Wendy Kaplar

Illinois Bans Traveling Acts Using Monkeys, Bears and Big Cats

At the 2025 Sangamon County Fair, two capuchin monkeys were dressed in costumes and strapped to dogs racing around a small track, an act Illinois has since banned. Marc Ayers, Illinois state director for Humane World for Animals, attended the disturbing Banana Derby performance and said the monkeys repeatedly grasped at the guardrails as the dogs rounded the track.Big cats were still being used in traveling performances across Illinois.

Mule Deer First to Hoof It Across California's New Wildlife Bridge

Three mule deer were the first animals documented using a new wildlife overpass on U.S. 97 in Northern California while the project was still nearing completion, according to researchers from the UC Davis Road Ecology Center and the California Department of Transportation.The crossing is located near Grass Lake in Siskiyou County and is California's first wildlife overcrossing over a state highway.

Marriott Faces Scrutiny Over Wildlife Tourism and Egg Sourcing

An investigation into wildlife tourism and food sourcing in Southeast Asia has placed renewed scrutiny on David Marriott, chairman of Marriott International and a trustee of the National Geographic Society.The investigation, released June 9, 2026, by the International Council for Animal Welfare, examines wildlife tourism attractions and food suppliers in Thailand and Bali, Indonesia.

Highways, Inbreeding, and California's Mountain Lions

In February, California wildlife officials voted to extend threatened-species protections to roughly 1,400 mountain lions across the Santa Cruz Mountains, Central Coast, Santa Monica, San Gabriel, San Bernardino, Santa Ana, and Eastern Peninsular ranges.This decision followed a 2019 petition, temporary protections that began in 2020, and a state review that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife completed in December 2025.

Illinois Bill Would Broaden Traveling Animal Act Ban

Illinois lawmakers have approved a bill intended to broadly expand protections for wild animals by extending the state's ban on using them in traveling shows. Governor JB Pritzker must now decide whether to sign it into law.

Biologists to Return This Summer to Study New Mexico's Rio Grande Cooter

This summer, biologists will return to the Black River in Eddy County to study one of New Mexico's lesser-known native turtles.The Rio Grande cooter, one of New Mexico's 10 native turtle species, is listed as threatened under the state Wildlife Conservation Act and has received less scientific attention than many other North American turtles.New Mexico wildlife officials and researchers from outside the state are working to better understand the turtle's status in New Mexico.Dr. Ivana Mali of No

Discarded Fishing Line Traps Bald Eagle on NC's Haw River

On March 27, Sgt. Claude Smith and Officer Ethan Martin of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission rescued a bald eagle entangled in fishing line near the Haw River by the B. Everett Jordan Dam in Chatham County, North Carolina.The eagle was then taken to the American Wildlife Refuge for care.

Pawsome Ways to Celebrate National Hug Your Dog Day

National Hug Your Dog Day is a joyful way to celebrate the unconditional love dogs bring into our lives. Today offers an opportunity to appreciate our beloved companions who stay by our side through everything, bringing comfort, happiness, and constant affection.Looking for ways to celebrate your furry friend?

National Dog Fighting Awareness Day

April 8 is National Dog Fighting Awareness Day, established by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in 2014 as part of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month.Dogfighting is a felony offense in all 50 states and a federal crime under the Animal Welfare Act, which has prohibited animal fighting ventures since 1976.

National Panda Day

With their round faces and gentle, lumbering movements, giant pandas have a natural charm that is difficult to resist. With only around 1,900 giant pandas remaining in the wild, human affection for these animals has never mattered more.

New Mexico Lawmakers Consider Bill to Preserve Spay-Neuter Program

New Mexico lawmakers are considering legislation that would preserve the state's Affordable Spay/Neuter Law and extend funding for low-cost sterilization services for dogs and cats.

Feline Fix by Five Initiative Supports Early Spay and Neuter

Waiting until 6 months to spay or neuter a cat may be too late. Feline Fix by Five, a national campaign observed each February during National Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, urges cat owners to sterilize pets by five months of age, and veterinary research supports early spay and neuter.

On National Brown Dog Day, Focus on What Matters - Literally

Week after week, potential adopters scroll past the rescue brown and black dogs posted online. At the shelter, visitors walk past kennels with no kennel cards displaying engaging photos that would make them stop and take a second look.

