certifies judges, and sanctions pygmy goat shows.

For more information visit: https://npga-pygmy.com/.

MULTIMEDIA:

Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0624-s2p-npga-wins-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: (L-R) Doug Bragg holding Burntwood Farms Lovee, Rebecca Zimmerman holding Twilight Valley White Legs Matter, and Denise Aragon holding "R" Wild West Pygmy's Hot Butter Rum.

The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Champion Challenge held in Lewisburg, WV June 14, 2024. Sponsored by the North Carolina Pygmy Goat Club, the Wild Wonderful World of Pygmies National Convention brought together the best animals from all over the U.S. for a chance to claim the top honor of national champion.

Related link: https://www.npga-pygmy.com/

Long Time Ferret Activist Pat Wright Files Lawsuit Against California Fish and Game Commission President Eric Sklar

LA MESA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pat Wright, a resident of La Mesa, California, has filed a lawsuit against Eric Sklar, President of the California Fish and Game Commission in San Diego Superior Court, challenging the arbitrary classification of domestic ferrets as wild animals. The lawsuit, titled Wright v. Sklar, was filed in the San Diego Superior Court and seeks a writ of mandate and declaratory relief. Wright is the founder of LegalizeFerrets.org.

Mr. Wright, acting pro se, asserts that the California Fish and Game Commission's decision to categorize domestic ferrets as wild animals, without conducting thorough (or any) scientific studies or affording meaningful public input, is unjust and lacks a foundation in scientific evidence. The lawsuit alleges that this decision subjects domestic ferrets to unnecessary prohibition and regulatory restrictions.

The lawsuit highlights the fundamental rights at stake, including property rights, due process rights, and the right to have governmental decisions based on scientific evidence. Mr. Wright contends that the Commission's actions represent a clear violation of these rights and are incompatible with legal standards governing the proper classification of domesticated animals.

In response to a motion to demurrer filed by the Attorney General's office on behalf of Mr. Sklar, Mr. Wright has provided a detailed response, citing legal precedents and challenging the grounds for demurrer. He maintains that his petition for a writ of mandate is legally sufficient and urges the Commission to reconsider its intended demurrer.

Mr. Wright emphasizes his commitment to pursuing judicial recourse in a diligent and expedient manner. Despite efforts to secure legal representation, Mr. Wright has been unable to find an attorney, and he encourages any legal assistance or support in this matter.

For further information or inquiries regarding the lawsuit, please contact Wright at 619-303-0645 or via email at CLIFFNotes@legalizeferrets.org.

REF - court document ID: Case No.: 37-2024-00006114-CU-MC-CTL

Pat Wright, a resident of La Mesa, California, has filed a lawsuit against Eric Sklar, President of the California Fish and Game Commission in San Diego Superior Court, challenging the arbitrary classification of domestic ferrets as wild animals. The lawsuit, titled Wright v. Sklar, was filed in the San Diego Superior Court and seeks a writ of mandate and declaratory relief. Wright is the founder of LegalizeFerrets.org.

Related link: https://www.legalizeferrets.org/

Petco Love Invests $25,000 in Sacramento SPCA to Save and Improve the Lives of Pets in the Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $25,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

The Sacramento SPCA has positioned itself as a lifesaving resource for animals in need, regardless of the animal's age, breed, health, and behavior. When the Sacramento SPCA began noticing an increase in both the number of animals entering the shelter with existing behavior challenges and the average length-of-stay for dogs, particularly large breeds, Behavior staff jumped into action piloting a new program to support these animals and their new families.

Customized take-home kits were created to support adopters and animals showing preexisting behavior conditions. Thanks to the lifesaving investment from Petco Love, adopters will receive an "Adoption Success Kit" containing items such as a Sensi harness, Kong, clicker, snuffle mat, and a training manual. For dogs needing even further support, adopters will also receive training vouchers for either a digital or in-person session with an external training organization.

"We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Folsom Petco Pet Care Center and for Petco Love supporting our lifesaving work," said Altine. "With this $25,000 lifesaving investment, we can support new adopters, reduce the number of animals returned to our care for behavior reasons, and keep as many families together as possible."

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $350 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations - like ours - across North America, with 6.7 million pets adopted and counting.

"Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $15M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized," said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. "Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We recently launched Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses patented image-recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org/.

