The signature program of the nonprofit, Advancing the Interests of Animals (AIA), is its weekly, one-hour nationally syndicated radio show, Animals Today. Currently in its seventh continuous year, this show provides a worldwide platform where individuals and organizations concerned about the welfare of animals can present their viewpoints and promote their causes. It is a communication hub where listeners learn about a wide variety of animal welfare issues as well as the actions they can take to help animals locally and around the globe. Hosted by Dr. Lori Kirshner and co-host/producer Dr. Peter Spiegel, Animals Today airs in multiple markets with a potential audience of millions of listeners. Listeners worldwide may enjoy live shows via internet streaming, and past shows are archived on the Animals Today website and YouTube for free access anytime. Shows can also be accessed as podcasts on iTunes, on Spreaker, on Tune in radio, and on i heart radio.
Different than other radio programs whose focus is merely on pets, Animals Today delves deeper by also promoting increased respect, compassion and kindness toward animals in the wild and farmed animals. Via analysis and commentary, it provides the latest thinking and news about animal rights with the goal of educating listeners of all ages about the current status of animals in society and how people can treat them more humanely. The show’s hosts conduct interviews on a wide variety of animal-related topics with news items from around the globe. Programs have focused on such diverse subjects as the dangers wind farms pose to eagles, shark conservation efforts and language and communication research in non-human animals.
Guests on the show have included celebrities, filmmakers, politicians and government officials, lawyers, authors, scientists, ecologists, food producers, naturalists and activists working in the field. They all share a desire to improve the lives of animals around the world. A few of Animals Today’s noteworthy guests have included Bob Barker, Author Dean Koontz, Actress Tippi Hedren, US Representative Tom Marino, CA Assemblymember Richard Bloom, CT State Representative Fred Camillo, award-winning independent journalist Will Potter, and President, Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Dr. Neal Barnard. Lori and Peter have gone on site to cover The Best Friends National Conference, the FARM animal rights conference, the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary in Texas, and other events and locations of interest.
Animals Today December 16, 2023: Lori gets real (mad) about the American Kennel Club. The Whale Sanctuary Project.
Lori leads off this episode exploring the issue of genetic defects in purebred dogs. There are over 500 known genetic defects in purebred dogs, causing health problems, many severe, at a much greater rate than in mixed breed dogs. These genetic defects go along with selective breeding to a “standard” and these standards are established [ …]
12/19/2023 • 43 minutes, 12 seconds
Animals Today November 18, 2023. Hot news! The miraculous microchip. The Mexican rescue, Isla Animals is building a new home and you can help! Helping community cats in the cold weather.
Peter begins with hot news items including a mass bird killing at Chicago’s McCormick Place, Gavin Newsom signs a fur sale ban in California, a 17’ 2” Burmese python was captured and killed in the Everglades, hero dog in Lebanon saves dumped newborn human, and we say farewell to friend of animals Bob Barker. Lori […]
11/24/2023 • 43 minutes, 14 seconds
Animals Today October 28, 2023. Captain Paul Watson and the book, Hitman for the Kindness Club. Adventures in cat shaving. Memorable dogs of the big and small screen.
Peter begins with the iconic Paul Watson, who continues to fight for animals and the seas. Now leading the Captain Paul Watson Foundation, his new book is titled, Hitman for the Kindness Club – High Seas Escapades and Heroic Adventures of an Eco-Activist. Paul discusses the roots of his activism, his role in virtually crushing […]
10/28/2023 • 43 minutes, 26 seconds
Animals Today September 24, 2023. Captive orca Lolita (Tokitae) has died. Is a pet pig a good idea? PETA undercover work nets animal cruelty convictions.
Lori begins with the sad news of the death of Lolita (also known as Tokitae and Toki), an orca who has lived nearly her entire life in the small tank at the Miami Seaquarium. Even though there were discussions and reports about plans to transport her to a seaside sanctuary, Lori was skeptical that was […]
9/27/2023 • 43 minutes, 10 seconds
Animals Today September 16, 2023. Does the American Kennel Club help or hurt dogs? The Book Beloved Beasts, by Michelle Nijhuis
Lori leads off this episode exploring the issue of genetic defects in purebred dogs. There are over 500 known genetic defects in purebred dogs, causing health problems, many severe, at a much greater rate than in mixed breed dogs. These genetic defects go along with selective breeding to a “standard” and these standards are established […]
9/20/2023 • 43 minutes, 3 seconds
Animals Today Sept 4, 2023. Ensuring Your Pets’ Future. Choosing Safe Dog Toys & Treats. The Official Animals of the 50 States.
We dive into a topic every pet owner should consider: What happens to your pets if you’re no longer around to care for them? Join Peter as he sits down with Attorney Ilene McCauley to discuss the intricacies of future planning for our cherished pets. A passionate animal enthusiast, McCauley applies her expertise to assist […]
9/4/2023 • 43 minutes, 15 seconds
Animals Today August 20, 2023. Wind farms vs: whales. Bats, rabies and you! Wild and wonderful animal adaptations. Hot news.
Lori begins the show with worrisome events surrounding the ever-expanding offshore wind farm industry and its probable detrimental effect on whales. The recent alarming increase of the deaths of whales, mostly humpbacks, along the eastern shores of the US coincided with increased construction of wind farms and windf arm activity. There are many ways offshore […]
8/31/2023 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 17, 2023: Mosquito musings. Bee and wasp stings. Animal Trivia.
This episode of Animals Today dives deep into the world of mosquitoes and their impact on our world. Did you know August 20th was World Mosquito Day? We discuss the history of these little pests, particularly their notorious connection to diseases like malaria. Discover how Sir Ronald Ross changed the game in 1897 by unveiling […]
8/19/2023 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today August 5, 2023. There is no longer any justification for horse racing. What happens in industrial pig farming? Koalas exposed.
Peter begins the show welcoming Patrick Battuello to discuss the work of his organization, Horseracing Wrongs, in exposing the many cruelties thrust upon horses in the racing industry. Dedicated to ending the cruel and deadly horse racing industry in the United States, Horseracing Wrongs was the first and continues to be the only organization to […]
8/9/2023 • 43 minutes, 2 seconds
Animals Today July 31, 2023. Negative consequences of dog breed stereotypes. Dogs rescued from the Yulin meat festival flown to their new lives. Names of groups of animals.
Lori begins the show by taking on the still controversial topic of laws and regulations aimed at specific dog breeds, generally referred to as breed specific legislation. There are hundreds of such laws and regulations on the books across the US, which regulate or ban certain dog breeds. Breed specific legislation (BSL) typically targets pit bull […]
7/31/2023 • 43 minutes, 37 seconds
Animals Today July 21, 2023: How to rescue a pet trapped in a hot car. Risks of blue-green algae to dogs. Rhinoceros protection and facts.
During the summer heat, you may come across a situation where an animal, typically a dog, has been left alone in a car that is too warm for comfort or safety. Even though it’s no secret that leaving dogs in hot cars is dangerous and often illegal, it continues to happen too frequently. So, we […]
7/21/2023 • 42 minutes, 34 seconds
Animals Today June 24, 2023. Hot news update! Giraffe conservation facts and challenges. What defines a dangerous or vicious dog? Tough question!
Peter begins with an animal news round-up including giraffe conservation, why people must not approach wild animals in national parks or anywhere, imagining a world teeming with T. rexes, mad cow madness and the continuing tragedy of horse racing. Lori then continues the giraffe theme with facts and queries about these magnificent, gentle beings. June […]
6/28/2023 • 42 minutes, 51 seconds
Animals Today June 3, 2023: Acclaimed animals, imaginary and real. Early days of the Audubon Society. You can help dogs, cats and horses in Africa with Animal-Kind International.
We begin the show with a delightful romp across the animal kingdom and the animated creatures of renown with Lori and Peter. Apologies to Jim Henson. Then, learn about the early days of the Audubon Society, why and how it came to be, with Kate Kelly. Peter continues by welcoming Karen Menczer, Founder and Director […]
6/4/2023 • 43 minutes, 15 seconds
Animals Today May 14, 2023: The dark side of wind energy. Hail, amazing microchip. War dogs. Marsupial madness, feat. koalas.
Lori begins with a monologue about the state of the contemporary wind turbine industry, and their negative effects on animals. There is a lot of evidence that eagles are killed by wind turbines despite efforts of the companies to avoid being transparent. Lori favors efforts to move toward green energy but argues that animal protection […]
5/23/2023 • 43 minutes, 10 seconds
Animals Today March 26, 2023. Law breaking in animal activism: The Direct Action Everywhere and Smithfield Foods episode. Frog conservation. Pet safety and pesticides.
Lori begins the show with the story of the five activists who, in 2017, entered Circle Four Farms in Utah, intent on documenting animal abuse at Smithfield Foods huge pig facility housed there. But not only was extremely graphic video obtained, but the men also rescued 2 nearly dead piglets, which was not part of […]
3/28/2023 • 43 minutes, 23 seconds
Animals Today March 22, 2009. Steve Hindi of SHARK. Top reasons for vet visits. Feline diabetes. Understanding microchips. Why did 2 bull mastiffs kill their owner?
Lori’s First guest is Steve Hindi, who leads SHARK (Showing Animals Respect and Kindness). They discuss a variety of topics including canned pigeon shoots, rodeos and hunting. The hour concludes with Peter taking one of his first of many animal related quizzes. Lori continues discussing the most common reasons animals go to the veterinarian, and […]
3/22/2023 • 1 hour, 38 minutes, 3 seconds
Animals Today January 15, 2023. History of the animal rights movement. Pet care coverage in case of emergency at home. Please don’t adopt or buy a wolfdog. The Beatles had many songs about animals. Vertebral disc disease with a veterinary neurologist.
Lori begins with something any animal advocate ought to know about: the history of the animal rights and welfare movements. From the practices of ancient spiritual teachers of India, to the ideas of modern philosophers, Lori hopes this condensed history will inspire you to continue learning on your own. Next, do you have a plan […]
1/16/2023 • 43 minutes, 13 seconds
Animals Today December 4, 2022. NYC Squirrel alert! Hitchcock’s birds. Toxoplasmosis update. Hazards of pet foods. Koalas rock!
Lori begins the show with news about some aggressive urban squirrels in Queens, NYC, who are reportedly jumping onto people and attacking them. Authorities advise against hand feeding, which probably contributed to the bold behaviors these animals are displaying. Fortunately squirrels rarely harbor rabies, and no documented case of transmission of rabies to humans has […]
12/4/2022 • 42 minutes, 46 seconds
Animals Today November 11, 2022. Helping Orangutans and the problems with palm oil. Good company: Paul and Cindy Rodgers’ impressive work as animal advocates. What’s a zoologist, anyway?
In recognition of International Orangutan Day, Lori and Peter kick off discussing some of the fascinating facts about these great apes. These gentle creatures are the largest tree-dwelling animals on earth. Indeed they even sleep in the trees, fashioning leafy nests each evening for that purpose. Orangutans are native to only 2 island on earth, […]
11/14/2022 • 43 minutes, 2 seconds
Animals Today – October 15, 2022: Green energy is killing eagles. Is the term “crazy cat lady” fair? The working dogs of WW I. Keeping track of people convicted of animal cruelty.
Lori begins with a monologue about the state of the contemporary wind turbine industry, and their negative effects on animals. There is a lot of evidence that eagles are killed by wind turbines despite efforts of the companies to avoid being transparent. Lori favors efforts to move toward green energy but argues that animal protection […]
10/14/2022 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today September 27, 2022. Ethical and practical considerations of breeding dogs. This AP level animal quiz has teachers crying.
Lori begins with a detailed exploration into the ethics of dog breeding. The purebred dog industry not only creates innumerable animals with genetic defects, causing dogs to have a lifetime of medical problems and diseases, but also interferes with the adoption of healthy dogs confined in shelters by enticing people to buy from breeders instead […]
9/29/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 25, 2022. It’s a tough road for owners in possible veterinary malpractice cases. Are you afraid of sharks quiz?
If you believe your pet was harmed by the actions of your veterinarian, what are your legal options for recourse? In this episode, Lori explores many aspects of veterinary malpractice with attorney Bob Ferber, former Los Angeles animal cruelty prosecutor. Although there are some parallels between the law as it relates to medical malpractice issues […]
8/25/2022 • 43 minutes, 13 seconds
Animals Today August 3, 2022. How to rescue a pet trapped in a hot car. Risks of blue-green algae. Rhinoceros protection and facts.
During the summer heat, you may come across a situation where an animal, typically a dog, has been left alone in a car that is too warm for comfort or safety. Even though it’s no secret that leaving dogs in hot cars is dangerous and often illegal, it continues to happen too frequently. So, we […]
8/3/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 26, 2022. Update on breed specific legislation. More animal news stories. Wabbits.
Lori begins the show by taking on the still controversial topic of laws and regulations aimed at specific dog breeds, generally referred to as breed specific legislation. There are hundreds of such laws and regulations on the books across the US, which regulate or ban certain dog breeds. Breed specific legislation (BSL) typically targets pit bull […]
7/2/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 12, 2022. Hot news with Peter. Frogs in decline. High velocity animal quiz. Pesticides around the house.
We begin with Peter reporting on a new article which provides more details on the amazing color changing abilities of octopuses. Their tiny color altering organs are highly specialized and under the exquisite, fine control of the animals’ nervous system. The abilities of octopuses to control their displays improve as they mature. Peter continues discussing […]
6/19/2022 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today Radio May 21, 2022. Chickens are very smart and have individual personalities: Celebrating a special day for chickens. Animal knowledge challenge.
Animals Today Radio May 8, 2022. Chickens are very smart and have individual personalities: Celebrating a special day for chickens. Animal knowledge challenge. The question about the chicken and the egg has puzzled people since antiquity and has served as a metaphor for many circumstances in our world. Lori begins the show offering up some […]
5/21/2022 • 43 minutes, 23 seconds
Animals Today April 30, 2022. Do rats deserve their own special day? Is sleeping with pets disruptive or helpful? Avoiding rabies.
In recognition of World Rat Day, Lori kicks off the show by going deep on these ubiquitous mammals. Rats are very social, affectionate, and intelligent. They get lonely and anxious when isolated. But when in their family group (referred to as a mischief) they will care for the injured and sick. Rats can be trained […]
5/13/2022 • 43 minutes, 22 seconds
Animals Today April 23, 2022. Latest difficult news from Ukraine. Dog Bite Prevention Week.