Happy National Australian Shepherd Day!

Australian Shepherds did not originate in Australia. The breed was shaped in the American West by ranchers who needed dogs that could handle long days, rough terrain, and large flocks. In the nineteenth century, ranchers imported sheep from Australia, and the dogs that came with those flocks may have influenced the name.

Winter Birdwatching Helps People and Birds

Birdwatching in winter connects people of all ages to nature, supports mental health, and helps protect birds through simple actions that anyone can take at home.

Madison, WI Prioritizes Adoption with Retail Pet Sale Ban

In a proactive move, Madison, Wisconsin, has enacted a ban prohibiting the sale of cats and dogs in all retail pet stores. The ordinance bars pet stores from selling, offering for sale, or delivering dogs or cats within city limits. Civil penalties apply for violations.

CDC Ends Primate Research Opening the Door to Life Outside a Lab for Macaques

The CDC's shutdown of its macaque research program has put nearly 200 primates in limbo, raising new questions about federal oversight and long-term animal welfare. As the agency winds down decades of infectious-disease studies, advocates and sanctuaries are watching closely to see where the macaques will go next.

Halloween's Cat Through the Ages

The moon rises high this Halloween night, casting expansive obsidian shadows across the Earth. A black cat slips past unseen, its coat devouring the darkness, while its eyes gleam like embers in the glow of jack-o'-lanterns.

Tiki Finds Home Through the Rescue Effect

When the ASPCA pulled several dogs from an apartment in New York City, Tiki was among them. Tiki was believed to be around five years old and arrived deeply fearful. He would lay in his crate without moving, avoided eye contact, and sometimes soiled himself out of fear.

More Pet Owners Recognize Obesity as a Health Problem

Happy National Pet Obesity Awareness Day! Keeping furry best friends happy and healthy is a lifelong responsibility. The right balance of nutrition, exercise, and love helps them live longer and more comfortably.

Senior Dog Meatball Pulled to Safety From Storm Drain in St Tammany Parish

A 17-year-old Shih Tzu mix named Meatball, who is both blind and deaf, was rescued after being trapped for nearly 30 hours in a storm drain in St. Tammany Parish. Because of Meatball's advanced age and physical limitations, there were, of course, very real fears about his ability to make his way back home.

How New Smyrna Beach Lived Up to Its Shark Bite Capital Name in 2024

Not all shark bites are the same. Provoked bites occur when people handle, feed, or otherwise interact with a shark. Unprovoked bites happen without any intentional human involvement. The Florida Museum of Natural History reports that these incidents accounted for half of all U.S. cases and nearly a third of the global total. Florida led the nation in 2024 with 14 unprovoked shark bites, the highest of any state. Where and why these bites arise often depend on a mix of factors, including...

Federal Judge Orders Review of Wolf Protection Denial

A federal judge has vacated a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decision denying Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves in the West, ruling the agency failed to use the best available science.

After a Successful Rescue, Lucky the Dolphin Swims Free in South Carolina's May River

A female bottlenose dolphin stranded in a shallow lagoon in Bluffton, South Carolina has been safely rescued and returned to her natural habitat, thanks to a coordinated effort involving marine biologists, local firefighters, and a few helpful neighbors.

Great White Caught on North Carolina Shore Carries a Migration Message

It is not every day that someone catches a great white shark from shore. Anglers can go their whole lives without ever seeing one caught from the beach, let alone landing one. That is exactly what happened to two surf anglers off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, in March 2025 as they cast lines for local favorites like drum and bluefish. The pair of tar heels ended up reeling in a great white shark measuring between twelve and thirteen feet long.

Rescuers Free Koopa From Tire in Bladen County, NC

On the evening of June 17, 2025, in Bladen County, North Carolina, a curious dog named Koopa got his head stuck in a tire, prompting a coordinated rescue involving local firefighters, EMS personnel, and veterinary staff.

I never talk to strangers on the plane. After my dad died, a passenger helped me talk about my...

I was traveling to spend the holidays with my mom after my dad had died. I usually avoid strangers on the plane, but my seatmate helped me process grief.