Learn more about Petco Love here: https://petcolove.org/.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 131 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed

to keep people and pets together for life. Visit sspca.org for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Petco Love:

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we've empowered animal welfare organizations by investing $350 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We've helped find loving homes for more than 6.7 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide.

Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Join us. Visit petcolove.org or follow on Facebook Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $25,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for animals in the Sacramento region.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Sacramento SPCA Performs 300,000th Spay and Neuter Surgery

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they hit a spay and neuter surgery milestone - altering the 300,000th animal in Sacramento since 2007. That's an average of nearly 19,000 animals a year - making the Sacramento SPCA one of the top clinics in the nation.

"Spaying and neutering is the most effective way of reducing pet overpopulation and the number of pets entering our region's shelters," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. "That's why the Sacramento SPCA opened the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center in 2021 - to immediately expand access to the public and our animal welfare partners in a time when all facets of animal welfare in our region and across the nation are struggling to keep up with demand."

The 300,000th animal to receive surgery at the Sacramento SPCA was "Mama Goose" - a feral cat who had given birth and raised kittens in a yard in Sacramento. She was trapped and brought to the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center at the Sacramento SPCA through the weekday Community Cat Clinic. Thanks to the Feline Spay and Neuter Fund, she was spayed at no cost to her trapper, and returned home.

The Sacramento SPCA serves the Sacramento region and beyond as a premier provider of low-cost spay and neuter services, collaborating with local rescue groups, feral and community cat caregivers, those in need, and the public to alter 20,000 animals annually.

The Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center dedicates every Sunday to the health and welfare of community cats, providing free surgeries to more than 70 cats in Sacramento County each week. The shelter also offers 10 surgical slots for Sacramento County cats Monday through Saturday at no cost, thanks the Sacramento SPCA's Feline Spay and Neuter Fund. In collaboration with and funded by Zoe K. McCrea, Kathy Lelevier & Richard Rose, Dr. Nancy T. Field, and Mary & Kevin Clark, this initiative was launched in August of 2022 to provide more spay/neuter surgery appointments for community cats outside of the Sunday clinics.

Thanks to the fund, the Sacramento SPCA has altered more than 4,000 community cats so far this year, 500 more cats than this time last year. Since 2007, more than 50,000 cats have been altered, vaccinated, and received flea/ear mite treatments through the shelter's trap, neuter, and return (TNR) program.

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region providing no-cost spay/neuter services to feral and community cats 7 days a week, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. The Sacramento SPCA is local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

To join the lifesaving efforts and support of the Feline Spay and Neuter Fund, visit https://www.sspca.org/ or contact Sarah Haney, Chief Development Officer, at 916-504-2805 or shaney@sspca.org.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 131 years. The Sacramento SPCA provides compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they hit a spay and neuter surgery milestone - altering the 300,000th animal in Sacramento since 2007. That's an average of nearly 19,000 animals a year - making the Sacramento SPCA one of the top clinics in the nation.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Senior Dogs at Sacramento SPCA Fetch Grant

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Old dogs have something to wag about this summer, as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners. The Sacramento SPCA is one of 90 animal welfare groups chosen from 370 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs. The winning groups received $848,000 in grants to help save or improve the lives of at-risk old dogs in their communities.

"This grant will help us give senior dogs like 13-year-old Roxie the veterinary care they need to live happy and healthy lives with loving families," said Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Director of Marketing & Communications. "No one is more grateful or loving than an old dog, and we're looking forward to helping more senior dogs get the second chance they all deserve."

Over the past 15 years, the national nonprofit Grey Muzzle Organization has provided more than $4.6 million in grants to support its vision of "a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid."

"Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we're delighted to help deserving organizations like the Sacramento SPCA make a difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities," Grey Muzzle's Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said. "Many senior dogs in the Sacramento region are enjoying their golden years in loving homes thanks to the wonderful work of the Sacramento SPCA."

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org/.

Learn more about The Grey Muzzle Organization here: https://www.greymuzzle.org/.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 131 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit sspca.org for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) and LinkedIn.

About The Grey Muzzle Organization:

The national nonprofit The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other nonprofit groups nationwide. For details, please visit https://www.greymuzzle.org/.