Lori begins speaking about the disaster for animals in Ukraine with Chris DeRose and Cindy Beal DeRose from Last Chance for Animals (LCA). The situation on the ground for animals continues to be bleak and deadly. Terrified abandoned dogs are starving and do not know where to go. Dogs, cats and other animals are enduring […]
5/2/2022 • 37 minutes, 3 seconds
Animals Today April 2, 2022: Ukraine war update from Paws of War. The cruelty continues at Alaska’s infamous sled dog race. More animal adaptations.
Lori begins with an update on the situation in Ukraine and the war region with Robert Misseri, founder and President of Paws of War. The situation Robert describes is very fraught, with starving and terrified animals roaming and hiding, worsened by severe hindrances to relief efforts due to the ever-present danger. Sometimes, dumping bags of […]
4/20/2022 • 42 minutes, 38 seconds
Animals Today March 26, 2022. Toxin and poison hazards for pets. Delight in zebras
What toxins and poisons would you guess are most commonly ingested by our dogs and cats? Well, the data on this question actually exists, thanks to the ASPCA, which recently published a list of the most common exposure and ingestion incidents from the ASPCA Poison Control Center (APCC). Lori explores this list, adding our personal […]
3/30/2022 • 42 minutes, 39 seconds
Animals Today March 12, 2022. The captive orca Lolita at the Miami Seaquarium is “retiring”. Ukraine animal report. Dogfighting goes on. Bunnies and rabbits in popular culture: a quiz.
Lori begins with big news from Florida where the captive Orca named Lolita (also known as Tokitae) has finally been permitted to “retire.” Lori recounts the life of this poor, lonely creature, ripped from her mother at age four for a life in captivity at the Miami Seaquarium. Lolita has been performing for 52 years! […]
3/17/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Feb 20, 2022. Support the FDA Modernization Act! What can and should shelters disclose about the history of their adoptable dogs?
We begin speaking with Wayne Pacelle about pending legislation in both the House and Senate, the FDA Modernization Act, which would eliminate the animal testing mandate for development and approval of new pharmaceutical drugs for human use. Mr. Pacelle, as President of Center for a Humane Economy, Founder of Animal Wellness Action, and CEO of […]
3/6/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Feb 13, 2022. Honoring Cecil, the gentle giant. Oral health in pets. Trivia quiz.
Lori begins this show honoring the iconic Lion, Cecil, who was killed in 2015. Some of our younger listeners may not remember this tragic event, but its reporting broke through to the popular press and social media, raising awareness about the horrors of sport hunting and trophy hunting. Cecil was a large, black-maned male Lion […]
2/28/2022 • 41 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 5, 2022. First pig to human heart transplant spells trouble. Truck carrying 100 macaques crashes, releasing animals onto the frigid highway. Hot news. Dementia in dogs. Famous dogs of Hollywood.
We begin with the very big story of the first transplant of a heart from a pig to a human. Xenotransplantation, organ transplant between species, has been a medical goal for decades. The main hinderances to “progress” in this field have been related to organ rejection owing to the brisk immune response to foreign tissues. […]
2/18/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today January 15, 2022. Leaving animal testing behind. Should you worry about rabies? MRI scans on dogs? Is sleeping with your pet disruptive? Saving the Saola. Hot news.
Lori begins the show with a discussion of the myriad problems with testing of consumer products like cosmetics on animals. Despite rapid advances in technology that is capable of replacing animal testing, antiquated and cruel methods still are often employed in the US and Canada. Notably, the FDA does not require animal testing and 40 […]
1/24/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today January 8, 2022: Home invader killed by owner’s pet dogs – who is responsible? The miracle of the microchip. Eight big cats in zoo get sick after getting COVID vaccine. Hot animal news to kick off the new year.
The show begins with Lori sharing fascinating animal news items. First, a 21-year-old man broke into a Georgia home and was mauled to death by the homeowner’s 2 dogs. The dogs were confiscated but later returned to the owner. Lori analyzes the many important legal and social elements here such as, who is responsible for […]
1/14/2022 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Dec 30, 2021. Aggressive squirrels in NYC. Hitchcock’s The Birds. Feline toxoplasmosis. Tainted pet food harms and kills hundreds of dogs and cats.
Lori begins the show with news about some aggressive urban squirrels in Queens, NYC, who are reportedly jumping onto people and attacking them. Authorities advise against hand feeding, which probably contributed to the bold behaviors these animals are displaying. Fortunately squirrels rarely harbor rabies, and no documented case of transmission of rabies to humans has […]
12/30/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 4, 2021. Citizens revolt against Oakland’s aggressive killing of free roaming cats. Golf courses still want to shoot migratory birds. Is your dog or cat getting a bit fat? Bodacious bison. California has a fabulous donkey rescue.
Toward the end of 2020, without public notification, the East Bay Parks District in Oakland, California began killing (specifically, shooting) free roaming cats. After a local news report exposed the actions, the story exploded, as cat lovers, rescuers and the community at large became shocked and enraged by the sanctioned cruelty. The city claimed that […]
12/9/2021 • 0
Animals Today November 23, 2021. Wild elephants captured to become zoo exhibits. Growing use of comfort dogs in court. Animal facts you need to know.
It was recently disclosed that the Namibian Government auctioned off 57 elephants caught from the wild, with the intention to export 42 of them to foreign zoos. With the widespread awareness about the cruelty of keeping wild elephants in captivity, this news is both shocking and tragic. Elephant expert and President of Humane Society International, […]
11/24/2021 • 43 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today August 28, 2021. Mosquitoes, malaria and DDT. Protecting dogs from bee and wasp stings.
Lori begins the show speaking about those pesky and sometimes dangerous mosquitoes, because August 20th was World Mosquito Day! Mosquitoes carry malaria, yellow fever, West Nile Virus, Zika virus, and others. World Mosquito Day is intended to raise awareness about mosquitoes transmitting malaria and other diseases. In 1897, the link between mosquitoes and Malaria was discovered […]
9/27/2021 • 34 minutes, 44 seconds
Animals Today September 18, 2021: Hot animal news. History of the first animal shelter. Keeping pets save from encounters with snakes.
The show begins with a very strange story about a lost and frightened cat observed at a packed football stadium heroically rescued by American patriots as she slipped off the upper deck railing. We continue with an update on the horse abuse during the modern pentathlon event at the Tokyo Olympics and there’s incredible new video […]
9/19/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 14, 2021: Coexisting with coyotes with Dr. Robert Reed. Our most beloved animated animals. Successful and safe road trips with cats.
The show kicks off with a talk about coyotes with Robert Reed, DVM, Medical Director at VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital in Rancho Mirage, California. Coyotes are one of the most maligned animals in the US. Yet, despite systematic abuse and eradication efforts, their range is bigger than ever. Coyotes have a long history living […]
8/30/2021 • 0
Animals Today July 30, 2021: Top ten pet toxins and poisons. Another insane animal quiz.
What worrisome toxins and poisons would you guess are most commonly ingested by our dogs and cats? Well, the data on this question actually exists, thanks to the ASPCA. In 2020, the ASPCA Poison Control Center (APCC) helped more than 370,500 animals by providing lifesaving information and supplying safety guides. They compiled the top ten […]
8/15/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today July 17, 2020. Tips on rescuing overheated dogs from locked cars. Unsuspecting tourists aid the abuse of pack animals in Arizona. Should we worry about toxoplasmosis?
As the summer temperatures rise, you may come across a situation where an animal, typically a dog, has been left alone in a car that is too warm for comfort or safety. Even though it’s no secret that leaving dogs in hot cars is dangerous and often illegal, it continues to happen too frequently. So, […]
8/3/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today July 10, 2021. Hazards of so-called blue-green algae to dogs. Medicated lotion for people poses toxic risk to pets. Using simulations to train law enforcement on dog encounters. Know your A, Bee, Cs!
This season, there have been reports of dogs becoming sick and dying after exposure to ponds harboring the so-called blue-green algae. Especially frightening is that even clear ponds can sometimes have the blue-green algae growing in them and that exposure can cause rapidly progressive illness and sometimes death. Blue-green algae contain deadly bacteria called cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria […]
7/20/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 20, 2021. A dark side of shelter operations. Potpourri quiz.
This show features Attorney Bob Ferber, former Los Angeles animal cruelty prosecutor, who joins Lori to explore some of the rarely discussed practices in shelters claiming to be “no-kill.” The Term “no-kill”, as in no kill shelter, imparts a feel-good aura to shelters, but in reality, it is poorly defined and not used in a […]
7/10/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today July 2, 2021. Celebrating the American eagle. Is xylitol toxic to dogs? Risks of blue-green algae to your dog.
Celebrating the American eagle In honor of Independence Day we begin with a discussion about how the bald eagle became part of the Great Seal of the United States, and how its extinction was averted. Bald eagle populations are now strong. Then, Lori continues with more fascinating facts about both bald and golden eagles. The […]
7/2/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 6, 2021. Lotsa animal news! Bee and wasp stings. Famous dogs of the big and small screen.
We begin with news from around the world including the discovery of a giant tortoise on Fernindina Island on the Galapagos (which was thought to be extinct), great white sharks are thriving off the pacific coast, two Texas sheriffs shot and killed while making a house call about a dog bite incident, President Biden urged […]
6/12/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 1, 2021. A condensed history of the animal rights movement. Free roaming cat issues. Pet obesity epidemic. Pro safety tips for choosing treats and toys.
Lori begins with something any animal advocate ought to know about: the history of the animal rights and welfare movements. From the practices of ancient spiritual teachers of India, to the ideas of modern philosophers, Lori hopes this condensed history will inspire you to continue learning on your own. We continue with stories about hummingbirds, […]
5/24/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today April 24, 2021: Is there meaningful recourse in cases of veterinary malpractice? Rhino challenge.
If you believe your pet was harmed by the actions of your veterinarian, what are your legal options for recourse? In this episode, Lori explores many aspects of veterinary malpractice with attorney Bob Ferber, former Los Angeles animal cruelty prosecutor. Although there are some parallels between the law as it relates to medical malpractice issues […]
5/4/2021 • 41 minutes, 21 seconds
Animals Today April 10, 2021: Hot animal news! It’s World Rat Day!
We begin with hot animal news including, Utah bans cruel battery cages for egg laying hens, another close call at the San Diego Zoo after a father dropped his child into the elephant enclosure, Russia announces COVID vaccine for animals, encephalitis outbreak in bears causing their excessively friendly behavior, a young boy starts a bunny […]
4/19/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 27, 2021: Top ten pet toxins and poisons. Another insane animal quiz.
What toxins and poisons would you guess are most commonly ingested by our dogs and cats? Well, the data on this question actually exists, thanks to the ASPCA. In 2020, the ASPCA Poison Control Center (APCC) helped more than 370,500 animals by providing lifesaving information and supplying safety guides. They compiled the top ten pet […]
4/3/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 13, 2021: Wolf massacre in Wisconsin: So many mistakes! Does animal assisted therapy help children?
As a consequence of the lifting of ESA protections for grey wolves, and a judgement win for a Kansas based trophy hunting group, a horrific but legal massacre has just occurred in Wisconsin. The National Resources board opened up the hunt in the state, allowing a quota of 119 wolves to be killed, but inexplicably […]
3/24/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 6, 2021. Visiting the dog park. Cold weather advice for dogs. Wonderful bees.
Lori kicks it off with Los Angeles based attorney Ken Phillips to speak about the risks related to dog parks. Dog parks can be wonderful places, but the risks and hazards to people and dogs in and around the parks are real. Risks such as aggressive dogs, irresponsible owners, and unclean conditions need to be […]
3/14/2021 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today February 28, 2021. Hot animal news. Protecting Orangutans and their ecosystem. Pet products industry growth. Zoology challenge.
We begin with news from around the world including the laudable work of Sea Turtle, inc, which rescued thousands of cold stunned animals from the frigid waters during February’s extreme weather event, new DNA analytical methods permit noninvasive study of animals in the wild, University of Michigan freaks out due to 3 tiny spiders in […]
3/6/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 20, 2021. Ethical considerations of breeding dogs. Canine dental hygiene. Rapid-fire quiz.
Lori begins with a detailed exploration into the ethics of dog breeding. The purebred dog industry not only creates innumerable animals with genetic defects, causing dogs to have a lifetime of medical problems and diseases, but also interferes with the adoption of healthy dogs confined in shelters by enticing people to buy from breeders instead […]
2/23/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 6, 2021. Australian pigeon avoids death sentence. The cruelty of pigeon racing. LA’s effective and groundbreaking animal cruelty task force shut down by Chief of Police. Hippo hilarity.
Lori begins with a story about a pigeon who caused a great stir in Australia when he was found by a couple there. That’s because he was wearing an identification band on his leg indicating he was from Alabama, so people presumed he had flown all the way across the pacific. This was not good […]
2/16/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Jan 30, 2021. Aggressive squirrels in NYC. Hitchcock’s The Birds. Feline toxoplasmosis. Tainted pet food harms and kills hundreds of dogs and cats.
Lori begins the show with news about some aggressive urban squirrels in Queens, NYC, who are reportedly jumping onto people and attacking them. Authorities advise against hand feeding, which probably contributed to the bold behaviors these animals are displaying. Fortunately squirrels rarely harbor rabies, and no documented case of transmission of rabies to humans has […]
2/7/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today January 17, 2021. Hot animal news. Obesity epidemic in dogs. Emotional support animals lose airline privileges. Famous dogs of film and TV.
We begin with hot animal news including gorillas have tested positive for coronavirus at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, aflatoxin tainted pet food outbreak sickens and kills many pets, a nearly intact extinct woolly rhino carcass has been unearthed, and more. Lori goes on to update us on the problem of seriously overweight and […]
1/29/2021 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today Jan 9, 2021. New rules to limit Emotional Support Animals on planes. Hot news. Operation Baghdad pups. Know your koalas.
Emotional support animals in flight This show begins with news about the Department of Transportation’s decision to ban emotional support animals from airliners. Also new is that for registered service animals, only dogs will be permitted to fly. Service animals are specifically trained to assist people with disabilities such as visual impairment, mobility limitations or […]
1/21/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Jan 3, 2021. The move away from animal testing continues. Hot news. Canine cognitive dysfunction. What’s in a meow?