Washington State Law Ends Delays in Animal Abuse Cases

Governor Bob Ferguson has ushered through a bipartisan law that fortifies Washington's animal cruelty statutes and wipes away the red tape that once kept officers from stepping in when animals were suffering.Lawmakers cited several recent failures as motivation for the changes.

PA Senator's Commute Turns into a Kitten Adoption Story

On the morning of May 9, 2025 Pennsylvania State Senator Frank Farry was driving to the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association convention in Bethlehem when a strange noise coming from under the hood of his SUV made him pull over in Middletown Township.

Here’s Where U.S. Bird Populations are Dwindling (and Why)

Bird populations within the United States are declining fastest in the very habitats where they should be thriving, according to a new study published in Science. Researchers at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology analyzed 36 million bird observations submitted to the eBird platform by birdwatchers. They combined those records with high-resolution satellite data to track population trends for 495 bird species across North America from 2007 to 2021.

Georgia Says Goodbye to Parking Lot Pet Peddlers with Passage of HB 217

Georgia has outlawed the roadside sale of pets. On May 9, Gov. Brian Kemp signed a new law banning the sale of dogs, cats, and domestic rabbits in public outdoor spaces such as parking lots, parks, flea markets, fairs, and roadsides across the state.The measure takes effect July 1, 2025, and targets unlicensed breeders and sellers who operate without oversight, often in substandard conditions.

Denver Crews Rescue Daisy From Ledge

An overnight search in Denver concluded in early May 2025 when Daisy, a missing dog, was rescued from a 20-foot-high ledge beneath a highway overpass after slipping away from a pet sitter.The incident began on the evening of May 2, when Denver Animal Protection received reports of a dog running along Interstate 25 near the 6th Avenue overpass.

Minnesota Moves to Ban Elective Cat Declawing

Minnesota lawmakers are considering legislation that would ban the elective declawing of cats, positioning the state to follow New York and Maryland in restricting the controversial procedure. The proposals, filed as SF 1935 and HF 1857, would permit declawing only when deemed medically necessary to treat illness or injury.

Emma the Missing Chihuahua Walks Right Into Her Human's Workplace by Wendy Kaplar

An unorthodox reunion took place in Boaz, Alabama, when a three-year-old Chihuahua mix named Emma reunited with her owner, Cheyenne Campbell

Recognizing and Preventing Dental Pain in Cats by Wendy Kaplar

Learn how to identify and address Dental Pain in Cats. Discover tips to prevent Dental Pain in Cats and ensure your pet's comfort.

The History and Science Behind National Love Your Pet Day by Wendy Kaplar

Observed annually on February 20, National Love Your Pet Day celebrates the loving bond between humans and their animal companions.

Professional Team Provides Beautiful Finishes by Wendy Kaplar

For over 40 years, Professional Coatings Corp. has built a formidable reputation as one of Albuquerque's most trusted stucco service providers. Specializing in re-stucco, repairs, and the restoration of damaged

Mail Carrier Safely Delivers Rottweiler by Wendy Kaplar

A mail carrier in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, sprang into action to save an adult male Rottweiler trapped in an icy creek.

Baby Gina the Puppy Saved From Near Death by Wendy Kaplar

On January 22, NYC Second Chance Rescue responded to a call from a foster parent who had discovered a severely malnourished puppy

Wildlife Crossings to Support North Carolina Red Wolves by Wendy Kaplar

North Carolina is actively working to protect the critically endangered red wolf.

Animal Shelter Consumed by Palisades Fire, Ponies Saved Just in Time by Wendy Kaplar

On January 8th, 2025, Philozoia Animal Rescue, located in Santa Monica, found itself directly in the path of the Palisades fire. The California rescue, which primarily cares for dogs, had already evacuated 38 dogs and a pig earlier that day.

Sweet Ribbet's Second Chance by Wendy Kaplar

A larger dog inflicted life-threatening injuries on an adorable black Labrador Retriever puppy named Ribbet shortly after the puppy found a new home. The harrowing encounter put Ribbet in urgent need of medical attention and highlighted the critical importance of adhering to adoption agreements.A family adopted Ribbet from Second Chance Animal Services in Massachusetts when he was just two months old.