Old dogs have something to wag about this summer, as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at the Sacramento SPCA are among the winners. The Sacramento SPCA is one of 90 animal welfare groups chosen from 370 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

PETBAR Opens In Indian Trail, Just In Time For Dog Days Of Summer

INDIAN TRAIL, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Many people cut their dogs hair to keep them cooler in the summer, but did you know that if you cut a dog's hair too short, he can get a sunburn? That's just one thing the professional groomers at Petbar pay attention to. The luxury pet grooming boutique will open its first Indian Trail location with a Grand Opening celebration from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023. The new Petbar location is at 6437 Old Monroe Road, Suite D in Sun Valley Commons.

During the Grand Opening, all visitors - human and not - will enjoy snacks, treats and giveaways. There'll be cookies for the kids, mimosas for the adults, doggie treats for our four-legged friends and Petbar swag. Additionally, Petbar will waive the $100 membership initiation fee for the first 100 guests who sign up for a membership at the Indian Trail location through the Grand Opening event.

Petbar offers concierge-level pet grooming and washing with full and self-service available including state-of-the-art equipment and a clean, open-air environment. Membership plans are available that will help keep pets clean all month long for one low monthly price.

Cassandra and Julius Patterson are the franchisees who own this new Petbar. The animal lovers wanted to open a franchise that they cared about and that would benefit their community.

"One of the things we like about Petbar is that it doesn't cage animals or put them behind doors - everything is done in the open," said Cassandra Patterson. "We can't wait to share the Petbar experience - and our amazingly talented team of groomers - with the residents of Indian Trail."

The Pattersons plan to open two more Petbar locations in the area.

WHAT: Petbar Indian Trail Grand Opening Party

WHERE: Petbar, 6437 Old Monroe Road, Suite D in Sun Valley Commons

WHEN: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023

About Petbar:

When their schnauzer Bella's favorite groomer moved away, Dan and Ashley O'Loughlin decided to launch their own unique pet boutique. They opened the first petbar in 2015 in Dallas, Texas. The innovative concept offers self-service dog wash stations, full-service washing, and full-service grooming by experienced groomers - all in a bright and clean setting outfitted with professional equipment and high-end products. The O'Loughlins, who operate two Petbars in the Dallas area, began to franchise in 2020. There are currently twenty-three Petbars open, with 30+ more franchise locations slated to debut in the coming year across seven states.

MEDIA CONTACT:

For media information, contact

Kelly Hunter, Sunwest Communications

972-489-4361 | khunter@sunwestpr.com

Many people cut their dogs hair to keep them cooler in the summer, but did you know that if you cut a dog's hair too short, he can get a sunburn? That's just one thing the professional groomers at Petbar pay attention to. The luxury pet grooming boutique will open its first Indian Trail location with a Grand Opening celebration from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023.

Author’s Second Children’s Sing-Along Book Launches with a Give-Back Campaign Supporting Pet Adoption

LA JOLLA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Children's sing-along book author and vocalist Bridget Burton (pen name) known in her community as Barbara Burton Graf, just published her second children's book "Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou: Maui's Beloved Pup" (ISBN 978-0989562416; Softcover) this month. The illustrated book, designed for early readers, is captured in both a soft cover print, eBook (Kindle) and video/cartoon versions and includes upbeat Hawaiian music with steel guitar and ukulele and vocals by the author herself.

The book follows the escapades of main character Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou inspired by the author's own English Springer Spaniels she's had in her life. "The books capture their rambunctious, fun and adventuresome spirits," says Burton, "I love dogs and I love Hawaii, so creating these books is a natural expression for me." Burton also quipped, "and of course, I love kids and singing... and kids love Annie!"

"This book honors the scenic beauty of the coastline, mountains and waterfalls in Maui, as only a pup could experience it!" continued Burton. Annie hikes on Haleakala, takes the Road to Hana via scooter, goes horseback riding, and shops Lahaina. For any family who has visited (or will visit) Maui, the book will provide some options for exploring the island through the eyes of this special pup.

Burton chose to publish the book in multiple formats and explained that it was important to give children a variety of ways to learn: Read the soft cover version and sing along with the verses; or listen to the music online while paging through the eBook. Kids can also watch the video version which features Annie moving around a designed map of Maui to the cities and points of interest in the song and animated cartoons with each of the eight verses. The music/lyrics are available online with and without page-turning prompts to help children learn to read faster.

With the first book, set in Kauai, Burton supported the Kauai Humane Society's (KHS) adoption efforts by initiating campaigns and making donations. This newly published book is set in Maui and in tandem with the launch, Burton will be donating a percentage of the sales to the Maui Humane Society (MHS).