Lori begins the show with a discussion of the myriad problems with testing of consumer products like cosmetics on animals. Despite rapid advances in technology that is capable of replacing animal testing, antiquated and cruel methods still are often employed in the US and Canada. Notably, the FDA does not require animal testing and 40 […]
1/13/2021 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 19, 2020: Hot end of the year news. BLM to try sterilization surgery instead of medicine on wild horses – good idea?
We kick off this show with some end of the year animal news stories from around the world including dogs being trained to detect COVID, the continued decline of the fur industry in Europe, hunting of black bears (including cubs) to resume in Missouri, UK moves toward banning the export of live animals to the […]
12/31/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Dec 12, 2020. New rules to limit Emotional Support Animals on planes. Hot news. Solving challenging cat behaviors.
This show begins with news about the Department of Transportation’s decision to ban emotional support animals from airliners. Also new is that for registered service animals, only dogs will be permitted to fly. Service animals are specifically trained to assist people with disabilities such as visual impairment, mobility limitations or a propensity to have seizures. […]
12/26/2020 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today November 21, 2020. Helping birds around the home. Wolfdogs. Animal abuse registries. Pet loss and kids. Cheetahs! Tropical reef fish.
This show begins with Lori and Peter discussing some nifty things you can do around your home to help animals such as hummingbirds and other birds. Then Darlene Kobobel, President of the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center returns to discuss the many problems related to wolf-dog hybrids, properly called wolfdogs. You will want to think twice before […]
11/30/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Nov 1, 2020. Trump’s historical endorsement of the PACT Act.
Lori begins by reflecting on the most important animal news story of 2019, the passage of the PACT Act (Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act) into law. Its passage reflects the growing understanding that for some types of animal related crimes, federal laws are needed to effectively address them. The roots of the PACT Act […]
11/2/2020 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today September 19, 2020. Farm animal protection. Operation Baghdad Pups. Know your koalas.
Factory farming To begin, Peter welcomes Josh Balk, VP of Farm Animal Protection at the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). Josh reports the HSUS is waging a strong campaign against factory farming on a number of fronts. One effort involves legislative campaigns to ban the confinement of egg laying hens, mother pigs and […]
9/28/2020 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today September 12, 2020. Movement toward stronger animal cruelty laws. Animal abuse in medical training. Changing times in pet industries. Trivia challenge.
To begin this show, Lori shares news out of Mississippi, where important anti-animal cruelty legislation was recently signed into law by Governor Tate Reeves. The new law fixes deficiencies statewide, where the old law did not allow for multiple charges when multiple animals were harmed, and where it did not take into account repeat offenders. […]
9/18/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 5, 2020. Mosquitoes, malaria and DDT. Protecting dogs from bee and wasp stings.
Mosquitoes are disease vectors Lori begins the show speaking about those pesky and sometimes dangerous mosquitoes, because August 20th was World Mosquito Day! Mosquitoes carry malaria, yellow fever, West Nile Virus, Zika virus, and others. World Mosquito Day is intended to raise awareness about mosquitoes transmitting malaria and other diseases. The breakthrough in understanding malaria […]
9/12/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 29, 2020. The rise and fall of Joe Exotic. Federal legislation to end big cat ownership. The dogs of WW II. We love sharks.
Lori begins the show discussing the many problems with private ownership of big cats, with guests Tracie Letterman, Vice President of Federal Affairs at Humane Society Legislative fund and Lisa Wathne Senior Strategist, Captive Wildlife, Humane Society of the United States. The Rise of Joe Exotic Netflix hosted a popular show called Tiger King, which […]
9/2/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 15, 2020. Updating an ancient Jewish holiday that will benefit animals and the environment. Challenges abound in managing animal hoarding.
To begin, Lori Welcomes back to the show, Richard Schwartz, President emeritus of Jewish Veg, formerly Jewish Vegetarians of North America (JVNA). A coalition of Jewish organizations is urging that the ancient, largely forgotten Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah L’Maaser Biheima (New Year’s Day for Tithing Animals) be renewed into a modern New Year for […]
8/18/2020 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today August 8, 2020. International Orangutan Day is August 19. How to help orangutans. The evils of palm oil. Vervet monkey conservation. Some pet owners really annoy us: Here’s why.
In recognition of International Orangutan Day, August 19, 2020, Lori and Peter kick off discussing some of the fascinating facts about these great apes. These gentle creatures are the largest tree-dwelling animals on earth. Indeed they even sleep in the trees, fashioning leafy nests each evening for that purpose. Orangutans are native to only 2 […]
8/12/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today July 29, 2020. Summer health and safety guidelines. Respecting frogs. Incredible animal adaptations. Safe use of pesticides in and around the house.
Lori and peter kick off the show talking about summertime heat topics like avoiding and recognizing heatstroke in dogs, ways to encourage pets to drink water, tips for those whose dogs like to swim, and more. Conservationist and educator Matt Ellerbeck then discusses frog conservation and the main threats to populations of these diverse and […]
7/31/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today July 19, 2020. Why should I switch to a plant-based diet? What will happen to your pets if you pass away?
Why should I switch to a plant-based diet? Have you thought about trying a plant-based diet? Well, if you have not yet adopted this healthful and compassionate practice, please listen to Lori’s persuasive argument for trying it now. Eating a diet higher in plant foods and lower in animal products can have many health benefits, […]
7/20/2020 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today July 4, 2020. Celebrating the American eagle. Is xylitol toxic to dogs?
Celebrating the American eagle In honor of American Eagle Day we begin with a discussion about how the bald eagle became part of the Great Seal of the United States, and how its extinction was averted. Bald eagle populations are now strong. Then, Lori continues with more fascinating facts about both bald and golden eagles. […]
7/4/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 20, 2020. Tips on rescuing overheated dogs from locked cars. Unsuspecting tourists aid the abuse of pack animals in Arizona. Should we worry about toxoplasmosis?
As the summer temperatures rise, you may come across a situation where an animal, typically a dog, has been left alone in a car that is too warm for comfort or safety. Even though it’s no secret that leaving dogs in hot cars is dangerous and often illegal, it continues to happen too frequently. So, […]
6/25/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 13, 2020. Is blue-green algae harmful to dogs? Medicated lotion for people is a toxic risk to pets.
Is blue-green algae harmful to dogs? In 2019, there were a number of reports of dogs becoming sick and dying after exposure to ponds harboring the so-called blue-green algae. In fact, guardians should exercise caution about algae during each warm weather season. This spring, it’s been especially warm in Florida and the algae blooms have […]
6/15/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 24, 2020. The history of the animal rights movement. Dogs of WW I. Famous dogs we all love.
Highlights of the animal rights movement. Lori begins with something any animal advocate ought to know about: the history of the animal rights and welfare movements. From the practices of ancient spiritual teachers of India, to the ideas of modern philosophers, Lori hopes this condensed history will inspire you to continue learning on your own. […]
5/27/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 21, 2020. How animals think and feel with Professor Temple Grandin
How animals think and feel This show features Professor Temple Grandin of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Services at Colorado State University. For decades, Dr. Grandin has been writing and speaking about how her having autism has helped her obtain a deeper understanding into the minds of animals. Her main insights are that animals, […]
5/24/2020 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today May 9, 2020. How to keep your pets safe and happy during the coronavirus. What are some interesting facts about sharks?
How to keep your pets safe and happy during the coronavirus The well being of our pets (at least most of them) demands adequate mental and physical stimulation. This show begins with Lori’s tips and ideas on how to keep your pets safe and happy and stimulated during the unusual restrictions placed upon us all […]
5/12/2020 • 42 minutes, 52 seconds
Animals Today May 2, 2020. Pet adoptions and fostering during COVID-19. What’s happening at shelters and at rescues during this lockdown?
Pet adoptions and fostering during COVID-19 Lori begins by welcoming Larissa Wohl, resident pet rescue expert of Hallmark Channel’s “Home and Family.” Is now, during the pandemic quarantine, a good time to adopt and/or foster pets? Larissa emphatically answers yes, but there is a concern that as life normalizes and people return to school and […]
5/6/2020 • 42 minutes, 21 seconds
Animals Today April 25, 2020. US funding Chinese virus labs! US live animal markets under scrutiny. What are the chances of zoonotic diseases breaking out?
US funding Chinese virus labs! We begin by welcoming Justin Goodman from White Coat Waste, where he serves as vice president of advocacy and policy. The US Government is the world’s largest funder of animal experiments, estimated at 20 billion dollars per year. Tens of millions of dollars go overseas yearly. White Coat Waste is […]
4/28/2020 • 42 minutes, 10 seconds
Animals Today April 22, 2020. What should shelters tell potential adopters about dogs who have bitten in the past?
When someone wants to go to a shelter or a rescue group to adopt a dog, what must the organization disclose about the history of the dog? Specifically, if the dog is believed to have a history of biting, does this need to be disclosed? What should shelters tell potential adopters about dogs who have […]
4/22/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today April 5 2020: Can pandemics be avoided? The problem with animal agriculture
Can pandemics be avoided? Lori’s guest for this show is Dr. John Pippin, Director of Academic Affairs at Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, is a nationwide organization of physicians, scientists, educators, and laypersons that promotes preventive medicine, especially good nutrition, and addresses controversies in modern medicine, including ethical […]
4/8/2020 • 43 minutes
Animals Today March 28, 2020. Can pets get the coronavirus disease? Animal welfare and investing
Can pets get the coronavirus disease? Lori kicks off this show beginning with Leigh Hofmeister, DVM, who addresses questions all pet guardians have been wondering about during the Covid-19 viral pandemic including if pets can become ill from the virus and if they can transmit the virus to people and make them ill. They also […]
3/31/2020 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today March 7, 2020. China has banned the trade and consumption of wild animals. Faux or fur? Rodenticides.
China has banned the trade and consumption of wild animals We begin with hot animal news stories from around the world. At long last, we are excited to hear the positive news that China has banned the trade and consumption of wild animals. This was a temporary suspension initially, but once the Coronavirus ( or […]
3/12/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 22, 2020. Animal rights and welfare. Health benefits of pet ownership.
Animal rights and welfare – a condensed history. Lori begins with something any animal advocate ought to know about: the history of the animal rights and welfare movements. We discuss the practices of ancient spiritual teachers of India, as well as the ideas of modern philosophers, plus much more. Lori hopes this condensed history will […]
2/28/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 19, 2020. Is breeding dogs unethical? Don’t forget to brush your pet’s teeth!
Is breeding dogs unethical? Lori begins with a detailed exploration into the ethics of dog breeding. The purebred dog industry not only creates innumerable animals with genetic defects, causing dogs to have a lifetime of medical problems and diseases, but also interferes with the adoption of healthy dogs confined in shelters by enticing people to […]
2/19/2020 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today February 15, 2020. Why is the egg industry cruel? What is the healthiest food to feed my cat?
Why is the egg industry cruel? Lori begins the show with a discussion of the substantial cruelty that’s part of modern industrial egg production. France and Germany are leading Europe’s drive to improve industry practices, and we hope other countries will follow. Virtually all chickens start off life at industrial hatcheries. Male chicks, who will […]
2/17/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 2, 2020. How zoos harm elephants. Legal help for animal advocacy.
How zoos harm elephants. Lori begins by welcoming back to the show Will Anderson with the elephant program at In Defense of Animals (IDA). Will and Lori discuss IDA’s 2019 review of the worst North American zoos for elephants and the cruel realities of keeping these majestic creatures in captivity. It’s a pretty bleak picture. […]
2/5/2020 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today January 18, 2020. Stolen dog reunited with family. Meth in horse racing. Dog ownership benefits. Dog parks.
Stolen dog reunited with family We begin with animal news from around the world including how a stolen dog is reunited with his family thanks to a 2000 mile volunteer-led transport. This is a genuine heart-warming story of survival, determination and cooperation! Meth in horse racing We reveal the scandalous problems with meth in horse […]
1/20/2020 • 43 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today December 28, 2019. Top animal stories of the year.
2019 was an exceptional year for animals, with many achievements promoting the welfare and rights of nonhuman animals around the world. One example is California becoming the first state to go fur free, banning the sale and manufacture of new fur items! In this important Animals Today episode, Lori counts down her list of the […]
12/31/2019 • 43 minutes, 16 seconds
Animals Today December 14, 2019: The American Bald Eagle in our culture and why animals are like humans
Donald Trump Jr killed rare endangered sheep in Mongolia We begin with animal news stores from around the world including ten grizzlies welcomed at Colorado’s Wild Animal Sanctuary, Donald Trump, Jr. kills protected argali sheep in Mongolia, NY violinist soothes shelter dogs, fallen elderly woman rescued due to actions of pit bull, Simba, and more. […]
12/20/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 7, 2019: Passing the PACT Act and choosing the best pet sitter services
Passing the PACT Act Lori begins with news of President Trump signing and Passing the PACT Act – the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act into law, providing long overdue penalties for animal cruelty and torture on the federal level. The Passage of the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act was welcomed by Kitty Block, […]
12/14/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today November 30, 2019. Why breed-specific legislation is not the answer & being a foster parent for animals
Why breed-specific legislation is not the answer Lori begins the show by discussing why breed-specific legislation is not the answer and the various laws and regulations which restrict ownership of certain dog breeds, collectively known as breed-specific legislation (BSL). Many cities and municipalities have enacted such restrictions, believing they will decrease dog bites and promote […]
12/8/2019 • 43 minutes, 9 seconds
Animals Today November 23, 2019. Victory for whales held in Russia! The Challenges African Elephants face
Whales released from Russian whale jail Lori’s first guest is Charles Vinick, Executive Director of the Whale Sanctuary Project. Vinick and his colleagues, which included Jean-Michel Cousteau, were instrumental in persuading Russian officials to get 87 whales released from Russian whale facility. Amongst the whales were beluga whales and 10 captive orca whales, all housed […]
11/28/2019 • 43 minutes, 7 seconds
Animals Today November 16, 2019. Dog nutrition controversy, mutton busting and sea turtle poachers arrested!
Sea turtle poachers busted! We begin the show with animal news from around the world including NYC establishes its Office of Animal Welfare, the first sighting in decades of the diminutive mammal called the silver chevrotain in Vietnam, turtle poachers arrested in Florida, an endangered lemur stolen from a Santa Ana zoo is recovered, and […]
11/17/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today November 2, 2019. Should animals be used in dangerous jobs? Animals with the strongest bites.