Two Orphaned Otter Pups Flourish in the Wild After Rehabilitation by Wendy Kaplar

Two North American river otter pups have been returned to the wild following a five-month rehabilitation by Think Wild Central Oregon and the Wildlife Center of the North Coast.On June 26, 2024, while patrolling Cove Palisades State Park, park ranger Tyler Banks made an extraordinary discovery.

Coyote's Plastic Jar Predicament Ends with Rescue by Wendy Kaplar

Durham County Sheriff's Office Animal Services deputies rescued a coyote with its head trapped in a plastic jar after several days of concern from residents. The obstruction prevented the animal from eating or drinking.Reports of the distressed coyote began surfacing in the Parkwood area of southern Durham County, prompting deputies to search the neighborhood multiple times without success.

Surrendered in Her Golden Years, Sweet Cinnamon Waits for Love by Wendy Kaplar

Cinnamon, a 13-year-old orange tabby, witnessed her world unravel when her beloved owner passed away. A recent Instagram post by Orange County Animal Services' volunteer photographer Albert Harris revealed that the family had concerns about Cinnamon's health.

Celebrate World Kindness Day with Dog-Inspired Acts of Love by Wendy Kaplar

World Kindness Day reminds us of the invaluable lessons our dogs teach us daily about love, compassion, and connection. Our furry friends are true champions of kindness! With their wagging tails, soulful eyes, and endless affection, dogs embody the essence of companionship.

The Trusted Choice for Garage Doors by Wendy Kaplar

Jeff Smith recalls the moment he knew it was time to make the transition from business employee to co-owner: "I suggested that forcing someone to purchase something they didn't want

Have a Happy and Pet-Friendly Halloween! by Wendy Kaplar

Halloween arrives tonight, bringing pumpkins with carved glowing grins, brimming bowls of sugary confections, the cheerful chimes of ringing doorbells, and exuberant chants of "trick-or-treat!" While All Hallows' Eve is among the most magical and memorable occasions, the holiday poses frightful risks for pets. But don't worry!

National Cat Day-A Day to Celebrate and Advocate for All Cats

National Cat Day raises awareness for cats in need of adoption, especially the often overlooked senior cats and those with special needs who are just as loving and deserving of a home. Here are some meaningful ways to get involved: * Volunteer at a Local Animal Shelter: Help make a difference by walking dogs, socializing cats, and assisting with other essential tasks.

A Happy "Tail": Loyal Newfoundland Rescues Beloved Golden Retriever Friend

Do you need a cheerful story to brighten your Tuesday? Read the remarkable tale of a canine rescue that happened earlier this year.A courageous Newfoundland dog and a group of human rescuers banded together to save a distressed Golden Retriever striving to stay afloat.

Sea Lion Ventures Onto Highway 1

Photo Credit: Robyn Budlender / Wix StockAn intrepid sea lion ventured onto Highway 1, close to Santa Cruz, causing a stir as it strayed far from its typical coastal habitat.

California Bill 3053 Seeks to Protect Children's Farm Animals from Forced Sell and Butchery

Jessica Long's daughter participated in a livestock project organized by 4-H in Northern California. As part of the project, the child lovingly cared for Cedar, a brown and white goat with floppy ears. The 9-year-old girl lovingly raised Cedar, who soon became her cherished pet.

Pit Bull Awareness Month

October is Pit Bull Awareness Month. This month challenges us to look beyond stereotypes and appreciate the love and companionship that pit bulls offer. Here are four fast facts to help educate, bring awareness, and highlight this remarkable breed!What's in a name? "Pit Bull" is a catchall term that refers to multiple breeds.

Visually Impaired Kittens Find Friendship and Purrfect Home

And they lived happily ever after...During their stay at the Sevier County Humane Society, two Tennessee-based visually impaired kittens named Radar and Hawkeye developed a close friendship. Both kittens had serious eye injuries when they arrived at the shelter at just ten weeks old.

Helping Lost Cats Find Their Way Home

When walking around our neighborhoods, it's common to see cats outside. Some of these wandering felines have homes and are just out for a bit. Cue the obligatory 'Not all who wander are lost' Lord of the Rings reference. While others are missing the safety and comfort of their cozy cat beds and loving humans.