"We're excited to get creative and continue to explore opportunities with them [MHS] to find ways to help boost their off-island adoption efforts like we did with KHS," said Burton.

For further information, please visit https://www.anniekailani.com/.

Print and eBook versions are available for purchase exclusively on Amazon while the video/cartoon versions are available on both Amazon and the Annie website.

BOOK ONE: "Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou: Kauai's Beloved Pup." First Publication Hardback Print, eBook and Video Versions 2016. Softcover Publishing 2023 with Re-release of eBook and Video Version.

BOOK TWO: "Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou: Maui's Beloved Pup." Publishing June 26, 2023 in Softcover print, eBook and Video Version.

Children's sing-along book author and vocalist Bridget Burton (pen name) known in her community as Barbara Burton Graf, just published her second children's book "Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou: Maui's Beloved Pup" (ISBN 978-0989562416; Softcover) this month. The illustrated book, designed for early readers, is captured in both a soft cover print, eBook (Kindle) and video/cartoon versions and includes upbeat Hawaiian music with steel guitar and ukulele and vocals by the author herself.

Related link: https://www.anniekailani.com/

National Pygmy Goat Association Crowns 2023 National Champions

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) is proud to announce the winners of the 2023 Champion Challenge held in Red Bluff, California, June 9, 2023.

Buck Class:

The National Champion Buck is Fair View OhMickeyYourSoFine owned by Laurie Zeise and Kaylee Hettinger. First runner up is Ridgeline Farms Premier Pursuit owned by Niccole Boies and second runner up is Goose Meadow Kayden owned by Niccole Boies and Jerrod Alcaida.

"Kaylee and I are so very grateful to have this piece of the legends before him," said Laurie Zeise. "My deepest appreciation to Diane Keith, Dr. Elaine Krieg, Michelle Fonda, for sharing in the true wealth of these lines. I'm still ridin' cloud nine. Oh Micky yoursofine, your so fine you blow my mind. Hey Mickey!"

Doe Class:

The National Champion Doe is Country Critters Design My Dream owned by Karen Crawford. First runner up is Twilight Valley Zabby owned by Rebecca Zimmerman and second runner up was a tie between "R" Wild West Pygmy's Butterscotch owned by Denise Aragon and Just About Believing Khalea owned by Gemma Kress and Emily Schiffman.

"I was in complete shock and then really emotional," said Karen Crawford. "This means so much to me because she is the daughter of the 2019 National Champion Doe. These wins are very emotional and personal to me because I lost my father at that time and family is so important to me."

Wether Class:

The National Champion Wether is Twilight Valley Zaire owned by Rebecca Zimmerman. First runner up is Country Critters Dayne owned by Lauren Nelson and second runner up is Park's Ark Pygmies Onyx owned by Ian and Shannon Parks.

"I was shocked and that's probably an understatement," said Rebecca Zimmerman. "I never would have thought he would have been chosen National Champion Wether. It was an amazing experience and I'm thrilled his sister was selected first runner up doe; super proud of my babies."

"Congratulations to all the winners," said Darren Watkins, President of the National Pygmy Goat Association. "It was clear, their hard work paid off with beautiful animals deserving of this title."

About National Pygmy Goat Association:

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official breed registry for Pygmy Goats in the United States. Founded in 1976, the NPGA sets breed standards, provides animal registration, maintains a database of pedigrees, certifies judges, and sanctions pygmy goat shows.

For more information visit https://www.npga-pygmy.com/

The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) is proud to announce the winners of the 2023 Champion Challenge held in Red Bluff, California, June 9, 2023. The National Champion Buck is Fair View OhMickeyYourSoFine owned by Laurie Zeise and Kaylee Hettinger. First runner up is Ridgeline Farms Premier Pursuit owned by Niccole Boies and second runner up is Goose Meadow Kayden owned by Niccole Boies and Jerrod Alcaida.

Related link: https://www.npga-pygmy.com/

Matrix Advises Apollo Veterinary Medical Hospitals and AVMH Ventures on the Successful Recapitalization and Acquisition of a Portfolio of Pet Supplies Plus Stores

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading independent investment bank, announces that it served as lead advisor on Apollo Veterinary Medical Hospitals and AVMH Ventures' ("Apollo" or the "Company") recapitalization and acquisition of a multi-state portfolio of Pet Supplies Plus ("PSP") retail pet stores.

