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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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A father and his daughter play with their beagle puppy
Pet health and safety Caring for your dog
How to bring your new dog home and make them feel welcome

Preparation and patience are key while your dog adjusts to a new home and you learn to live together.

Dogs playing in water with superimposed sign stating: "Warning! Blue-green algal blooms"
Pet health and safety Caring for your dog
Keeping dogs safe in water

Protect your dog from toxic blue-green algae in ponds and lakes, and be alert to the signs of cyanobacteria poisoning.

Pet adoption is the snuggliest option.
Pet health and safety Caring for your dog
How to find a lost dog

Tips for finding your missing dog includes understanding your pet's behavior to consider where they might have run away.

pet hamster looking at the camera with soulful eyes
Adopting and rehoming pets Pet 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

Photo of a cute white gerbil
Adopting and rehoming pets Pet health and safety
Would a gerbil make a good pet for you?

Gerbils can be good pets for older children or families tight on space, but they are not for everyone. Learn how to decide whether to adopt one of these little explorers.

Dog wearing brown dog collar relaxing in a field of yellow flowers
Pet health and safety Caring for your dog
Which type of dog collar is best for your dog?

Every dog needs a collar, chiefly because they need something on which to attach their leash and license, ID and rabies...

small white dog sprayed by skunk getting bath to get rid of skunk smell
Pet health and safety Caring for your dog
What to do when a skunk sprays your dog

Follow these four steps to clean up your canine if your pooch gets sprayed with scent.

Dog in hot car
Pet health and safety Caring for your dog
What to do if you see a dog alone in a parked car

A car in pleasant 72 F degree weather can heat up to over 110 F in under an hour, and an open window may not be sufficient, but it takes only minutes to save a life.

Cat clawing a cat scratching post
Pet health and safety Caring for your cat
Stop cat from scratching furniture with a scratching post

Teach your cat what they can scratch and what is off-limits, like your couch or table.

Two horses nuzzling each other
Pet health and safety
Resources for making a humane end of life decision for your horse

Check out this list of resources from Humane World to learn where to have your horse humanely euthanized, buried, cremated or rendered.

Beagle dog lying on the floor
Pet health and safety Caring for your cat Caring for your dog
Plants and foods that can be poisonous to pets

Pets get into everything and, like babies, tend to explore the world with their mouths. Make sure they stay safe by checking...

A woman cuddles with her cat who is looking at her adoringly.
Pet health and safety Caring for your cat
Is my cat sick? Try this at-home exam

What do healthy cat gums look like, and should your cat's nose be warm or cold? Learn how at-home monitoring can help you keep tabs on your cat's health and know when to see a veterinarian.

Sad dog tethered to a tree
Pet health and safety Caring for your dog
Is it okay to chain or tether dogs?

Have you seen chained dogs in your neighborhood and wondered what to do? Here are some common questions about chaining and tethering, and how you can help.

Two pet rabbits sitting on a rug eating food together from a bowl
Pet health and safety Adopting and rehoming pets
Is a rabbit the right pet for you?

Thinking about adopting a bunny? Learn more to make an informed decision about the commitment they require.

Pet health and safety
Decide how to say goodbye once pets show end-of-life signs

You may never want to think about outliving your pet, but you will have to provide extra care as they get older, and someday, you will have to make tough decisions.

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