Stress-Free, Less Time-Consuming Renovations

Most people can sympathize with the inevitable struggles that accompany renovation projects. Often, folks want to throw their hands up amid a renovation project and shout, "There must be an

Committed to "Fixing Garage Doors Right"

What do you do as a savvy salesperson who has sold over one million pizzas and has spent time behind the wheel as a professional race car driver? Well, you

Innovative Architecture Design with A Local Touch

Jeebs & Zuzu is Albuquerque and the surrounding area's premier local design and construction firm, known for its innovative solutions and commitment to excellence. Whether transforming cramped commercial spaces into

Community-Focused Approach to Composting

Since its founding in 1996, Soilutions has steadfastly remained a community-based enterprise. The company is dedicated to reducing landfill waste by transforming organic materials into valuable compost and soil blends.

Albuquerque Journal Readers' Choice Awards 2024

Best Local Newspaper Writer - Finalist - Wendy Kaplar - New Mexico Kids Family Magazine

VOAD and BRSI: Unity in the Storm

In this issue, freelancer Wendy Kaplar explores how Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) work with local agencies during times of crisis.

Dungeons & Dragons

Since 1974, Dungeons and Dragons has captivated the hearts and minds of players worldwide with its imaginative storytelling and unique gameplay mechanics. Now, the popular table game is being used successfully in therapy. The Treehouse counseling center in Albuquerque began its game group in 2018.

Wayne Dalton Builds People-First Relationships

Wayne Dalton Sales & Service of Albuquerque is guided by a simple but powerful purpose - to provide extraordinary customer service. This objective is vividly brought to life through the

Creative Kids! The Children's Collection

Wendy Kaplar shared a post on Instagram: "@wellconveyed @newmexicokids I learned today that I received 3rd place in the 2022 @abqjournal Reader's Choice Awards! I am so honored by this recognition of my work. #writer #writerslife 📝⌨️#historywriter #columnist #researcher #photographer 📷". Follow their account to see 49 posts.

Celebrating 50 Years of Success: Sunshine Plumbing

STEM Santa Fe Nonprofit Brings Minorities, Girls to Science, Technology, Engineering & Math

Best Brunswick Summer Fun

Summer is here in Brunswick County! In this summer 2023 issue of the Coastal Buzz, find events and programs at your Coastal Carolina Active Living center, as well as cool summer activities, great recipes, and garden news. Read about our upcoming Senior Prom, awesome volunteers, and Elder Abuse Awareness advocacy.

Passing the Torch for Family Sciences

We welcome Spring in The Coastal Buzz by celebrating Women's History Month: Meet quilt historian Marilyn Gore

CULTURE AND LAND KEEPERS: Gullah Geeche Heritage in Brunswick County

Warm up this winter with the Coastal Buzz, the magazine for Coastal Carolina Active Living! We have all your center calendars for December through May, plus stories from all over Brunswick County. Visit the Southport Maritime Museum, learn about Gullah Geechee history, and get some cookie recipes for your holiday baking-- yum!

Phone Museum: Museum in ABQ Explores History of Telephones and Communication in NM

Wendy K. on LinkedIn: #writer #writerslife #columnist #researcher #freelancejournalist...

I learned today that I received 2nd place in the 2023 Albuquerque Journal Reader's Choice Awards! I am so honored by this recognition of my...

University Offers Varied Exhibits

New Mexico Kids! Family Magazine May/June 2022

Ask Inotiv and Crinetics to Release the Lab Testing Beagles! by Wendy Kaplar

After experiencing ongoing torturous and heartbreaking lab testing, these beagles are scheduled to be killed. The pain and cruelty the beagles have endured are unfathomable.

Relay For Life Event Seeking Teams for its June Event

Nutfield News Tri-Town Times April 14, 2022, Volume 18- Issue 15

Inspired Products to Encourage Lifelong Learning by Wendy Kaplar

Did you know that the average brain can improve regardless of age? The neurons in our brains have the ability to form complex connections throughout the course of our lives. Cultivating a love of lifelong learning enriches our knowledge of the world around us.

NM History for Kids! The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad by Wendy Kaplar

NM History for Kids! The Real Smokey Bear by Weny Kaplar