A privately-owned company established in 1999 by Dr. Steven Whatley in Albany, GA, Apollo is a leading veterinary care provider in the Southeast. The Company is comprised of nine full-service veterinary hospital locations throughout Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida.

Decades of experience in veterinary medicine and the commercial pet industry led Dr. Whatley to expand the business portfolio to include Pet Supplies Plus franchise retail stores thereby connecting knowledge, passion, and ability to serve customers, while growing profitably within the U.S. pet market. PSP's franchise platform, growth objectives, and support for owners aligned closely with Apollo's business model and operating philosophy.

"We are proud to add this most recent portfolio of Pet Supplies Plus stores to our existing portfolio and further diversify and expand our business," said Dr. Whatley, Chief Executive Officer of Apollo. "We are committed to operating best-in-class veterinary hospitals and Pet Supplies Plus stores, and we do that by forging personal relationships with our clients, patients, team members and the communities that we serve. As we continue to expand our presence, we were fortunate to work with Matrix to structure and intermediate this important transaction. Their experience, functional expertise, and objective approach were critical to securing capital on terms that were very attractive to the Company."

Pet Supplies Plus, a subsidiary of Franchise Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FRG), is focused on making it easier to get better products and services for their customers' pets. With over 640 locations in 41 states and counting, the stores have a streamlined design making it easy to navigate a wide assortment of natural pet foods, goods, and services. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, Pet Supplies Plus is ranked No. 20 in Entrepreneur magazine's 43rd Annual Franchise 500(r) list as of 2022.

In its role as sole intermediary, Matrix provided capital advisory services to Apollo including financial modeling and sensitivity analysis, capital structure assessment, negotiation with counterparties, and placement of both debt and equity capital. The assignment was managed by John Whalen, Head of Matrix's Capital Advisory Investment Banking Group; Ryan Weir, Director and Garrett Novotny, CFA, CPA, Senior Analyst.

Mr. Weir added, "We very much appreciate the trust that Apollo placed in us to advise them on the capital raise and acquisition. Apollo is a great operator and the addition of this portfolio of stores represents a transformational acquisition for the Company as it further scales and diversifies. Matrix was privileged to work with the Apollo Team."

About Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc.:

Founded in 1988, Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. is an independent, advisory focused, privately-held investment bank headquartered in Richmond, VA, with additional offices in Baltimore, MD and New York, NY. Matrix provides merger & acquisition and financial advisory services for privately-held, private-equity owned, not-for-profit and publicly traded companies. Matrix's advisory services include company sales, recapitalizations, capital raises of debt & equity, corporate carve outs, special situations, management buyouts, corporate valuations and fairness opinions. Matrix serves clients in a wide range of industries, including automotive aftermarket, building products, car washes, consumer products, convenience retail, downstream energy, healthcare and industrial products.

For additional information or to contact our team members, please visit https://matrixcmg.com/.

Securities offered by MCMG Capital Advisors, Inc., an affiliate of Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC

Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading independent investment bank, announces that it served as lead advisor on Apollo Veterinary Medical Hospitals and AVMH Ventures' ("Apollo" or the "Company") recapitalization and acquisition of a multi-state portfolio of Pet Supplies Plus ("PSP") retail pet stores.

Related link: https://www.matrixcmg.com/

National Pygmy Goat Association Declares April 23 as National Pygmy Goat Day

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) has declared April 23 as National Pygmy Goat Day. Members and affiliated clubs are planning events throughout the country to celebrate the day and showcase their pygmy goats.

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official registry for Pygmy Goats in the United States and the national organization serving Pygmy Goat owners and enthusiasts. Formed in 1976, it works to promote Pygmy Goats as useful livestock and multi-purpose miniature goats that are just plain fun!

"As the official registry for pygmy goats, it is our goal to educate the public about the breed," said Darren Watkins, President of the National Pygmy Goat Association. "What better way to celebrate these wonderful animals than by having a day specifically for them. We couldn't think of a better time than the anniversary of the birth of the NPGA."

Not all little goats are Pygmy Goats. Pygmy Goats are a specific breed derived from the Cameroon's or West African Dwarf Goat. The first Pygmy Goats were brought to the United States in 1959 for use in petting zoos. The Pygmy Goat is hardy, alert and animated, good-natured and gregarious, a docile, responsive pet, a cooperative provider of milk, and an ecologically effective browser.