Should animals be used in dangerous jobs? The highly publicized raid which resulted in the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi again raises the question of whether it is ethical or justifiable to use non-human animals in military and police operations, where the animals face great risks of injury and death. In this instance, Conan, the […]
11/11/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 26, 2019. Medical testing on animals. Dogs detecting cancer.
Medical testing on animals Lori kicks off the show welcoming Dr. John Pippin, Director of Academic Affairs at Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). As part of PCRM’s work to end the use of live animals in medical and veterinary training programs, it recently was informed that so-called terminal surgeries were being used at Tuskegee […]
10/29/2019 • 43 minutes, 21 seconds
Animals Today October 5, 2019: The history of the animal rights and welfare movements. Risks of rabies.
The history of the animal rights and welfare movements Lori begins with something any animal advocate ought to know about: the history of the animal rights and welfare movements. From the practices of ancient spiritual teachers of India, to the ideas of modern philosophers, Lori hopes this condensed history will inspire you to continue learning […]
10/11/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 28, 2019: The ban on trophy hunting of endangered wild animals- has it ended? Best Pet Friendly Cities.
The ban on trophy hunting of endangered wild animals – has it ended? The Trump administration is allowing the ban on trophy hunting of endangered wild animals to be lifted as an American hunter is allowed to bring body parts of a lion that he shot in Tanzania into the United States. Importing African lions […]
10/6/2019 • 43 minutes, 21 seconds
Animals Today September 14, 2019. Elephants in Captivity and CITES: Banning the export of wild elephants from Africa.
This show features elephant expert Will Anderson, with In Defense of Animals, who provides the background and events leading up to an important new international agreement to limit the exportation of wild elephants from Africa to the US, China and other countries. Elephants in Captivity Lori begins covering a few key events related to elephants […]
9/17/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals September 7, 2019: Risks of blue-green algae to dogs. Exposing and closing cockfighting operations.
Risks of blue-green algae to dogs This season, there have been reports of dogs becoming sick and dying after exposure to ponds harboring the so-called blue-green algae. Especially frightening is that even clear ponds can sometimes have the blue-green algae growing in them and that exposure can cause rapidly progressive illness and sometimes death. Veterinarian […]
9/12/2019 • 43 minutes, 14 seconds
Animals Today August 31, 2019: Will cruel cyanide bombs be banished? Liability and safety tips for dog owners.
Will cruel cyanide bombs be banished? Lori begins the show by welcoming Collette Adkins, Carnivore Conservation Director at the Center for Biological Diversity to talk about the animal killing devices known as “cyanide bombs”. These have been used for decades with the stated purpose of controlling predatory wolves, foxes, coyotes and wild dogs, and the […]
9/5/2019 • 43 minutes, 16 seconds
Animals Today August 24, 2019: What did Trump do to the Endangered Species Act? Miniature horses as service animals.
Lori begins by welcoming Wendy Keefover, Senior Strategist, Carnivore Protection at the Humane Society of the United States to explain the newly announced rule changes to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by the Trump Administration. The ESA became law in 1973 and currently protects 1600 species in the US and its territories. Wendy explains that […]
8/29/2019 • 42 minutes, 58 seconds
Animals Today August 17, 2019: Finding shelter and homes for ALL animals
Lori welcomes two special guests on this show: Inga Fricke, Director of Shelter Initiatives and Outreach for the Humane Society of the United States. Holly Sizemore, Chief Mission Officer, Best Friends Animal Society. Finding shelter and homes for ALL animals Over the past few decades, we have made great strides in reducing the number of […]
8/21/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 10, 2019: In defense of pit bulls. Alternatives to Animal testing.
In defense of pit bulls Lori begins with an impassioned discussion In defense of pit bulls on behalf of her favorite type of dog, the pit bull. More than other dogs these days, pit bulls are often seen in a negative light. This has led towns and communities to enact ordinances against specific dog breeds, […]
8/17/2019 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today August 3, 2019: Why is the amphibian population declining? Choosing toys and treats for dogs.
Woman receives jail sentence for feeding cats News of an elderly Ohio woman being sentenced to jail for feeding outdoor cats has become the subject of great interest to animal lovers, the legal community and the general public. We begin today’s show asking legal expert Bob Ferber how this could happen, and if a jail […]
8/10/2019 • 43 minutes, 8 seconds
Animals Today July 27, 2019: Why should almond milk not be called milk? How can we save orangutans from extinction?
Almond milk vs: almond beverage. Lori begins speaking about deceptive advertising practices employed by the diary industry, and then moves on to the compelling health reasons for eliminating dairy from our diets. With the large variety of alternatives now available, it has never been easier to drop dairy from our diets. Giving up cheese can […]
8/4/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today July 13, 2019. Should otters be kept as pets? Will the cat declawing ban become law in New York?
We begin with hot news stories including Japan resumes commercial whaling, a juvenile black bear was shot by authorities after becoming habituated to people who left food for him, a report predicts most of meat consumed by 2040 will be grown in bioreactors and not from slaughtered animals, a 2 year old boy dies from […]
7/18/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 29, 2019: Why exotic animals should not be pets and trap, neuter and release programs for feral cats.
Why exotic animals should not be pets Private ownership of wild animals like big cats, monkeys and bears typically leads to a life of neglect and cruelty for the animals, as well as presenting risks to the owners and the community. Fortunately, the practice is decreasing, but there remains far too many bad situations around […]
7/3/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 22, 2019. The cruelty of horse racing. Legal animal news. Cats in popular songs.
The cruelty of horse racing Lori begins the show with an extended discussion about the cruelty of horse racing. This season, California’s Santa Anita Park has attracted significant media attention and activity on social media, as the number of horses who have died there keeps growing. Even Senator Diane Feinstein called for an immediate moratorium […]
6/28/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 15, 2019. National Pet Preparedness Month. Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act (PACT).
National Pet Preparedness Month. Does your emergency plan include your pets? If a natural disaster strikes, like a flood or earthquake, or if you had to be evacuated from your home on short notice, do you have all the supplies your pets need, like their food, medicines, crates and carriers? Have you thought about where […]
6/19/2019 • 43 minutes, 15 seconds
Animals Today June 8, 2019: What to do if you see a dog in a hot car. Laws about emotional support animals
What to do if you see a dog in a hot car As the summer temperatures rise, you may come across a situation where an animal, typically a dog, has been left alone in a car that is too warm for comfort or safety. Even though it’s no secret that leaving dogs in hot cars […]
6/14/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 25, 2019. Stopping puppy mills. Pets for Vets. The American Eagle. The complexities of domesticated sheep.
Stopping puppy mills President Trump is the first White House occupant who has not had a dog, and Lori begins the show sharing Trumps’ comments about not having a first dog. Then, Lori describes how animal advocate Lara Trump, the President’s daughter-in-law, is working with Congressman Matt Gaetz and Congressman Brian Mast to strengthen the […]
6/4/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 18, 2019. Farewell Doris Day. Update on rabies. Ultra potent rodenticides are harming wildlife, pets and children.
Lori begins the show with a remembrance of Doris day, who died May 13, 2019 at the age of 97. A Hollywood legend, she was known for her talents as a singer, dancer and as a pioneering advocate for animals. She was an early opponent of animal testing, and persuaded Alfred Hitchcock to ensure humane […]
5/24/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 11, 2019. Why are so many animals endangered? The PETA International Science Consortium. Tips on adopting abused animals.
Why are so many animals endangered? Up to 1 million of the world’s 8 million plant and animal species now face extinction. We begin with Lori explaining the results of the UN sponsored report just issued by Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), titled The IPBES Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and […]
5/14/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 4, 2019: Another season of seal killing in Canada is here. How do I take my dog to the dog park safely?
Another season of seal killing in Canada is here. Each spring, tens of thousands of baby seals in Canada are brutally killed for their pelts. Even though dozens of countries, including Russia and the members of the EU have banned the sale of seal products, and despite strong worldwide condemnation of the seal hunts, the […]
5/9/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today April 27, 2019. The Iditarod sled dog race must end. Horse, donkey and mule abuse in the Grand Canyon.
The Iditarod sled dog race must end The 2019 version of the Iditarod sled dog race has concluded. Billed as the “Last Great Race on Earth,” it is unfortunate that this race lives on, because the dogs endure tremendous amounts of physical stress during the event, and neglect and cruelty both before and after the […]
5/4/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today April 20, 2019: Do rabbits make good pets? How do you stop illegal dog fighting? Preventing dog bites.
Do rabbits make good pets? To kick off this show, Lori welcomes Anne Martin, PhD., Executive Director of House Rabbit Society. Lori and Anne begin by talking about the many joys of living with one or more pet rabbits. They continue discussing some of the serious rabbit welfare issues including overpopulation (they are the third most […]
4/22/2019 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today April 6, 2019: High blood pressure in dogs and cats. Ways to reduce stress in shelter dogs
Hot Animal News We begin with animal news including Senator Feinstein takes an interest in horse deaths at Santa Anita Park racetrack, high pesticide residues present in common fruits and vegetables, Ohio’s state animal is now the shelter pet, the USDA ends a toxoplasmosis research program that killed thousands of kittens, and more. High blood […]
4/9/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 30, 2019: Visual identification of dog breeds. New animal provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill.
Visual identification of dog breeds We begin with Peter’s interview with Arizona State University Psychology Professor, Clive Wynne, who leads the Canine Science Collaboratory. Its main areas of inquiry are dog welfare at the animal shelter, behavioral problems in the home, human-dog interaction, dogs’ wild relatives, and cognitive aging in canines. Peter and Clive cover […]
4/3/2019 • 43 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today March 23, 2019. Why are frogs important to their habitat? Going undercover at an animal research lab. The first animal shelter in the US.
Hot animal news We begin with top news stories including China is taking steps to drop animal testing requirements for cosmetics, continued trouble (horse deaths) at California’s Santa Anita Park racetrack, meals provided in NYC public schools will soon be vegetarian on Mondays, Florida takes up new anti-tethering bill to protect dogs and more. Why […]
3/28/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 16, 2019: What is the purpose of microchipping a dog? Legislation to help horses. A rescue and sanctuary for foxes.
Hot animal news! We begin with animal news including the use of service animals and emotional support animals on airline flights is being further restricted, falsely claiming an animal as a service animal is being criminalized, an animal-free attraction is being considered in the site of the recently shuttered Dolphinaris Arizona, a woman was severely […]
3/22/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 9, 2019: The illegal trade of African Grey Parrots. Saving frogs. Best and worst states for animal protection laws.
The illegal trade of African Grey Parrots We begin with Ben Williamson, Programs Director at World Animal Protection. Huge numbers of live wild animals are traded as pets and much of this trade is illegal and involves endangered and protected species. Undercover investigations have shown Turkish Airlines and its cargo carrier Turkish Cargo as […]
3/14/2019 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today February 23, 2019: Helping vervet monkeys. Fun hippopotamus facts
Hot Animal News We begin with this weeks’ top news: Captive beluga whales will be released into a large seaside sanctuary in Iceland, Cuvier’s beaked whale was shown to be the deepest diving whale, Donald Trump, Jr. continues his big game hunting activities, overweight dogs can die 2.5 years earlier than ideal weight dogs, a […]
2/28/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 16, 2019. Suspicious activity at the Safari Club International hunters’ convention. Caring for community cats in cold weather.
Hot animal news. We begin with animal news items from around the world, including the death of the fourth dolphin at Dolphinaris Arizona, salmonella risks posed by pet hedgehogs, new insights into the intelligence of dogs, sleeping with bed, the unremitting Norwegian whaling industry, and more. Suspicious activity at the Safari Club International Hunters’ convention […]
2/19/2019 • 43 minutes, 5 seconds
Animals Today February 9, 2019: Is fur losing its popularity? What is special about whales?
Is fur losing its popularity? This show features PETA’s Ingrid Newkirk to speak about fur. Lori once again has the pleasure of speaking with one of the most important and visionary figures in the animal rights movement, and Ingrid begins by recalling the early days of PETA’s opposition to fur as a product. They go […]
2/13/2019 • 42 minutes, 13 seconds
Animals Today February 2, 2019: Live animal markets in US. Dolphins are dying at Dolphinaris Arizona. Polar Bears.
Animals in the news. We begin with hot animal news of the week including an airport detection dog finding 5000 leeches in a suitcase, a 22 year old zoo employee killed by a lion in North Carolina, bone cancer in dogs treated with immunotherapy is a new method that might help humans, and the top […]
2/2/2019 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today January 26, 2019: Dental issues in dogs. What is animal hoarding?
Animal News. We begin with stories about the fear of spiders, drug detection dogs, a very special dog adoption, extraordinary measures taken by one woman to keep her cats nearby, Wally the emotional support alligator, and more. Dental issues in dogs. Then Lori talks about dental issues in dogs and shares some memories about one […]
1/30/2019 • 42 minutes, 48 seconds
Animals Today Jan 19, 2019: Pigs as companion animals. Penguin update. A new vegan mentoring program.
Hot Animal News! We begin news of a new law in California, where pet stores will only be permitted to sell dogs, cats and rabbits from rescue groups or shelters, and not from breeding facilities. Also, an Iowa ag-gag law was just struck down as a violation of 1st amendment protections, and the demand for […]
1/22/2019 • 43 minutes, 15 seconds
Animals Today January 5, 2019: Japan quits International Whaling Commission. Profile of animal advocate, Lori Marino, PhD.
Japan quits International Whaling Commission The government of Japan has announced it will leave the International Whaling Commission, cease whaling in the Southern Ocean, and begin commercial whaling in the Pacific Ocean. To explain the significance of this action, Peter welcomes Kitty Block, President of Humane Society International and Acting President and CEO of the […]
1/7/2019 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 22, 2018: PETA’s Ingrid Newkirk. Striking at the Roots, by Mark Hawthorne.
PETA’s Ingrid Newkirk Lori kicks off this show with Ingrid Newkirk, President and Co-founder of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). Founded in 1980, PETA is the worldwide leader advocating for the rights of all living beings, and Newkirk continues to provide strong and unwavering leadership of the organization. They discuss many topics […]
12/25/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 15, 2018: Resolve to help animals in the New Year. Diabetes in dogs. Reindeer games.
