Humane Animal Control Manual

Animal control officer holding a cat in front of some kennels at a municipal shelter

In the Humane Animal Control manual, you will find a road map for progressive, community-based animal care and control. Best Friends Animal Society has assembled a collection of descriptions of our country’s most successful lifesaving programs, written by those who helped make them possible. Whether you’re a municipal employee new to this field or a seasoned veteran, we hope that this publication will empower you and your agency to expand the level of service you bring to the people and animals in your community.

Pet Stores That Offer Dog Adoptions

Smiling person who adopted a small black dog wearing a yellow bandana

As awareness of the connection between puppy mills and puppies sold for profit continues to grow, pet stores across the country are changing the way they do business. Instead of selling puppies who come from inhumane puppy mills and supporting their cruel breeding practices, many stores are now partnering with local shelters and rescue groups to offer homeless pets for adoption. By offering services, such as grooming and doggy daycare, and selling pet-related products, stores that have switched to this more humane model continue to be profitable.

How to Lobby for Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) for Cats

black cat, who is part of an outdoor cat colony, standing among plants

Want to lobby for trap-neuter-vaccinate-return (TNVR) for cats — also known as trap-neuter-release (TNR)? It's important to do some research about your local community cat situation, elected officials, and current ordinances prior to starting your campaign to advocate for TNVR. You can begin by gathering the information listed below.

How to Help a Dog Sensitive to Touch

White dog who is sensitive to touch being handled in a positive manner with head pats

A dog sensitive to touch is not uncommon. Some dogs have touch sensitivity all over while others only have small areas, such as their paws, that they don’t like being handled. But there are steps you can take to help your dog become less nervous and even enjoy touch.

Why is my dog sensitive to touch?

Several factors can influence a dog’s comfort level with being touched. Here are a few examples:

How to Find a Lost Cat: Tips From a Pet Detective

Brown tabby cat hiding behind some debris outside

The number of missing cats is difficult to estimate, as is the number of cats who tragically are never found. Sometimes pet cats stay lost even though their families do everything they can think of to find them. But many times, people don't know how or where to begin when it comes to how to find a lost cat.

Kat Albrecht, an investigative pet detective, is determined to change that. After all, finding a lost cat is about more than standing outside your front door and yelling, “Here, kitty, kitty.”