For more information visit https://www.npga-pygmy.com/

About National Pygmy Goat Association:

The National Pygmy Goat Association is the official breed association of the pygmy goat. The organization was founded April 23, 1976 and promotes pygmy goats by setting official breed standards, provides animal registration, maintains a database of pedigrees, certifies judges, and sanctions pygmy goat shows around the United States. For more information visit https://www.npga-pygmy.com/about.

The National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA) has declared April 23 as National Pygmy Goat Day. Members and affiliated clubs are planning events throughout the country to celebrate the day and showcase their pygmy goats.

Related link: https://www.npga-pygmy.com/

31 dogs saved from a dog-meat breeding farm in China have arrived in the United States following year long CDC dog ban

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- China Rescue Dogs, a 501(c)(3) organization, committed to rescuing and saving dogs from the slaughterhouses, meat trade, abuse, and neglect in China, has rescued into the U.S. the first large shipments of dogs from China following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dog ban.

"This truly was a global effort with teams from China, Canada and the United States all coming together to save these dogs from slaughter," acknowledged Jill Stewart, President and Founder of China Rescue Dogs.

The dogs were all saved in April 2022 from a dog meat breeding farm in China. Their rescue was featured by People: https://people.com/pets/china-rescue-dogs-saving-golden-retrievers-corgis/

"To know these dogs now have a second chance at life and will experience love for the first time, makes all the time spent on a project like this worthwhile," said Brandy Cherven, Vice President of China Rescue Dogs. "They were being sent to the slaughterhouse when we stepped in and saved them."

The dogs have spent the last three weeks stationed in Vancouver, Canada waiting for the final leg of their journey." Stewart adds, "We could not have accomplished this mission without the help of David MacNeil, CEO of WeatherTech, Nordstrom's, Dog is My CoPilot, and all our supporters. Dog is My CoPilot is a nonprofit that saves dogs from high kill shelters. The flight from Canada into the U.S. was their first international transport."

There are 10 other rescue organizations that have helped find these pups their forever homes. Of the 31 survivors now in the U.S., 16 are Golden Retrievers and 15 are Frenchie's and Pugs. Other dogs from the April 2022 rescue have already been adopted in Canada.

On July 14, 2021, the CDC suspended dogs imported from 113 countries, including China, due to the potential risk of spreading the canine rabies virus variant (CRVV.) Since that time, China Rescue Dogs has been saving dogs into Canada. This flight marks the first time since the CDC Dog Ban that a large shipment of dogs were granted permission to come into the U.S.

"We have worked closely with the CDC and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to guarantee that all the dogs are healthy, properly vaccinated and tested against canine rabies," said Stewart. "We are honored that our best practices of doing what is best for the dogs was rewarded with their entry into the U.S."

If you would like more information on China Rescue Dogs, or to support their mission, please go to: https://chinarescuedogs.org/.

hina Rescue Dogs, a 501(c)(3) organization, committed to rescuing and saving dogs from the slaughterhouses, meat trade, abuse, and neglect in China, has rescued into the U.S. the first large shipments of dogs from China following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dog ban.

Related link: https://chinarescuedogs.org/

Turning Unwanted Vehicles into Lifesaving Opportunities: How Vehicle Donations Help the Sacramento SPCA Save Animals’ Lives

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- With gas prices still hovering above $5.30 per gallon and many people leaving their "gas guzzlers" in the driveway, the Sacramento SPCA is reminding the community that it's the perfect time to donate their unwanted vehicle to benefit the animals.

Since 2017, the Sacramento SPCA has partnered with CARS, Inc. to accept vehicle donations at no cost to donors, regardless of whether the vehicle is running or not. Proceeds from sales of the used cars, trucks, boats, RVs, and motorcycles donated help the Sacramento SPCA provide care to more than 40,000 animals that enter their doors each year.

"Unfortunately, we've seen vehicle donations decline by 33% in 2022," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. "This has occurred as new vehicle sales also decreased in 2022, due to rising vehicle prices and less inventory."

The average vehicle donation to the Sacramento SPCA is approximately $1,500 - which can provide lifesaving surgeries for three animals or cover the cost of microchips and vaccines for fifteen animals.

Donating a vehicle to the Sacramento SPCA is as easy as filling out the online vehicle donation form or picking up a phone and speaking to a live donor support representative - and every donation helps save animals' lives. The partners at CARS, Inc. will tow the vehicle at no cost to the owner (regardless of whether it's running or not), and donors will receive a donation receipt.

