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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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Photo of a hen in an free-range farm
Adopting and rehoming petsPet health and safety
Are chickens smart? Yes! And here are five reasons to love them

Wily, hilarious chickens are underrated stars of the animal kingdom with a higher IQ than you might expect.

A brown, fluffy puppy sits in calmly their bed
Be an advocate for animalsAdopting and rehoming pets
How to find an ethical, responsible dog breeder

If you've checked shelters and rescue groups and still haven't found the best pet for you, here's how to find a responsible dog breeder.

Horse nuzzling her foal on a farm
Adopting and rehoming pets
How to adopt or buy a horse

While having a horse in the family can be rewarding, being a successful horse owner requires a great deal of time, money and...

Portrait of a small dog laying on carpet
Adopting and rehoming pets
Find a new home for your dog or cat

Many hardships that arise between owner and pet are temporary or can be resolved with help. Explore how you might be able to keep your pet or find them a happy new home.

Happy dog at outdoor adoption event for animals in shelter
Adopting and rehoming pets
Adopt pets from animal shelters or rescues, not pet stores

Want to add a pet to your family? Local animal shelters and rescue groups can be great places to search for a new cat, dog, bird, small animal, horse, or even pig! Here’s how.

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.

A brown, fluffy puppy sits in calmly their bed
Adopting and rehoming pets
Where to get a puppy and how to adopt a dog

When looking for a puppy, please skip pet stores and internet sites to consider a dog from a shelter or rescue first.

Black and white cat being checked out by a veternarian
Affording your petAdopting and rehoming pets
Are you having trouble affording your pet?

Are you having trouble affording your pet? If you or someone you know is struggling to afford pet food or a veterinarian, help is available.

HSUS staff with a dog being rescued from a large-scale alleged severe neglect case in Florida
Adopting and rehoming pets
Shelters and rescues FAQ

Contents How does the HSUS help local animal shelters and rescue groups? What if I have a concern about my local shelter or...

Horse at Duchess Sanctuary
Adopting and rehoming pets
How to Care for a Horse

This guide covers the fundamentals of proper horse care, including nutrition, shelter, veterinary care, hoof care, exercise, and overall welfare—based on widely accepted animal welfare standards.

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.

Two puppy mill dogs in a cage before being rescued
Adopting and rehoming petsPet health and safetyCaring for your dog
Want to buy a puppy?

There are more than 10,000 puppy mills in the U.S., most of which market themselves as “USDA approved” “small family breeders...

Horse at Duchess Sanctuary
Adopting and rehoming pets
Relinquishing your horse

To thrive, horses require healthy amounts of food and water, adequate shelter and competent care. Horse owners must commit a...

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.

pet hamster looking at the camera with soulful eyes
Adopting and rehoming petsPet health and safety
Would a hamster make a good pet for you?

Thinking about getting a hamster? These adorable, round, and furry creatures are often mistaken for gerbils but they have distinct personalities and care needs. Before bringing one home, it’s important to ask: Are hamsters good pets for you and your household

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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