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Hi, I'm Wendy Kaplar, a journalist dedicated to storytelling that informs, inspires, and drives change. I focus on sustainability, ethical travel, wildlife conservation, and animal welfare, providing research-backed information and actionable insights that encourage responsible choices. Through my work, I endeavor to raise awareness, shift perspectives, and promote peaceful coexistence among people, animals, and nature.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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.
An unorthodox reunion took place in Boaz, Alabama, when a three-year-old Chihuahua mix named Emma reunited with her owner, Cheyenne Campbell
Learn how to identify and address Dental Pain in Cats. Discover tips to prevent Dental Pain in Cats and ensure your pet's comfort.
Observed annually on February 20, National Love Your Pet Day celebrates the loving bond between humans and their animal companions.
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
A mail carrier in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, sprang into action to save an adult male Rottweiler trapped in an icy creek.
On January 22, NYC Second Chance Rescue responded to a call from a foster parent who had discovered a severely malnourished puppy
North Carolina is actively working to protect the critically endangered red wolf.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
Best Local Newspaper Writer - Finalist - Wendy Kaplar - New Mexico Kids Family Magazine
In this issue, freelancer Wendy Kaplar explores how Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) work with local agencies during times of crisis.
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 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
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.
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.
We welcome Spring in The Coastal Buzz by celebrating Women's History Month: Meet quilt historian Marilyn Gore
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!
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...
New Mexico Kids! Family Magazine May/June 2022
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.
Nutfield News Tri-Town Times April 14, 2022, Volume 18- Issue 15
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.