As the only full-service 100% non-profit animal welfare organization in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and do not receive funding from state or local government agencies.

For more information about how to donate your vehicle to the Sacramento SPCA, visit https://www.sspca.org/vehicle or call 844-700-GIVE today.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 130 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit http://sspca.org/ or follow at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

With gas prices still hovering above $5.30 per gallon and many people leaving their "gas guzzlers" in the driveway, the Sacramento SPCA is reminding the community that it's the perfect time to donate their unwanted vehicle to benefit the animals.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Kauai Humane Society to be the Beneficiary of Children’s Sing-along Book Sales

LA JOLLA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Children's sing-along book author and vocalist Bridget Burton will donate $5 from every book bundle sale to the Kauai Humane Society (KHS), starting August 22, 2022. A special "give back" page on the book's website will keep track of purchases of "Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou: Kauai's Beloved Pup" (ISBN: 978-0996216050) hard cover print and companion digital version bundle.

Twenty-five percent of sales through this special page will be donated to KHS through year-end in support of their pet adoption programs.

"I have enjoyed the years of connecting with this organization and being a dog lover all my life, it's a pleasure to be able to give back through sales of the book," said Burton. She added that, "When I learned about KHS's off-island pet adoption programs, I felt that was the place that could make the most difference."

"Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou: Kauai's Beloved Pup" is a children's illustrated book set in Kauai and based on Bridget's dog Annie, an English Springer Spaniel. It features Annie's adventures throughout the island of Kauai as she canoes, ziplines, surfs, and even enjoys a luau with a Shih Tzu.

In its digital version children can read, or join Bridget who sings the verses, accompanied by Hawaiian steel guitar and ukulele.

The Kauai Humane Society's Executive Director Nicole Crane is delighted to accept these donations. "Our off-island adoption endeavor, Mission Mainland 2.0, recently came to an end with the successful adoption of 125 pets. We would like to continue that effort and the news of Burton's 'give back' program will certainly help us do that." With the costs on the rise for all aspects of their programs, this no-kill shelter with a high-population of pets is looking for ways to encourage and pay for off-island adoptions and reach as many people on the West Coast as possible.

In addition to the monetary donations, Burton is sending press releases to West Coast news outlets, posting on social media, and is donating Hawaiian bandanas for the next 100 pets adopted.

To purchase a book bundle to benefit KHS, readers can visit: https://www.anniekailani.com/KHS/.

To find out more about Mission Mainland 2.0, visit: https://kauaihumane.org/.

Children's sing-along book author and vocalist Bridget Burton will donate $5 from every book bundle sale to the Kauai Humane Society (KHS), starting August 22, 2022. A special "give back" page on the book's website will keep track of purchases of "Annie Kai Lani Kai Lou: Kauai's Beloved Pup" (ISBN: 978-0996216050) hard cover print and companion digital version bundle.

Related link: https://www.anniekailani.com/

Petco Love Invests $12,500 in the Sacramento SPCA to Expand Lifesaving Support for Pets Affected by Disaster

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $12,500 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love, to expand their lifesaving support for animals affected by disaster in Northern California. A special check celebration was held at the Petco retail store located at 855 E. Bidwell Street in Folsom, Calif., on Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 2 p.m.

The Sacramento SPCA has positioned itself as a lifesaving resource for animals in need as devastating wildfires have continued to affect regions all over Northern California.

"We realized several fire seasons ago that one of the best services we can provide here in Sacramento is to help clear out the available animals in shelters closest to impacted regions," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. In 2021, more than 460 animals were transferred from other shelters to the Sacramento SPCA, including areas affected by the Dixie, Caldor, and Monument Fires.

"We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Petco Folsom store and Petco Love to support our lifesaving work," said Altine. "With this $12,500 grant investment, we can provide crates and other emergency supplies to shelters housing displaced animals while people try to put their worlds back together."

Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $330 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations - like ours - across North America, with 6.5 million pets adopted and counting.

"Our investment in the Sacramento SPCA is part of more than $15M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized," said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. "Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We recently celebrated the one-year launch anniversary of Petco Love Lost, a national lost and found database that uses pet facial recognition technology to simplify the search for lost pets."

As the only full-service 100% non-profit animal shelter in the Sacramento region, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. They are local, independent, and do not receive funding from state or local government agencies.

