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At Humane World for Animals, we believe that knowledge is the key to better lives for pets, wildlife and the people who care for them. Our expert-curated Animal Care Resources library provides trusted, science-backed guidance on pet adoption, health, behavior, and humane solutions for coexisting with wildlife.

We've compiled these resources to help you make informed, compassionate decisions—whether you’re welcoming a new pet, navigating behavior challenges or seeking humane ways to manage wildlife conflicts.

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Dog digging in the grass
Pet health and safetyCaring for your dog
How to get your dog to stop digging

Entertainment Dogs may dig for entertainment when they learn that roots and soil "play back." Your dog may be digging for...

Person training cute, small dog
Pet health and safetyCaring for your dog
How to reward dogs with positive reinforcement training

Just say yes to training your dog with treats, toys and praise for good deeds to sway them away from unwanted behavior.

Raccoon lounging in a tree
Humane wildlife managementPet health and safety
How to know if an animal has rabies and how to prevent it

Thanks to pet vaccinations, US deaths from rabies has declined from over 100 to about 2 per year, but both people and pets are still at risk. Stay safe with vigilance and prevention.

snake
Humane wildlife management
What to do about snakes

Most snakes are not a threat to either people or pets, so identify the troublemakers to learn what to do if you find any in your yard or home and need to humanely remove them.

domestic pet ferret gets cozy in owners arms
Pet health and safetyAdopting and rehoming pets
Can ferrets make good pets?

Are you thinking about a pet ferret? There are many factors to consider ranging from state and local laws to children's safety to regular care.

Opossums are safe, nonthreatening creatures who are easy to get rid of gently
Humane backyardsHumane wildlife management
What to do about opossums

Opossums are gentle neighbors, rarely dangerous, and often not even responsible for messes they get blamed for. Here's what to do if you have one in a crawlspace.

Three skunks on a porch
Humane backyardsHumane wildlife management
What to do about skunks

Learn how to live near and deal with this gentle species when they enter your yard or garage.

Dog looking at a sunset
Pet health and safety
How to cope with the death of your pet

Sometimes it's hard for others to understand your loss or extend sympathy. Here's how to take care of yourself, your family and other pets when it's time to say goodbye.

Woman holding pet guinea pig
Pet health and safety
Would a guinea pig make a good pet for you?

Guinea pigs are a little higher maintenance than other small pets. Make sure you are ready for the commitment before adopting one of these gentle animals.

baby raccoons in a hollow tree
Humane wildlife management
What to do about raccoons

Wondering what to do about raccoons? Conflicts with these intelligent animals can be prevented and resolved humanely.

Dog drinking water from a water bottle
Pet health and safety
Keep pets safe before the temperature gets too hot

Hundreds of pets are lost each year to heat stroke, especially those left in parked cars. Please take precautions to ensure that your dog or cat is not one of them.

Pet cat in travel carrier going into a car
Pet health and safetyCaring for your catCaring for your dog
Travel safely with your pet

Should you travel with your dog or cat, or find a pet sitter? Tips for how to decide and how to keep your pet safe if you take them along in a car, airplane, ship or train.

Black and white cat lying on plaid blanket holding a pumpkin.
Pet health and safetyCaring for your catCaring for your dog
Halloween safety tips for pets

Some pets love the hustle and bustle of Halloween, while others will find this spooky holiday a bit stressful. We recognize...

Person holding a cute pet rat
Pet health and safetyAdopting and rehoming pets
Is a rat the right pet for you?

Rats have a bad reputation, but they can be just as healthy, smart and charismatic as other pets. Compare them with other small pets, especially if you have kids or are pregnant.

Backyard chickens near their coup.
Adopting and rehoming pets
Adopting backyard chickens as pets

Chicken keeping can be a joyful experience in both rural areas and city backyards, but you'll need to meet their unique care needs to ensure you are a good owner to these pets.

Join us at the Animal Care Expo

Join us April 7-10, 2026 for the Animal Care Expo -- the largest international educational conference and trade show for animal welfare professionals and volunteers.

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