Recommended Reading: Carnivores of the World, by Luke Hunter

Big cat expert and President of Panthera, Luke Hunter, has created a comprehensive field guide of all the terrestrial carnivores. It is filled with facts on 245 species, from aardwolves to zorillas! . Plus, 86 beautiful original color plats by acclaimed artist Priscilla Barrett. Small enough to travel around the world! Highly recommended. Listen to Lori’s interview with Luke here. 

Animals Today Radio - January 8, 2012 - PA State Senator Andy Dinniman and Joe Dwyer on humane euthanasia legislation. Gary Mansir, with Camp Bow Wow Portland

On today’s show, Lori began with a fascinating discussion about the use of gas for euthanasia of companion animals. Her guests were Pennsylvania State Senator Andy Dinniman, and animal advocate Joe Dwyer. Euthanasia by gas is very cruel and they are working to advance legislation (Daniel's Law) to ban its use in the state. Looks like they will succeed.  Senator Dinniman’s website is here. Also make sure to visit Joe Dwyer’s site, Daniel the Beagle, and learn more about what Daniel, who survived a gas chamber, and Joe are doing to end this inhumane practice and also to promote adoptions. (Joe is also an author and motivational speaker – check out his latest book, The Dog Ate My Homework.)

Then, Peter spoke with Gary Mansir, Co-owner of Camp Bow Wow Portland, Maine. This doggie daycare franchise was responsible for getting more than 100 dogs adopted into new homes in 2011. In fact, a big part of the business practice, from corporate to the individual franchises, is aimed at promoting adoptions. Maybe you'll want to open a franchise after listening to Gary and Peter! Take a look at Camp Bow Wow Portland, and you can see all the action on the web cams, too.

Plus, some important news items with Peter. Listen to the show here.

Recommended Reading: Defending the Defenseless: A guide to Protecting and Advocating for Pets by Allie Phillips

Long time animal advocate and attorney Allie Phillips has written a fantastic guide for anyone who cares about companion animals and who wants to do more to help and protect them.  With chapters entitled, “Becoming an Animal Advocate: Where to Start,” “Humane Education: Kids Helping Animals,” and “Protecting Feral Cats,” Phillips provides a very wide range of practical tips and specific projects for people of any age. It is hard to read or even just to page through this book and not become inspired.