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FEATURES
The End of the Chain?
Dogs chained around the clock often lead lonely, unhealthy lives—and can pose a threat to public safety. But chaining is an entrenched practice that’s not disappearing overnight. Learn how the problem is being addressed around the country, and what you can do to help your community pass more progressive laws.
The Quest for Bequests
Asking donors to consider including your organization in their wills doesn’t have to be awkward; many seniors are eager to leave a legacy. But broaching a subject that inherently involves the contemplation of mortality must be done with tact and professionalism.
DEPARTMENTS
Letterbox
Scoop
Coffee Break
In your space, you told us about the public’s most common misconceptions about your organization, and how you’d like to correct them.
Creature Feature
Consider the plight of potbellied pigs: Once a trendy novelty pet for the rich and famous, they now can be had for a song at local flea markets. And since they’re sometimes sold small to people unprepared for the full-grown version, they might end up in your shelter.
The “101” Department
Looking for ways to generate media coverage of animal issues without breaking the bank? From the costumed pet contest on Halloween to the dogs walking in the Chinese New Year parade, shelters and rescue organizations can use seasonal events to create news hooks the media will find irresistible.
Q & A
Jill Lancon, director of Marion County Animal Services in Florida, describes the rescue of 126 horses—full size and miniature—in an unusual hoarding case.
Shelter Medicine
The explosion of new medical information and treatment options has created ethical quandaries for shelters: How much care is enough? What can the shelter afford to spend? Is the most expensive option necessarily the best? Lila Miller offers her thoughts on making treatment decisions.
Volunteer Management
In this new department, two experienced volunteer managers make the case that, during tough economic times, a well-managed team of shelter volunteers is more important than ever.
Off Leash
An old photograph captures a moment in an animal shelter’s history.
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