Resolve to help animals in the New Year As 2018 draws to a close, many of us have begun to consider what we can do to make the New Year better for ourselves, for others, and for the world. So it won’t surprise you that here at Animals Today, we are asking, what can I […]
12/17/2018 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today December 8, 2018: Animals and mandatory evacuations in natural disasters. The dangers of raw meat pet food
Animals and mandatory evacuations in natural disasters We begin focusing on the impact of the recent Southern California fire on animals and their guardians. Known as the Woolsey Fire, this huge, destructive fire killed 3 people, destroyed 1,643 structures and prompted the evacuation of more than 295,000 people. Frequent guest Bob Ferber and his animals […]
12/10/2018 • 42 minutes, 48 seconds
Animals Today December 1, 2018: Fur farming in Europe. Is your city friendly for pets? Encouraging cats to stay hydrated.
Fur farming in Europe We begin by welcoming Angela Grimes, Acting CEO of Born Free USA to tell us about their new report on fur farming in Europe. There is a very wide range of practices and laws across the continent, with Luxembourg, the UK, Austria, Slovenia Macedonia, and Croatia having total bans. Where farming […]
12/4/2018 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today November 17, 2018: Greyhound racing to end in Florida. California Prop 12 passes, easing cruel conditions for some farmed animals.
Greyhound racing to end in Florida We begin with great news out of Florida! The citizens have voiced their strong desire to end greyhound racing by passing Amendment 13. Peter speaks with Christine Dorchak with Grey2K USA, which has been fighting for greyhounds for 2 decades. Dorchak calls greyhound racing industrialized cruelty, in which the […]
11/20/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today November 10, 2018: What dogs can’t have on Thanksgiving? Incredible animal adaptations.
What dogs can’t have on Thanksgiving? The show begins with Lori sharing her research on which Thanksgiving foods can be shared with pets, including suggested modifications of traditional dishes and ingredients to avoid. Feed your dog from your plate this Thanksgiving, and their holiday could be ruff! While nothing may feel better to you than […]
11/13/2018 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 17, 2018: Can climate catastrophe be averted?
Can climate catastrophe be averted? In this show, we welcome Professor Richard Schwartz, Ph.D., to discuss whether a looming climate catastrophe be averted. He discusses the pressing issue of climate change, and how the widespread adoption of vegetarian and vegan diets are key to literally saving the earth. Vegan and vegetarian diets are not just […]
11/9/2018 • 24 minutes, 29 seconds
Animals Today November 3, 2018: Police are using training simulators for dog encounters.
WWF reports humanity is wiping out global wildlife. Lori begins with a shocking report from World Wildlife Fund, which demonstrates that humanity has wiped out 60% of all wild animal life on earth since 1970. Peter and Lori then continue with other news, including President Trump’s signing of much appreciated legislation to continue funding NOAA’s […]
11/2/2018 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 27, 2018. Who gets to keep the dog after a breakup? Idaho Fish and Game Commissioner Resigns Amid Criticism
Who gets to keep the dog after a breakup? We begin with Lori speaking with attorney, Mark Momjian about a groundbreaking law just passed in California, which gives family court judges greater latitude when deciding pet custody disputes in divorce and legal separations. Not only does the law give family courts discretion to award sole […]
10/30/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 18, 2018: The connection between dog breeding and dog euthanasia. What are the symptoms of a cat with allergies?
The connection between dog breeding and dog euthanasia We begin with Lori speaking to Elizabeth Oreck, National Manager of Puppy Mill Initiatives for Best Friends Animal Society about the connection between intentional dog breeding, overpopulation and euthanasia of homeless dogs. For years, Lori has been explaining how dog breeders contribute to shelter crowding and consequently […]
10/18/2018 • 49 minutes, 10 seconds
Animals Today October 13, 2018. What are the benefits of quitting dairy? Who gets to use the term, milk?
What are the benefits of quitting dairy? Lori begins speaking about deceptive advertising practices employed by the diary industry, and then moves on to the compelling health reasons for eliminating dairy from our diets. With the large variety of alternatives now available, it has never been easier to drop dairy from our diets. Giving up […]
10/15/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 6, 2018. Helping animals affected by Hurricane Florence. Dogs and cats living together.
Helping animals affected by Hurricane Florence. We begin with Robert Misseri, President of Guardians of Rescue, a New York-based organization that is providing relief and support to animals and people affected by Hurricane Florence. Robert reminds us to be prepared for disasters and to evacuate with your pets when advised! Dogs and cats living together […]
10/8/2018 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today Sept 22, 2018. Reflections on the private ownership of wild animals. All you need to know about rabies. A new life for former research chimpanzees. Iguanas, red pandas and detection dogs.
Private ownership of wild animals like big cats, monkeys and bears typically leads to a life of neglect and cruelty for the animals, as well as presenting risks to the owners and the community. Fortunately, the practice is decreasing, but there remains far too many bad situations around the country. Lori beings the show reflecting […]
9/23/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 15, 2018: Cosmetic testing in California. Allergies in cats. Paul Rodgers, animal advocate. Hot animal news.
In California, a bill is headed to Governor Brown’s desk, which will ban the sale of cosmetics if the final form of the product or any of its ingredients were tested on animals. Elizabeth Baker, Regulatory Policy Director for Physician’s Committee for Responsible Medicine, joins Lori to describe how the bill evolved and how the […]
9/16/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 8, 2018: The strongest animal bites. Swim with dolphin programs losing appeal. Highly trained detection dogs are helping conservation efforts. Save the Koala month!
This show begins with Lori counting down the bite power of the ten strongest nonhuman biters, with many facts about the included animals. Featured are lions, grizzly bears, gorillas, and crocodiles. Then Peter welcomes Dr. Naomi Rose, Marine Mammal Biologist, Animal Welfare Institute, to discuss swim with dolphin programs. A new Mexican owned facility has […]
9/10/2018 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today September 1, 2018: Fighting consumption of dog meat in Asia. Animal Crackers gets a new box. Scottsdale is the most pet friendly city. Allergies in dogs, with Dr. Doug Kunz.
We begin with Shelly Fitzpatrick, who has traveled to South Korea twice to join activists working to end the consumption of dog and cat meat there. Politics, traditional culture and economics are all factors and currently, there are 17,000 dog farms in the country. Listen in to hear a first person account and learn how […]
9/4/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animal Today August 25, 2018. Controversies in wild horse management. Pesticide and weed killer news. How palm oil infiltrated our food supply. Why did a shuttered circus send its elephants to the Memphis Zoo?
The Bureau of Land Management is proposing a study of wild mares, in which they would undergo invasive sterilization surgery, to control the wild horse population. According to our first guest, Attorney Bruce Wagman, the proposed procedure is especially risky when employed in the wild, and there are other safer sterilization methods. Bruce is a […]
8/26/2018 • 39 minutes, 43 seconds
Animals Today Aug 18, 2018: Progress and challenges in solving pet overpopulation. Orangutans in peril. Giant African rats are detecting land mines. Dangerous bacterium resides in the saliva of healthy dogs and cats. SuperZoo 2018 – first impressions.
In recognition of International Homeless Animals’ Day, Lori reviews the progress made in the past few decades to address pet overpopulation and to decrease the killing of healthy dogs and cats in shelters. Fantastic progress has been made, but there still is work to do. Why not take a moment today to think about what […]
8/18/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 4, 2018: Animal news roundup. Colorado’s Wild Animal Sanctuary and the captive wildlife crisis. Toxoplasmosis risks.
The show begins with a variety of recent animal news stories including an alligator on a beer run, stealing a shark from the San Antonio Aquarium, and a near-fatal bite from a pet cobra. Peter then welcomes Pat Craig, Executive Director of The Wild Animal Sanctuary, located in Colorado. There is a captive wildlife crisis […]
8/17/2018 • 43 minutes, 7 seconds
Animals Today July 28, 2018. Helping pets stay safe and cool in summer. Jaguar escapes zoo enclosure. A prisoner is paired with a pit bull, and both lives are transformed. The first animal shelter in the US.
Are ice cubes in the water bowl a good idea? Is it legal to break a car window to free a distressed animal? How can you and your pets endure the loss of A/C from power outages? Summer brings unique challenges to people and their pets and we offer ways to survive the heat. Peter […]
7/29/2018 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today July 21, 2018. Illegal trade of smaller wild cats. Do you live in a pet friendly city? What does the law say when a dog bites a trespasser? Coral Reef Awareness Week.
This show begins with Kelly Donithan, US Exotic Pets Manager at World Animal Protection. Recently, four servals, two caracals and one savannah cat were confiscated from an alleged dealer in New York. Staff from World Animal Protection triaged the malnourished and diseased juveniles, stabilized them, and transported them to safety. Donithan is seeing more evidence […]
7/24/2018 • 41 minutes, 3 seconds
Animals Today July 14, 2018. Helping thoroughbreds. Amazing bees. A new shark book from National Geographic Kids. Pet peeves about our pets.
We begin with Susan Kayne, Founder and CEO of the Unbridled Thoroughbred Foundation, which is dedicated to saving the lives of thoroughbreds at risk of slaughter. The Foundation’s efforts focus on advocacy, education, funding, and media, and equine rescue, adoption, and sanctuary. Then, how well do you know your bees? These ubiquitous flying insects are […]
7/17/2018 • 43 minutes, 36 seconds
Animals Today July 7, 2018: Antibiotics in animal agriculture. Fascinating giraffes. Ecotourism may harm animals. Managing pesticide risks to our pets.
Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill into law that makes California the country’s leader in reducing the routine, irresponsible and harmful use of antibiotics in animal agriculture. More antibiotics are used in agriculture than for human disease, and their use causes the creation of antibiotic resistant bacteria that harm and kill people. Jonathan Kaplan, Director of […]
7/10/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 30, 2018. The eagle in American culture and history. Yes, we are crazy about our dogs. Summertime brings special hazards to dogs. Happy fourth to all pets and people.
In honor of American Eagle Day we begin with a discussion about how the bald eagle became part of the Great Seal of the United States, and how its extinction was averted. Bald eagle populations are now strong. Plus, know which products contain xylitol, and why dogs must not eat them! Then, Lori continues with […]
7/3/2018 • 41 minutes, 39 seconds
Animals Today June 23, 2018: Try a plant-based diet! Heartworm update. Helping the pets of homeless people. So you think you know about sharks?
Have you thought about trying a plant-based diet? Well, if you have not yet adopted this healthful and compassionate practice, please listen to Lori’s persuasive argument for trying it now. The show continues with Veterinarian Dr. Robert Reed, giving us the latest on prevention and treatment of heartworm disease. Then, Peter is joined by Genevieve […]
6/26/2018 • 40 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today June 16, 2018. The amazing Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary. Remembering Leona Helmsley’s dog, Trouble and other more serious estate planning concerns. Interior department proposes a cruel rule change in Alaska – now is time to act! Our pet peeves about pet owners.
A recent incident where a macaque escaped his enclosure while being moved through the San Antonio International Airport caught our attention. The animal, who was tranquilized and gently recaptured, is now safely living the good life at Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary. Prashant K. Khetan, Chief Executive Officer & General Counsel at Born Free USA […]
6/17/2018 • 43 minutes, 12 seconds
Animals Today June 2, 2018. Monkey selfie settlement nixed by court, presenting new challenges for expanded rights for animals. Driving safely with dogs. Attend the 2018 Animal Rights National Conference in LA. All about bees.
We begin with an update on the famous monkey selfie legal case, based on the iconic photo which Naruto, a wild crested macaque, snapped of himself. A federal court has invalidated the settlement between PETA lawyers and the camera’s owner, emphasizing that Naruto may not own legal rights to the image. Attorney Bob Ferber, former […]
6/4/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 26, 2018. “Feeding two birds with one scone.” Humane animal idioms. Emotional support animals at Yale. Canine Confidential, by Marc Bekoff. Preventing dog bites. Differences between dog and cat people.
The show begins with a fun segment about animals in popular sayings. Many of them, such as, like shooting fish in a barrel, evoke cruel and violent images, so we are always on the lookout for nicer substitutes. Listen in and tell us what you think. And please share your favorite humane animal idioms on […]
5/29/2018 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today May 19, 2018: Caged animals at a high school prom. Captive tigers in the US. Elephant protection in Africa. Annoying things people do to their animals.
The show begins with Lori’s discussion about the recent prom at Florida’s Christopher Columbus High School, where live animals were on display, including a tiger, a lemur, two macaws, and a fox. Ignorance of the needs of animals and poor planning is obvious, but it seems that some better policies will come out of it. […]
5/20/2018 • 42 minutes, 23 seconds
Animals Today May 5, 2018: Adventures in cruelty free shopping. Applying science to dog training. Seizures in companion animals. Animals in popular song titles.
This show begins with Lori describing two of her many adventures in cruelty free shopping. Ever increasingly, merchants who ignore vegan buyers do so at their own peril. Lori then continues with a discussion about the environmental impact of plastic trash, with a focus on plastic drinking straws. We continue with a discussion about training with […]
5/6/2018 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today April 28, 2018: Estate planning with pets in mind. Creating an elephant sanctuary in Myanmar. Close encounter with javelinas.
On this show Lori welcomed Frances Carlisle, a New York based attorney who specializes in estate planning. Frances is a nationally known expert in advising clients how to make sure their dogs, cats and other nonhuman family members are taken care of when the guardians are no longer around. Too many of us do not […]
5/1/2018 • 42 minutes, 47 seconds
Animals Today April 21, 2018. Known and hidden risks of dog parks. Nineteen US states now say feral cats are an “invasive species.” How dog people differ from cat people. Cesar Chavez was an animal advocate.
First, Lori welcomes Los Angeles based attorney Ken Phillips, who specializes in legal issues related to dogs. Ken is a nationally renowned authority who has made many media appearances. Dog parks can be wonderful places, but the risks and hazards to people and dogs in and around the parks are real. Ken shared his decades […]
4/23/2018 • 41 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today April 14, 2018. The connection between dog breeding and dog euthanasia. Educating the public about animal fighting. Preventing dog bites.
This week’s show is all about dogs! It begins with Lori speaking to Elizabeth Oreck, National Manager of Puppy Mill Initiatives for Best Friends Animal Society about the connection between intentional dog breeding, overpopulation and euthanasia of homeless dogs. For years, Lori has been explaining how dog breeders contribute to shelter crowding and consequently to […]
4/17/2018 • 40 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 31, 2018: Please don’t buy a wolfdog. The groundbreaking Food for Thought program. Texas Beef Council employing questionable promotional practices.
