Entries by Betsy Thibaut-Stephenson

Open Season on Ticks

Whether you’re an outdoorsman or prefer a hike to catch the changing colors and cooler weather, the risk of ticks does not fade with the end of summer. Take steps to protect your animals and yourself from these disease-carrying pests. Learn more

Animals Can Help Cancer Patients

A growing body of research examines the impact that pets and animal-assisted therapy can have on cancer patients, and the prognosis is positive: animals can alleviate psychological distress, facilitate communication between patients and health care providers, and even help detect some types of cancer. Learn more

Vaccinate to Eliminate: The Global Effort to Control Rabies

In the U.S., maintaining our pets’ rabies vaccinations is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership. Still, rabies is real threat globally: 59,000 people die each year from rabies, mostly children in Africa and Asia. If left untreated, rabies is 100% fatal for humans. Vaccinating dogs is the most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies in people. […]

Celebrating Pets on Capitol Hill

Last week, members of Congress, their staff, and all-round animal lovers gathered at Pet Night on Capitol Hill to celebrate the human-animal bond. The evening featured special pet guests, including King, the 2019 Westminster Best in Show Winner, and Henry, the avalanche search and rescue dog from the film Superpower Dogs. Additionally, members of Congress […]

Winners of the Cutest Pets on Capitol Hill Contest!

We are proud to announce the winners of the annual Cutest Pets on Capitol Hill contest. In the spirit of paws-itive politics, this year’s contest saw 230 entries from Congressional offices across the Hill. Top accolades were announced at Pet Night on Capitol Hill by contest judges Representative Kurt Schrader (OR-5) and Representative Ted Yoho […]

Around the Barnyard: Farm Animals & Your Health

For many children, visiting a farm with family or school is a right of passage. Farms provide the real-life experience of hearing the “mooooos” and “baaahhhs” children imitate from books and songs. Sometimes, visitors can pet friendly farm animals, enriching their understanding of the world’s creatures and where food comes from. Despite the many benefits […]

Just a Few More Days to Cast Your Vote!

Who has the cutest pet on Capitol Hill? Will it be a big dog or a lap dog? A frisky cat or a cuddly kitten? A rooster or a tortoise?  Voting is open until Monday, September 9. Cast your vote now! VOTE NOW

Pocket Pets: So Small, But Still a Big Responsibility

Pocket Pets: So Small, But Still a Big Responsibility Mammals so small they can fit in your pocket are an attractive option for those looking to add a pet to their lives. But just like larger, more commonly-found cats and dogs, pocket pets come with important health, habitat, and care needs. Learn more about how […]

Dogs Around the World: Celebrating International Dog Day

Dogs all over the globe are man’s best friend, but owning a dog is so much more than companionship. Dogs can help us be more active, improve our mood, and help us feel safer. International Dog Day celebrates the deep connection between canines and humans; here are some fun facts about dogs around the world: […]

Cast Your Vote for the Cutest Pets on Capitol Hill

For more than ten years, AHI has celebrated pets by hosting a friendly, non-partisan contest to elect the Cutest Pets on Capitol Hill. Congressional judges have selected the 2019 finalists, and the public is invited to vote for their favorites. Winners will be announced on September 18 at Pet Night on Capitol Hill. VOTE HERE