Twelve years after the Michael Vick dogfighting ring was discovered and busted, we salute the heroes who changed the world’s perception of dogs like these.
Author: Jillian Blume
Jillian Blume is a New York City–based writer. Her feature articles have appeared in magazines and newspapers including New York Observer, Marie Claire and Self. Jillian received a master’s degree in creative writing from New York University, has taught writing and literature at the School of Visual Arts and is working on a novel. She passionately supports animal welfare and rescue.
The Amazing Story of a Secret Service Dog Trainer
As a young boy in the 1970s, Leth Oun survived the killing fields of Cambodia. Now he protects U.S. presidents as a member of the Secret Service Canine Unit.
Paws of War: Dogs Who Help Military Veterans With PTSD
At Paws of War, the mission is to train shelter dogs to become service animals — and loving companions — for veterans in need.
Why Buying Your Child a Rabbit for Easter Is a Bad Idea
Is your household ready and willing to care for a new rabbit beyond the holiday?
Spotlight On: Dogs Who Can Sniff Out Cancer
At her In Situ Foundation, Dina Zaphiris trains dogs to detect early-stage cancer from human saliva, urine, plasma and even breath samples.
Service Dogs Who Help Children With Autism
For a long time, Jennifer Mandell and her son Sam were prisoners in their own house. That’s when a yellow Lab named Hagrid entered their lives.
Spotlight On: Bomb-Sniffing Dogs
Explosive detection dogs are on an unbelievably important mission. Find out how they are trained and which breeds are top candidates for jobs like this.
Spotlight On: Guide Dogs
Guide dogs have an important job to do for their human companions. We take a closer look at how they improve our quality of life.
Healing With Horses: How Therapeutic Riding Changes Lives
A single word can change someone’s life — even if a horse is on the listening end. Several equine therapy programs are witnessing small triumphs.
Program Shelters Both Families and Pets From Abuse
An exclusive look inside the NYC program that is helping individuals and families escape domestic violence, knowing that their pets are safe at their side.