SmileHub, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting donors with charities, conducted an extensive analysis of wildlife protection across all 50 states. The study assessed 17 key metrics, including the number of animal and environmental protection agencies per capita, the strength of wildlife protection laws, and the presence of wildlife-focused charities. Each state was given a score on a 100-point scale, with higher numbers indicating stronger wildlife protections.

In December 2024, the death of a fur farmer in Ashtabula County, Ohio, exposed a horrific animal welfare crisis at an unregulated fur and urine farm. Over 400 wild animals, including foxes, coyotes, and skunks, were found trapped in inhumane conditions, bred for fur and bodily waste, with no government oversight due to Ohio's inadequate laws.

Part of the classic image of deer often includes them munching on a twig, fallen fruit, or wandering a field. That question has to be posed: how readily available are food resources for them in the winter, and can we (humans) safely help supplement? Whether you designate a feeding station, scatter them in your yard, or grow your own, nuts are a great way to invite the local deer into your yard.