For more information about the Sacramento SPCA visit https://www.sspca.org Learn more about Petco Love here: https://petcolove.org.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 130 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Visit https://www.sspca.org/ or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Petco Love:

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999 as the Petco Foundation, we've empowered animal welfare organizations by investing $330 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We've helped find loving homes for more than 6.5 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide.

Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Join us. Visit https://petcolove.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

LEARN MORE AT:

https://www.sspca.org

https://petcolove.org

The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they received a $12,500 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love, to expand their lifesaving support for animals affected by disaster in Northern California. Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC Releases Bat Guide Providing Connecticut Homeowners with Knowledge to Identify Possible Bat Infestations

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC announced today they released a guide on their website that will help homeowners identify any signs of bat problems or infestations within a home. The guide is called: "How Do I Know If I Have Bats in My Home? 9 Signs You Might Have a Bat Problem."

"Bats are very quiet compared to most pests that can enter your home and because they are more likely to be active in the evening hours, you will have to go through our list to confirm any suspicions if you are sharing your home with bats," says Eric Gray, Owner, Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC.

Gray adds, "There are nine bat species native to Connecticut, including brown bats, the eastern red, silver-haired, and hoary bats. Bats in Connecticut tend to nest in trees but will often end up in sheds, gutters and attics."

Your Hearing Sounds from Your Attic and Walls

Mice and raccoons typically make a lot of noise inside walls and attics, but you can also hear when a bat is flying around inside. Bats that are stuck in an attic or wall can fly around at all hours of the day and night, even though they are nocturnal. Bats stuck in small spaces can make the noises sound louder. If bats happen to live in your attic, you may hear scratching along the walls as they move throughout the space.

It's important to listen for any noises from your attic, this could indicate a bat infestation or another wildlife problem.

Entry Points

Bats use the same one or two entry points to access your attic and this will most likely be found along near your roof. Wall vents, gable vents or loose eaves or siding can be entry points as well. Most of the time you will be able to see it from the exterior of your home. Bats tend to leave a greasy film close to the access point, especially on a lighter color siding.

Droppings

Bats that reside in an attic will often relieve themselves as they squeeze through the opening, this will look dark, spotted, oily or streaky. Look along your eaves and siding to any potential opening when walking around your home.

Visual confirmation

Bats are active in the evening and at night, the best time to confirm the presence of bats in your home is to see them leaving. If you notice an entry point or droppings, wait outside in the evening, and keep an eye out in that area. If you have a bat issue you will most likely see them entering and exiting at this time.

Feeding Roosts

Bats can have several roosts, which they typically use for sleeping and eating. These roosts can often be close together, especially in an attic. Feeding roosts are the easiest to spot as there will be droppings under these roosts as the bats will digest their meals.

Mating

Bat mating season starts in the summer and continues into the fall. This is the most active time of year for bats as they will become more active and fly together or in groups. During mating season, it is also possible to see bats out during the daytime.

Scratch Marks

Bats will leave scratch marks on the surfaces they perch to, which will become noticeable, especially on wood surfaces or drywall. This could also indicate another problem with mice or wildlife, it is important to have a professional check out if you find scratch marks.

Brown Stains on Your Ceiling

If you have many bats in your attic or they have resided for a long time, it is possible that bat urine and excrement can leak into the sheetrock, and you will start seeing brown stains on your ceiling that are similar to a water leak.

Strong Smell in Your Attic

If you are in your attic and notice a very strong ammonia smell, this could be caused by a buildup of bat urine and lack of ventilation. Even if the ammonia smell is subtle, it could indicate that a bat or other animal is urinating in your attic.

If You Have Found Bats in The Attic

Now that you have figured out what signs to look for, you know if you might have bats living in your home. If you do, you are probably wondering how you can get rid of them safely. Gray Brothers can inspect the area and determine if they can remove the animal. Some bat species are protected by the law in Connecticut, they cannot be killed if they are found in your home. Gray Brothers Wildlife are the bat professionals in Connecticut and will quickly and humanely remove any bats found in your home.

LEARN MORE: https://www.graybrotherswildlife.com/

Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC announced today they released a guide on their website that will help homeowners identify any signs of bat problems or infestations within a home. The guide is called: "How Do I Know If I Have Bats in My Home? 9 Signs You Might Have a Bat Problem."

Related link: https://www.graybrotherswildlife.com/