This show begins with Lori and Peter discussing some nifty things you can do around your home to help animals such hummingbirds and other birds. Then Darlene Kobobel, President of the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center returns to discuss the many problems related to wolf-dog hybrids, properly called wolfdogs. You will want to think twice before buying […]
4/1/2018 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 24, 2018: The Canadian seal hunt goes on. Cownose ray killing contests. Helping children cope with pet loss. The origins of Earth Day. Children’s book reviews.
We begin with Diana Marmorstein, PhD., of Harpseals.org. Despite worldwide pressure, the yearly brutal killing of baby seals in Canada continues and will resume soon this year. Harpseals.org utilizes mass media and grassroots activism to raise awareness about the continued killing of the seals in Canada.We discuss things you can do to send a message […]
3/26/2018 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 17, 2018. Puppy dies in overhead bin of United flight. Remembering Snickers, who perished after a 2011 Delta flight. Appreciating snakes. More animals in song titles. What’s wrong with plastic straws?
We begin with Peter and former Los Angles Animal Cruelty Prosecutor, Bob Ferber, talking about the recent death of a small dog who perished after forced into the overhead bin of a United airplane. Bob cautions that we need to wait for more facts to come out, but it looks pretty bad for the involved […]
3/19/2018 • 43 minutes, 15 seconds
Animals Today March 10, 2018: The California Cruelty Free Cosmetics Act, and other hot news stories. Opponents of African trophy hunting protest in front of apartment of Eric Trump. Snakebites and dogs. Learn about butterflies.
We begin with Peter and Lori sharing some of the most important recent animal news stories, including the introduction of the California Cruelty Free Cosmetics Act, drug users are abusing animals to obtain their medications, wild animals are going to be banned in UK traveling circuses, and the success of wildlife bridges and underpasses in […]
3/11/2018 • 41 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 3, 2018: Overweight dogs and cats. Microchip your pets. The first elephants in America. International Society for Animal Rights.
We begin with Lori’s interview with Dr. Douglas Kunz, discussing the problem of obesity being overweight in dogs and cats. It’s very common. Kunz is Medical Director, VCA Desert Animal Hospital in Palm Springs, California. Then, Lori reminds us how important it is that all animals in the family are microchipped, and how a chip […]
3/4/2018 • 39 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 24, 2018. Illinois law elevates pets’ legal status in divorce actions. International Polar Bear Day! New airline policies on flying with service animals and emotional support animals. Animals in popular song titles.
We begin with Attorney Mark Momjian who describes an important new statute in Illinois that affects animals in the context of divorce and separation. It allows trial courts to find that if a companion animal is acquired during the marriage, the court has the power to decide not only the ownership of the animal, but […]
2/23/2018 • 43 minutes, 13 seconds
Animals Today February 17, 2018. Safe choices for dog treats and toys. Oral health for dogs. Rescued pit bulls are serving as detection dogs. The 10 most lethal animal venoms and poisons.
This show begins with Lori speaking with Veterinarian Douglas Kunz about choosing dog treats and toys carefully, to help your pets avoid dangerous ingestions, dental injuries and other hazards. Dr. Kunz is Medical Director of Desert VCA Animal Hospital in Palm Springs, California. Lori continues reviewing oral health concerns in dogs, in recognition of National […]
2/11/2018 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today February 10, 2018: Canine influenza. Plastic straws and the oceans. Swim with dolphin programs losing popularity. Rabbit welfare and pet rabbits.
Peter first welcomes Dr. Robert Reed, who discusses many key points about canine influenza, or dog flu. This condition is not seasonal, and often causes local outbreaks. And, people can carry the virus! Reed also tells us which dogs should receive the vaccine. Reed is Medical Director, VCA Rancho Mirage Animal Hospital. Then Peter welcomes […]
2/10/2018 • 42 minutes, 49 seconds
Animals Today January 27, 2018. The strongest ten animal bites. February is pet dental health month. The Nonhuman Rights Project seeks to secure more legal rights for animals. Tracking animal abusers with statewide registries.
This show begins with Lori counting down the bite power of the ten strongest nonhuman biters, with many facts about the included animals. Featured are lions, grizzly bears, gorillas, and crocodiles. Lori continues with solid advice about one of the more neglected aspects of pet care, oral hygiene. Keeping up with brushing of your dog’s […]
1/31/2018 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today January 20, 2018. The ten worst zoos for elephants. Updating California’s Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act. Top bird watching sites worldwide.
The show begins with Lori’s discussion with Toni Frohoff, PhD., Elephant Campaign Director at In Defense of Animals. Each year, IDA publishes its list of the worst North American zoos for elephants, and sadly, this year’s list demonstrates that the horrendous conditions for elephants in so many zoos continues. In 2017, there was indeed some […]
1/22/2018 • 41 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today January 13, 2018. Our national emblem, the bald eagle. DDT, eagles, mosquitos, malaria, and Zika. Canned hunting of specially bred species with unusual features.
We begin our tribute to the majestic bale eagle with the history of its becoming part of our national emblem. The bald eagle, very prevalent as North America was colonized by Europeans, was later forced nearly to extinction, but recovered due to legislation (The Bald Eagle Protection Act) and the banning of DDT, enforcement of […]
1/14/2018 • 42 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today January 6, 2018. Ideas to help dogs and cats for the New Year. Aiding wild animals near the home. The continued growth of the plant-based diet. Reviewing Earthlings. Risks from rabies.
We begin sharing some ideas you and your children can try to help needy dogs and cats in your community. Maybe one or more of these suggestions will inspire you for the New Year. Then we discuss things you can do around your home to help the wild animals and critters who live nearby. We […]
1/7/2018 • 41 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 9, 2017. Legal analysis of the shooting death of an innocent woman by a hunter. Understanding the mind of the cow. Exploring Nat Geo’s Encounter Ocean Odyssey. Pets and stereos: Can we all get along? Marin County’s humane approach to managing wildlife / livestock conflict.
The show begins with Lori speaking with Animal Legal Defense Fund Senior Staff Attorney, Diane Balkin, about the recent shooting of Rosmarie Billquist, who was killed by a hunter while walking her dogs in a field behind her home. The hunter, Thomas Jadlowski, shot at what he believed to be a deer with a high […]
12/10/2017 • 41 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 3, 2017. Reining in Animal Services. Chris Delforce’s upcoming film, Dominion. Legal status of pets continues to expand. It’s International Cheetah Day! Photographing fascinating reef creatures.
We begin with Camilla Fox, Founder and President of Project Coyote, who discusses lawsuits against the government agency, Wildlife Services, which alleges the agency is not using the best available science in deciding whether and how to kill millions of animals around the US each year at taxpayers’ expense. Fox claims Wildlife Services is nothing […]
12/4/2017 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today November 25, 2017: Big game trophy decision: What will the Trump administration do about this explosive issue? Holiday safety for pets. Most popular dog and cat names of the year.
We begin with Judy Mancuso, President and Founder of SCIL (Social Compassion in Legislation), who recounts how she learned about the Interior Secretary’s decision to permit African elephant trophies back into the US, and President Trump’s placing of a hold on that decision. She sprung into action, organizing a rally in LA and taking steps […]
11/28/2017 • 41 minutes, 25 seconds
Animals Today November 18, 2017: Sea Shepherd Conservation Society update. What happened to Ringling Bros’ tigers? Ronnie Lee discusses his biography, The Animals’ Freedom Fighter.
We begin with Paul Watson, Founder, President and Executive Director of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. The Japanese government has adopted aggressive means to thwart the Society’s pacific fleet from interfering with their whaling activities. Watson says he will have to find a new approach, and is hopeful that other governments will act to end Japan’s illegal […]
11/18/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today November 4, 2017: Thanksgiving eats for pets: what’s ok? Turkey traditions and the Presidency. Heartworm update. Favorite products of 2017, part 3.
The show begins with Lori sharing her research on which Thanksgiving foods can be shared with pets, including suggested modifications of traditional dishes and ingredients to avoid. Then, Peter joins in as they discuss the absurd tradition of the Presidential turkey pardon. The show continues with Veterinarian Dr. Robert Reed, giving us the latest on […]
11/4/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 28, 2017: California makes a strong move against puppy mills. Overweight dogs and cats. Protecting Manatees. Favorite products of 2017, part 2.
Our first guest Judie Mancuso, founder and president of Social Compassion in Legislation (SCIL). Thanks to her tireless efforts, Governor Jerry Brown has just signed into law a bill that will curtail the flow of puppy mill dogs into the state. Pet stores that want to sell dogs, cats and rabbits will have to get […]
10/29/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 21, 2017: Who should be permitted to have Emotional Support Animals? Is it time for cannabinoids for pets? Long sentence for police dog killer. Top pet products 2017 part 1.
The show begins with Dr. Jeffrey Younggren, Clinical and Forensic Psychologist at University of Missouri. Lori and Jeffrey discuss the current legal and regulatory status of service animals (usually dogs) and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs). There is a lot of misinformation and confusion regarding where the animals are allowed to go. Dr. Younggren also provides his […]
10/22/2017 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 7, 2017: Sea Shepherd reacts to Japan’s aggressive tactics. The origins of Animal Law. Protect the Endangered Species Act. Oh, how we love our dogs. Sloths.
We begin with Paul Watson, Founder President and Executive Director of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. The Japanese government has adopted aggressive means to thwart the Society’s pacific fleet from interfering with their whaling activities. Watson says he will have to find a new approach, and is hopeful that other governments will act to end Japan’s […]
10/8/2017 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 23, 2017: Hurricane and flood updates from Florida and Texas. Shark photography and conservation. Coyotes.
We begin the show with Laura Bevan, Southern Regional Director for the Humane Society of the United States, who provides a firsthand account of the effects of Irma and Harvey and how animal welfare groups, government agencies and individuals are working to protect and rescue animals. Florida is especially well-prepared, with an advanced plan to […]
9/25/2017 • 39 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 16, 2017: All about rabbits. Divorce and companion animals. Settlement reached in the “monkey selfie” lawsuit.
International Rabbit Day is fast approaching, so Lori begins with a two-part interview with Dr. Anne Martin, executive Director, House Rabbit Society. They discuss rabbits as pets and other welfare issues including cosmetic testing on rabbits and rabbit overpopulation. There’s tons of good info here! Then, Philadelphia based family law attorney Mark Momjian joins Lori […]
9/17/2017 • 42 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today September 9, 2017: Animal idioms. Ending cownose ray killing contests. Dementia in dogs. Will SeaWorld survive? A rescue and hospice for homeless senior dogs.
We begin with Peter and Lori talking about idioms and expressions having to do with animals. Unfortunately many of them are not very nice, but we offer some happier substitutes. Peter then welcomes back Stu Chaifetz, Animal Cruelty Investigator with SHARK. The SHARK team has released videos from Maryland of cownose ray killing contests, which […]
9/9/2017 • 41 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today September 2, 2017: Preparing for Natural Disasters. American Bar Association supports TNVR programs. So ya wanna bring your emotional support animal to Europe? Can music soothe our pets?
The show begins with Lori’s chat with Jeff Dorson of the Humane Society of Louisiana, first broadcast last fall, about disaster preparedness for pets. Make sure you have a plan! Plus, we recognize National Dog Day with surprising facts about how much we love our canine companions. Peter then welcome Best Friends Animal Society attorney, Richard […]
9/4/2017 • 43 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today August 26, 2017: World Mosquito Day. Please don’t visit the dolphin park in Arizona! Another SHARK victory: Senator Inhofe’s canned pigeon shooting events have ceased. Best pet-friendly cities.
August 20th was World Mosquito Day, which recognizes the discovery of the connection between mosquitos and Malaria. Lori reviews some of this fascinating history, including the very controversial story about DDT. Will there be any role for DDT in the US if disease from the Zika virus becomes more widespread? Peter then announces efforts to dissuade […]
8/26/2017 • 42 minutes, 47 seconds
Animals Today August 19, 2017. SuperZoo 2017, Part 1. Coverage from Las Vegas. Cognitive dysfunction in dogs. Genetic testing for breed and disease.
Peter is back from Las Vegas, where he covered this year’s SuperZoo, the huge pet products trade show. He shares his impressions with Lori, admitting it’s just too much to do in one day. In upcoming shows, we will be reviewing our favorite products, many of which are being tested by our own dogs and […]
8/21/2017 • 43 minutes, 16 seconds
Animals Today Aug 12 2017. Deceptive and fraudulent labeling of faux fur: learn how to ensure the products you buy are cruelty free. Bad flu affecting dogs.
Lori’s first guest for the show is Pierre Grzybowski, policy enforcement Manager for the Humane Society of the United State’s Fur-Free Campaign. Pierre explains how garments, shoes and handbags marked and advertised as being composed of synthetic materials may actually have animal fur or hair. The HSUS is a strong voice against this practice and […]
8/13/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today August 5, 2017: Try a plant-based diet! Heartworm update. Animal advocates are now in Connecticut courts, an important milestone. Rescuing animals and kids from hot cars: new laws apply in California
Have you thought about trying a plant-based diet? Well, if you have not yet adopted this healthful and compassionate practice, please listen to Lori’s persuasive argument for trying it now. The show continues with Veterinarian Dr. Robert Reed, giving us the latest on prevention and treatment of heartworm disease. Then, legal expert Bob Ferber joins [ …]
8/5/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today July 23, 2017. Utah ag-gag law ruled unconstitutional. Coral reefs. Is the Pet Effect real? Arachnids, serpents and us.
The show begins with legal expert Bob Ferber reviewing the recent overturning of Utah’s so-called ag-gag law. The court found the law interfered with free speech rights and Ferber explains the nuances and the significance of the ruling. Expect to see more similar legal battles in other states. Lori and Peter continue with a fun […]
7/24/2017 • 43 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today July 1, 2017 Blowing the whistle on wildlife abuses. Surviving another summer in the desert. Independence Day tips for easing stress in pets.
The show begins with Meera Gajjar, an attorney with the Wildlife Whistleblower Program of the National Whistleblower Center. Legal action to counter illegal wildlife trafficking continues to be weak, despite strong laws that are in place. With the Wildlife Whistleblower Program, Gajjar and colleagues expect to change that by providing a clearinghouse of information and […]
7/3/2017 • 42 minutes, 49 seconds
Animals Today June 24, 2017: It’s American Eagle Day and we celebrate eagles. Update on sulfoxaflor, bees and pollinators. Protecting elephants with technology. Bats and their viruses. Robot falcons and more animal news.
In honor of American Eagle Day we begin with a discussion about how the bald eagle became part of the Great Seal of the United States, and how its extinction was averted. Bald eagle populations are now strong. Then, Lori continues with more fascinating facts about both bald and golden eagles. Plus, China cracks down […]
6/26/2017 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
Animals Today – June 10, 2017. Is horse urine in your pills? Emotional Support dog bites airline passenger. Delaware rejects breed specific legislation. Seizures in companion animals.
The first guest of this show is Susan Wagner, President of Equine Advocates. The urine of pregnant mares is used to produce estrogen and hormone-replacement drugs such as Premarin, PremPro and PremPhase – and now DUAVEE, a “PremPro-Lite” which contains Premarin. Susan explained the history of these drugs, how harmful they are to the people who […]
6/11/2017 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today June 3, 2017: Dogs, hot cars and the law. Another twisted twist on game hunting. Adventure Cats with author Laura J. Moss. Know the risks of pesticides to your furry family members.
Lori’s first guest is Animals Today legal analyst, Bob Ferber, who discusses the recent Tennessee law, which protects good Samaritans from legal retaliation when they break into hot cars to rescue imperiled animals Then, Joe Meile with Committee to Abolish Sport Hunting returned to explain yet another twisted variety of captive or canned hunting. Unusual forms of […]
6/3/2017 • 42 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today May 13, 2017: What makes a great animal sanctuary? Micro chipping and estate planning. Dog bite liability. Disaster planning after Katrina.
Peter begins by welcoming Bobbi Brink, from Lions, Tigers and Bears, a sanctuary for wild animals in Southern California. Brink says there is no excuse for the recent killing of three lions, three tigers and five bears by the owners of a Colorado sanctuary, and goes on to explain what’s involved in operating a top […]
5/14/2017 • 43 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today April 29, 2017. Adopting baby turtles confiscated after LA bust. World Turtle Day. Critically endangered animals. Dog cloning. Educating about animals and nature. Vaccines for cats: what’s needed?
The show begins with Peter welcoming Susan Tellem, Co-founder of American Tortoise Rescue. A recent law enforcement investigation in Los Angeles netted 70 baby turtles being illegally offered for sale, and Susan’s organization took them all in. Plus, World Turtle Day is coming up; it’s celebrated in many locations around the globe. Then, Lori and […]
5/1/2017 • 42 minutes, 49 seconds
Animals Today April 22, 2017. Animal assisted therapy: fact and fiction. Human hormone therapy poses risks to pets. It’s kitten season again!
Lori first welcomes Professor Hal Herzog, one of the world’s most influential Anthrozoologists. In a recent Psychology Today article, Herzog criticized much of the research about the value of using animals in the treatment of emotional, mental and physical diseases. His recent book is titled, Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat – […]
4/25/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today April 15, 2017: Appreciating Beavers. Do cats need more respect? History and value of micro chipping. Estate planning. Legal news. Would you share a spoon with your dog?
Lori begins by recognizing International Beaver Day! This large mammalian herbivore is the national animal of Canada. Plus, it’s Respect Your Cat Day. No kidding. The show continues with Lori talking about micro chipping for cats and dogs, including a happy reunion of a dog and guardian due to the chip. Then Lori and Peter […]
4/15/2017 • 43 minutes, 15 seconds
Animals Today April 8, 2017: Wolfdogs. Early days of the Audubon Society. Scorpions. Cesar Chavez, animal advocate.
This show begins with Lori and Peter discussing some nifty things you can do around your home to help animals such hummingbirds and other birds. Then Darlene Kobobel, President of the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center returns to discuss the many problems related to wolf-dog hybrids, properly called wolfdogs. You will want to think twice before buying […]
4/8/2017 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today March 25, 2017: USDA removes critical animal welfare information from website. Save The Frogs Day will soon be here. A novel program to rehabilitate animal abusers. Fascinating bats.
Suddenly and without prior notice, the USDA just took down a vast amount of critical information from its webpages concerning the welfare of animals. Lori asks John Goodwin, Senior Director of the Humane Society of the United States’ Campaign Against Puppy Mills, to review this event and its consequences. Goodwin calls it an assault on animals, […]
3/26/2017 • 43 minutes, 16 seconds
Animals Today March 11, 2017. Obesity in dogs and cats is getting more common. Neat products reviewed. Toxicities of rodenticides. Manatees! Dolphins!
Is your dog or cat overweight or obese? This problem has become all too common in the US. Lori is joined by Dr. Douglas Kunz who explains. Then, Lori and Peter talk about their kittie, Elton, who they thought might be overweight but, as it turns out, it not. The segment continues with our reviews […]
3/12/2017 • 41 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today March 18, 2017: Choosing dog toys and treats wisely. Driving the Southwest US with dogs. Genetic testing on dogs, with our dogs’ results.
This show begins with Dr. Douglas Kunz, Medical Director of VCA Desert Animal Hospital who provides sage advice on choosing safe toys and treats for dogs. Doug advises not to use hard chew toys, which can fracture teeth. Doug also doesn’t like pig’s ears and bully sticks because they may harbor E coli bacteria. Doug […]
3/8/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today March 4, 2017: Special update: USDA removes animal welfare information from website
Suddenly and without prior notice, the USDA just took down a vast amount of critical information from its webpages concerning the welfare of animals. Lori asks John Goodwin, Senior Director of the Humane Society of the United States’ Campaign Against Puppy Mills, to review this event and its consequences. Goodwin calls it an assault on […]
3/5/2017 • 12 minutes
Animals Today February 25, 2017. What are the best ways to train dogs? Dental hygiene tips for dogs. Relief for itchy dogs. The Iditarod sled dog race is animal exploitation.
This show features topics about dogs and begins with a discussion about training with Arizona State University animal behavior psychologist Clive Wynne. Dr. Wynne is concerned that there is growing confusion on how to best train dogs. Clive feels this is in large part due to misunderstandings about the concept of dominance, as well as […]
2/27/2017 • 40 minutes, 24 seconds
Animals Today February 11, 2017. Alaska elevates legal status of companion animals. Would you clone your pet? Ecotourism may harm animals. Use care with pesticides when dogs and cats are around.
We begin with news from Alaska with legal expert Bob Ferber, who tells us about a newly enacted law there that tells judges to take into consideration the best interest of companion animals in cases such as divorce. Alaska is the first state to pass such a law, and it will be very interesting to observe […]
2/11/2017 • 43 minutes, 13 seconds
Animals Today February 4, 2017: Exposing taxpayer funded vivisection. Diabetes in cats. The pets of the Presidents.
We begin with a revealing discussion with Anthony Bellotti, who leads White Coat Waste, which is working to determine how our tax dollars are used in research involving dogs and other animals. Mr. Bellotti wants to radically revamp the US system of animal experimentation, where most of the research is funded by tax dollars. White […]
2/5/2017 • 39 minutes, 41 seconds
Animals Today January 28, 2017. Ringling Bros. to close! Cannabis products for pets. Dogs protecting the President. Cat scratch disease.
Lori begins the show by celebrating the wonderful news that Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus will close May 2017. A sustained effort from animal advocates and animal welfare organizations, updated laws, and changing times all contributed to its demise. Lori continues with a fascinating talk about the use of medical cannabis for animals […]
1/29/2017 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today January 14, 2017. Adopt a rescue bird month. Helping injured birds. Protecting nesting petrels on Hawaii. Elephant Sanctuary Brazil. Synthetic dog models for training. A sanctuary for senior cats.
The show begins with our rescue of an injured hawk, and many practical tips on how to aid birds who may be in need of assistance. The first key is to learn which birds need to be left alone. Then, to commemorate Adopt a Rescue Bird Month, Peter describes the ideal ways to acquire a […]
1/16/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today January 7, 2017: The Bald Eagle: American icon and conservation success story. Ending captive lion hunting in Africa
Happy New Year! January is a special month for eagles because Save the Eagle Day is January 10th and Bald Eagle Appreciation Days are January 21st and 22nd. We begin with a discussion about how the bald eagle became part of the Great Seal of the United States, and how its extinction was averted. Bald […]
1/8/2017 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today Dec 24, 2016: Most important animal stories of 2016
This show features Lori and Peter’s choices for the most notable and important animal rights and animal welfare stories of the year. After Lori tortures Peter with some holiday animal trivia questions, they get on with the review. This year its not a countdown, but a sampling of events they considered most meaningful for various […]
12/24/2016 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today December 17, 2016: Myths surrounding plant-based diets. How to move toward a plant-based diet. Expert Vet tips for holiday pet safety. Challenges of coping with the loss of pets around the holidays.
The holidays are here, and we have food on our minds! So we thought it would be an ideal time to talk about plant-based, or vegan, diets. In segment one, Lori explains why vegan diets are so healthful, and shoots down a few of the prevalent myths surrounding them. Make a resolution to improve your […]
12/18/2016 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today December 12, 2016: Animals and religion: An in-depth discussion with Frank Hoffman. Keeping companion animals safe during the holidays.
This show features a fascinating discussion about religion and animals with former Pastor Frank Hoffman, founder of All Creatures, www.all-creatures.org. Lori introduces the show by exploring the many contradictions we have in our relationships with animals, such as the hunter who loves his hunting dogs but has no problem blasting ducks out of the sky. […]
12/10/2016 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today December 3, 2016: Myths surrounding plant-based diets. How to move toward a plant-based diet. Expert Vet tips for holiday pet safety. Challenges of coping with the loss of pets around the holidays.
The holidays are here, and we have food on our minds! So we thought it would be an ideal time to talk about plant-based, or vegan, diets. In segment one, Lori explains why vegan diets are so healthful, and shoots down a few of the prevalent myths surrounding them. Make a resolution to improve your […]
12/3/2016 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today – November 19, 2016: Animals and religion: An in-depth discussion with Frank Hoffman. Keeping companion animals safe during the holidays.
This show features a fascinating discussion about religion and animals with former Pastor Frank Hoffman, founder of All Creatures, www.all-creatures.org. Lori introduces the show by exploring the many contradictions we have in our relationships with animals, such as the hunter who loves his hunting dogs but has no problem blasting ducks out of the sky. […]
11/21/2016 • 43 minutes, 18 seconds
Animals Today Election Report: The hunting activities of Donald Trump’s sons.
Originally broadcast 2/13/16. In February, as Republican candidate Donald Trump was on his way to winning the nomination, I learned about the prior hunting activities of his sons and discussed it on the air. Now that their father will soon be President, Donald Jr. and Eric’s history of trophy hunting wild animals in Africa will […]
11/11/2016 • 3 minutes, 1 second
Animals Today Nov 6, 2016: Who should be permitted to have Emotional Support Animals? Swim with dolphin programs losing popularity. Helping youth grieve the loss of pets. Backyard ingestion hazards for dogs and cats.
The show begins with Dr. Jeffrey Younggren, Clinical and Forensic Psychologist at University of Missouri. Lori and Jeffrey discuss the current legal and regulatory status of service animals (usually dogs) and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs). There is a lot of misinformation and confusion regarding where the animals are allowed to go. Dr. Younggren also provides […]
11/6/2016 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 22, 2016: Wild and exotic animals as pets. Zika spraying kills millions of bees. All about back disease in dogs.
The show begins with Lori sharing her recollections about her relationship with a privately owned bobcat, continuing with the problems of private ownership of wild and exotic animals. Then Dr. Eric Mussen joins Lori in a wide-ranging talk about Zika and other mosquito borne diseases, and methods to control mosquitos. Recently, mass deaths of honeybees […]
10/23/2016 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today – October 15, 2016: Planes and birds in conflict: Making the skies safer for us all. Petition to end horse slaughter. Will California protect good Samaritans who break into hot vehicles to rescue animals?
With the release of Ron Howard’s new film, Sully, our interest in the risks posed to planes by wildlife has certainly been rekindled! Lori begins the show with Dr. Richard Dolbeer, who enjoyed a long career studying ways to make the skies safer for planes as well as for the wild animals who live near […]
10/16/2016 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today October 8, 2016: Disaster preparedness for pets. Sloths! Canine heartworm disease. Ending horse slaughter. Appreciating bats.
The show’s first guest is Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana, who speaks with Lori about preparing for disasters, especially hurricanes. Jeff offers many practical tips to keep all our critters safe during these emergencies. Then, Oct 20 is International Sloth Day and Lori shares some fun facts about these arboreal […]
10/8/2016 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 17, 2016: The film, The Champions. What breed is that dog? Looks are often deceiving! Problems abound with breed specific legislation. Iguanas, red pandas, xylitol, and explosive-sniffing dogs.
We begin by featuring the award winning film, The Champions. The first segment features Director and Producer, Darcy Dennett, who has created this beautiful and inspirational movie depicting the journey of some of the more challenging dogs rescued form the Michael Vick fighting operation. Darcy is no newcomer to dogs, having been the series producer for […]
9/19/2016 • 43 minutes, 19 seconds
Animals Today September 10, 2016: Helping Koalas. Expanded legal rights for animals in Oregon. Worst enclosures for cetaceans. Too many stray dogs in Dallas.
This show begins with Lori and Peter chatting about koalas, in recognition of Save the Koala Month. Koala populations are shrinking due to habitat loss, predation by dogs, fires, accidents and disease. Peter also has three new California animal news items. Then, Peter welcomes legal expert Bob Ferber, who discusses the significance of a recent […]
9/10/2016 • 52 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today August 20, 2016: Mosquito alert and the threat of Zika: World Mosquito Day. Recalling Lori’s childhood trip to Africa. America’s newest juvenile hunting celebrity. Mental health risks to those who work in the animal welfare field. Toxoplasmosis in cats and people.
August 20th is World Mosquito Day, which recognizes the discovery of the connection between mosquitos and Malaria. Lori reviews some of this fascinating history, including the very controversial story about DDT. Will there be any role for DDT in the US if disease from the Zika virus becomes more widespread? Lori then continues by recollecting […]
8/22/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today July 30, 2016. Humane animal idioms. Rays slaughtered for sport. Criticizing the functions of contemporary zoos. International Society for Animal Rights.
Inspired by Anthony Weiner’s recent use of the phrase, “beat him like a rented mule,” we discuss a variety of idioms concerning animals, hoping to find interesting, humane alternatives to ones like “killing two birds with one stone.” Then Lori speaks with Mary Finelli founder and President of Fish Feel. Chesapeake Bay cownose rays are […]
7/30/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today July 16, 2016: Spanish Bullfighter killed on live TV. Coral Reef Awareness Week. What a Fish Knows, by Jonathan Balcombe. The first US animal shelter.
Last week, a Spanish Matador was killed by the bull he was tormenting. So, Lori decided to ask her facebook contacts what they thought about this death and bullfighting more generally. A spirited thread resulted and the first segment of the show begins with Lori and Peter discussing the opinions and comments posted. The show continues […]
7/18/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today July 9, 2016. Critiquing Captain Paul Watson’s statements about the shooting of the Cincinnati Zoo’s Gorilla, Harambe. Innocent jaguar killed at Olympic ceremony in Brazil. Respecting and loving cows – and not because they are milk factories. Fake service animals.
With the world still abuzz following the killing of the silverback gorilla, Harambe, at the Cincinnati zoo, many prominent animal advocates have offered their opinions and analysis on the events, and whether the situation could have been avoided or managed differently. Lori and Peter review a few of the assertions made by one of their […]
7/10/2016 • 53 minutes, 51 seconds
Animals Today June 25, 2016: Will the film, Finding Dory, harm fishes and reefs? US government is killing cormorants. Veganism’s rise in Israel. Developing whale sanctuaries.
This week’s show begins with Peter interviewing attorney Nicholas Whipps, from the Center for Biological Diversity. Nicholas voices the widespread concern that the blue tang will become the next sought after species for home aquariums, similar to what happened to the clownfish depicted in Finding Nemo. The methods used to harvest blue tangs are devastating […]
6/28/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today June 11, 2016: Who’s to blame for the death of Harambe? California desert bighorn sheep need better protection. New animal cruelty legal unit in San Bernardino.
This week’s show begins with Lori offering her views on the killing of the 450 pound Silverback Gorilla Harambe, who was captive in the Cincinnati Zoo. Authorities shot him to protect a boy who made his way into the gorilla exhibit. But who really bears responsibility for the death of this innocent creature? Legal analyst […]
6/12/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today May 21, 2016: Moving away from animal testing in drug development. Trained rats detecting TB. All about heartworm disease. What we do for our cats! Wildlife now thrives in Chernobyl radiation zone.
We begin with attorney Elizabeth Baker, Senior Science Policy Specialist at Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, PCRM, who joins Peter to discuss the problems and limitations of using nonhuman animals in testing for drugs being developed for use in humans. PCRM is working on many fronts to move the government, industry, and academia toward more […]
5/22/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today May 7, 2016: Progress and challenges at SeaWorld. No, a vegetarian diet will not hurt you. Stiff penalty given for killing a police dog. Animals thriving after Chernobyl.
The show begins with Dr. Toni Frohoff from In Defense of Animals speaking with Lori about ongoing issues at SeaWorld. The captive whale breeding program will be halted but what will become of those individuals still in captivity who could live decades longer? And will other animals be recruited to provide “entertainment?” The show continues with […]
5/10/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today – April 23, 2016: Zookeeper killed by Malayan tiger: This should never happen. Giant rats at work detecting land mines. All you need to know about kitten season.
The show begins with Lori’s impassioned discussion about the fatal mauling of zookeeper Stacey Konwiser at the Palm Beach Zoo, by a Malayan tiger. This tiger was part of a breeding program purported to help prevent the extinction of the species, and the woman who tragically perished was known as a tiger whisperer. Lori explains […]
4/26/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today April 9, 2016: The insanity of the Canadian seal hunt. Can a drug extend dogs’ lives? Amazing penguin adventure. Is your neighbor’s dog soiling your lawn? Mass killings of native snakes are not needed. Illegal Ivory trade through Hawaii.
We begin with a discussion with Dr. Diana Marmorstein, CEO of Harpseals.org. Another season of the Canadian seal hunt is upon us, with the cruel and unnecessary killing huge numbers of juvenile seals. This practice needs to be ended for good. We continue with surveys about cute animals and SeaWorld, a story about prolonging dogs’ […]
4/11/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today April 2, 2016: Stealing Elephants from Africa. Avoiding brain disease with diet. Pet product industry update. Fake service animals under scrutiny.
This show begins with the unbelievable news that 18 elephants have been ripped from their homes and families in Swaziland and flown to a life of captivity at three US zoos. Toni Frohoff, PhD. from In Defense of Animals (IDA), explains the tragic situation, how it can possibly happen in 2016 and what we all […]
4/2/2016 • 53 minutes, 51 seconds
Animals Today – March 26, 2016: Mink liberator receives long prison sentence. Origins of the Audubon Society. Suing the Cricket Hollow Zoo. Too many dog and cat photos? Cesar Chavez, animal advocate.
The show begins with guest Chris DeRose, Founder of Last Chance for Animals who offers his opinions on breaking the law in order to help animals. Chris and Lori discuss the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act and the recent sentencing of Kevin Johnson, who released 2000 minks from a farm and was charged under that law. DeRose […]
3/28/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today – March 19, 2016: Ending the killing from the illegal animal trade. Debating feral cat management. From cattle ranch to vegan farm animal sanctuary.
This episode begins with a discussion about the international trade in illegal wildlife and wildlife products featuring the President and CEO of International Fund for Animal Welfare, Azzedine Downes. Worldwide crime syndicates are reaping huge profits through this illegal and dangerous commerce, and IFAW is leading the way to end the killing of elephants, rhinos, […]
3/20/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today March 12, 2016: SeaWorld admits spying on PETA. Aardvark week. PawPAC. More on disease prevention through diet. What mountain lions eat. Suing for the elephant, Lucky.
We begin with Peter and legal expert Bob Ferber discussing the admission by SeaWorld that its employee had infiltrated PETA to gather intelligence. Is it legal and does PETA have any recourse? Then, how much do you know about aardvarks? We are celebrating National Aardvark Week. Next on with Lori is Eric Mills, board member […]
3/12/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today: March 5, 2016: Exposing and opposing slaughter of horses in the US. International Polar Bear Day. Scalia the hunter. Plant based eating for kids.
This show begins with Attorney Bruce Wagman, who represents Front Range Equine Rescue in legal efforts to oppose horse slaughter for consumption. He has been working on horse slaughter litigation for almost 10 years, and tragic fate of many horses in the US is hidden from public view. Front Range Equine Rescue is working had […]
3/5/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today – February 20, 2016: Protecting pangolins. Animal abuse at Riverside County fair. Shark fin ban legal battles. Eating to prevent disease. Helping the animals of the homeless people.
This show begins with Lori recognizing the Fifth Annual World Pangolin Day by broadcasting her 2015 interview with Jeffrey Flocken of International Fund for Animal Welfare. The cute but vulnerable pangolin holds the unfortunate distinction of being the most heavily trafficked wild mammal in the world. Next up, Lori describes the ongoing exploitation of animals […]
2/24/2016 • 53 minutes, 41 seconds
Animals Today February 13, 2016: What’s causing whale strandings in the North Sea? Trump’s sons are hunters. Dental hygiene for dogs. So you’ve found some cats: now what? Bad flu affecting dogs.
This show begins with Mark Duchamp, President of Save the Eagles International and President, World Council for Nature. Mark makes a strong case that infrasonic noise emitted from offshore wind turbines, as well as the noise associated with their assembly, are causing sperm whales to become stranded on beaches in the North Sea. Lori then […]
2/14/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today – January 30, 2016: Wolf-dog hybrids. The dollar value of dogs. Dog bites and the law. More on salamanders.
Dog lovers, this episode is for you! We begin by discussing some nifty things you can do around your home to help animals such hummingbirds and other birds. Then Darlene Kobobel, President of the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center returns to discuss the many problems related to wolf-dog hybrids, properly called wolfdogs. You will want […]
1/30/2016 • 53 minutes, 48 seconds
Animals Today January 23, 2016: Kangaroo product ban in California. Ringling Bros. elephants to retire early. Wolves in conflict with ranchers. Helping children cope with the loss of pets. Highly contagious strain of flu affecting dogs.
Animals Today January 23, 2016: Kangaroo product ban in California. Ringling Bros. elephants to retire early. Wolves in conflict with ranchers. Helping children cope with the loss of pets. Highly contagious strain of flu affecting dogs. This show begins with Peter and Lori discussing a collection of new animal topics, including the battle to preserve […]
1/25/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today – January 16, 2016: Child killed by pit bull. Why laws aimed at certain breeds may not be the answer. Microchip your animals. Estate planning for your companion animals. Protecting manatees. Ranking states for animal cruelty laws.
This show begins with legal expert Bob Ferber, who discusses the limitations of breed specific legislation as a tool to protect people from dog bites. Recently, a four year old Detroit boy was killed in a pit bull attack. Breed specific legislation is always a controversial topic! Then, Lori reminds us how important it is […]
1/18/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today January 9, 2016: Protecting the seas with Sea Shepherd’s Captain Paul Watson. Animal protection law survey. The book, Larry Saves the Prairie.
This show begins with an in depth discussion with Paul Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. This amazing organization continues to grow and leads efforts around the world to protect the seas and its inhabitants. Lori and Paul discuss the smallest cetacean, the vaquita, legal and direct action to protect whales, and a host […]
1/11/2016 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today December 26, 2015: Top Animal Stories of 2015. Elephant trivia. Avoiding animal hazards during the holidays.
This show features Lori and Peter’s top eight picks of the most important animal welfare and animal rights stories of 2015. And even though the killing of Africa’s iconic lion, Cecil was very important, we deemed a different one to be the biggest event of the year. What would be on your list? Then, we […]
12/26/2015 • 52 minutes, 56 seconds
Animals Today December 19, 2015. Holiday safety tips. Animal news. Would you rescue a tortoise? Take the animal holiday challenge!
This show begins with Dr Robert Reed, DVM, who tells us everything we need to know about keeping dogs and cats safe during the holidays. We return from the break with hot animal news items from around the world, including stories about military dogs and the Idaho Ag-Gag law (a federal court overturned this law […]
12/19/2015 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today December 12, 2015: NIH retires Chimps. Vertebral disc disease in dogs. How well do dogs really smell? Helping animals without going crazy. California hotel supports military dogs.
First on the show is Dr. John Pippin, Director of Academic affairs, Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, PCRM. We discuss the news that the NIH is at long last going to retire its chimpanzees warehoused for medical research. Sadly, this day could have occurred decades ago. Stephen Hanson, DVM, then joins Lori to discuss veterinary […]
12/14/2015 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Helping Animals Without Going Crazy: Strategies for Effective, Joyful Advocacy
During this fast moving half-day seminar, attendees will learn how to be more effective and happy in their work on behalf of animals. Animal rescuers, animal welfare organizations, shelter workers and anyone who cares about animals will learn practical information, tips and strategies to help them achieve better outcomes for animals while adding more enjoyment […]
12/3/2015 • 5 minutes, 58 seconds
Animals Today November 21, 2015: Ag-gag laws under scrutiny. Seizures in companion animals. Cuddling with scorpions. The bats of Catalina Island.
This show begins with Peter and Animals Today legal expert, Bob Ferber, discussing Ag-gag laws. These laws are anti-whistleblower laws designed to shield factory farms from the inquisitive lenses of undercover videographers demonstrating animal cruelty. The Idaho law was just struck down as unconstitutional, but according to Ferber, don’t expect these laws in other states […]
11/28/2015 • 53 minutes, 20 seconds
Animals Today November 14, 2015: Captive breeding and canned hunting of Lions: The film, Blood Lions. Popular dog names. Horses helping veterans.
On this show we continue our examination of the treatment of lions in Africa. Pippa Hankinson, Producer of the film, Blood Lions, joins Peter for an extended discussion covering the various ways lions are bred, exploited, and ultimately killed for sport. Listen to learn the tragic details and what you can do to help end […]
11/17/2015 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today November 7, 2015: Confusion in dog training. Would you clone your dog? Visual identification of dog breeds in shelters is often incorrect. Use care with pesticides when dogs and cats are around.
This show is for dog lovers! We begin with a discussion about dog training with Arizona State University animal behavior psychologist Clive Wynne. Dr. Wynne is concerned that there is growing confusion on how to best train dogs. Clive feels this is in large part due to misunderstandings about the concept of dominance, as well […]
11/9/2015 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today – October 31, 2015: Bear hunting resumes in Florida. Animal abuser registries. Wondrous bats. Pot for pets? October is adopt a shelter dog month.
This show is packed with good stuff from the animal advocacy universe. It begins with a description of the misguided resumption of the Florida bear hunt, which just resumed a decades-long prohibition. Bear activist Tom Mooney describes the misguided thinking, if not outright corruption, that led to hundreds of permits being issued around the state, […]
11/1/2015 • 53 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today October 17, 2015. California leads US by restricting use of antibiotics in agriculture. Dogs helping Veterans. Ecotourism may harm animals. Relocating, not killing, scary little creatures.
Governor Jerry Brown has just signed a bill into law that makes California the country’s leader in reducing the routine, irresponsible and harmful use of antibiotics in animal agriculture. More antibiotics are used in agriculture than for human disease, and their use causes the creation of antibiotic resistant bacteria that harm and kill people. Jonathan […]
10/17/2015 • 53 minutes, 49 seconds
Animals Today October 10, 2015. Monkey takes selfie and monkey eats mail. Disaster planning for animals. Wind energy regulation. Lucy’s law in California
This show begins with Peter, Lori and legal expert Bob Ferber talking about two monkey cases in the news, the monkey selfie incident, and the mail-eating escaped pet monkey. Then Lori talks about disaster planning for our companion animals. Eric Glitzenstein, representing American Bird Conservancy, then speaks with Peter about an important legal victory they just […]
10/11/2015 • 52 minutes, 50 seconds
Animals Today October 3, 2015: Dogs in court. Sensible rabies advice. Bees win victory but still are under pressure. Another salamander threat, Herbivore Festival, and baby elephant rescue.
This show begins with Lori welcoming Ellen O’Neill-Stephens, founder of Courthouse Dogs Foundation. A growing number of court proceedings now have specially trained dogs present to provide emotional support to the human participants. Lori and Ellen discuss where the dogs come from, how they are used in court, and how they may help promote justice. […]
