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Abstract

A Word From Us Our field, in essence, is all about giving animals a second chance at a rewarding life in a loving home whenever possible. Yet for years, the notion that dogs seized from fighting operations could someday make good pets was rejected out of hand by many—including The Humane Society of the United States. But the Michael Vick case challenged everyone to view dogfighting in a new light. One of this issue’s features, “A New Day for Fight-Bust Dogs,” details the emerging options for these victims. Last year, the Association of Shelter Veterinarians released its long-awaited Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters, designed to “balance animal welfare science with practical and realistic recommendations for shelters.” In Part Two of our series discussing how the guidelines can be implemented, veterinarian Sandra Newbury visits the Austin Humane Society, which has implemented enrichment and training practices that have resulted in much calmer, quieter dogs. Many animal welfare organizations couldn’t carry out their mission without the help of those willing to foster animals in their homes—a kindness that opens up much-needed space at shelters and gives little ones a good start in life. As this issue’s Behavior Department illustrates, it’s a big job turning a frisky fur ball into a fun (and well-adjusted) companion. These are just three of the many stories from this issue showing how sheltering professionals, rescue groups, and their supporters are making life better for animals—and giving them a second chance. Tell us your own tales. Email us at asm@humanesociety.org, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook.