EVENTS
LOCATIONS & HOURS
CONTACT
Generic filters
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Search in excerpt
  • Adopt
        • Find a Pet
          • Dogs
          • Cats
          • Small Pets
          • Barn Pets
        • Pets By Location
          • ARL Main
          • ARL Animal Services
          • ARL West
          • Second Chance Ranch
          • Adoption Partners
        • Adoption Info
          • Adoption Process
          • Caring for Your New Pet
          • Perks
          • Where Are They Now?
          • ARL App
          • Post Adoption Support
          • Adoption Events
          • Pets Being Rehomed
  • Pet Services
        • Help
          • Lost & Found Pets
          • Pet Helpline
          • Behavior Helpline
          • Training Classes
          • Resource Library
          • Surrender Your Pet
          • End Of Life Services
          • Pet Wellness & Support
          • Operation CatSnip (Trap-Neuter-Return)
        • Animal Welfare
          • Rescue
          • Disaster/Emergency Preparedness
  • Get Involved
        • Get Involved
          • Foster
          • Facility Rentals
          • Volunteer
          • Birthdays
          • Events
          • TheraPets
          • For Kids/Families
          • Dogs Day Out
          • For Businesses
          • Humane Action Network
  • Ways To Give
        • Donate
          • Fetch List
          • Loyal Friends Club
          • Capital Projects
          • Corporate Giving
          • Donate to a Fund
          • Donate Now
        • Create a Legacy
          • Planned Giving
          • Tribute Gifts
          • Tax Strategic Gifts
        • Other
          • Shop
          • Facebook Fundraisers
          • Host a Fundraiser
          • Employer Matches
          • Explore More Ways
  • About
    • About
    • Who We Are
    • Contact
    • News
    • Locations
    • Careers
    • Reporting
    • Animal Services
    • FAQs
Donate

Give Monthly

85 Chickens and Roosters Seized in Suspected Cockfighting Operation

Posted on May. 21, 2018Oct. 6, 2025

UPDATE (01/17/18): ARL officials attended the plea and sentencing hearing this morning for Mariano Martinez (aka Mariano Martinez Ramirez) on the animal contest (cockfighting) case. Martinez entered an Alford Plea to count one, Animal Contest – Possess Contest Device (717D.2(6)) and the remaining 9 counts were dismissed by the prosecutor.

Under the plea agreement, the judge sentenced Martinez to 5 years in prison which was suspended, put him on probation for 2 years, and assessed a $750.00 fine, plus surcharges and probation charges.

On July 10, the birds were brought to the ARL’s Kruidenier Second Chance Ranch, where they were examined for evidence in the case and cared for by our rescue ranch team. After ownership of the birds was turned over to the ARL, each bird was individually evaluated for adoption, so we could match them with the right families as pets. The first weekend they were available, more than 30 of the birds found new homes. Eventually all the available birds were placed with new families.


Chickens being removed from propertyJuly 10, 2017 (Des Moines, Iowa) – The Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) assisted the Des Moines Police (DMPD) to remove 85 chickens and roosters from a property on the East side of Des Moines.

Mariano Martinez Ramirez has been charged with Felony Animal Contest – Possession of Contest Device (animal fighting paraphernalia), Misdemeanor Types Permitted (excessive animal numbers), and Violation of Probation. The DMPD is continuing the investigation and we will continue to assist however is needed.

The birds were brought to the ARL’s Second Chance Ranch where they were examined and photographed for evidence in the case. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) were also on-site to test the birds for possible contagious disease.

Animal Control Seizing ChickensRemoved Chickens
Chicken tested for contagious disease

“Animal fighting is a horrible, vicious crime where the animals suffer greatly at the hands of those involved. Because of this, many years ago, the ARL worked with lawmakers to elevate this level of animal cruelty to a felony. Unfortunately, it remains one of the few felony charges for animal crimes in our state.” said Tom Colvin, Executive Director with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.

In an illegal cockfight, two roosters fight each other to the death while people place bets. Left to themselves, roosters rarely hurt each other badly. In cockfights, on the other hand, the birds often wear razor-sharp blades on their legs and incur injuries like punctured lungs, broken bones and pierced eyes—when they even survive.

This is the fourth large-scale rescue the ARL has assisted authorities with so far this year and the first illegal animal fighting case in more than 7 years. Donations to support the ARL’s Cruelty Intervention program can be made at www.arl-iowa.org/donate (RE: End Cruelty).


About Animal Rescue League of Iowa
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is Iowa’s largest non-profit animal shelter, caring for many thousands of pets each year. The ARL serves people and pets from across the state through pet adoption, humane education, pet behavior training, spay/neuter, animal cruelty intervention and much more. For more information, visit ARL-Iowa.org.

Tagscruelty intervention

cruelty intervention

There are many reasons why your dog may be fearful. Learn ways that you can help your dog get over these fears, and what you can do to prevent additional fears.

Fears & Phobias in Dogs

Jun. 2, 2025

There are many reasons why your dog may be fearful. Learn ways that you can help your dog get over these fears, and what you can do to prevent additional fears.

Read more
Crate training is one of the most effective ways to help your pet learn good behavior while keeping them safe. Whether you've welcomed a new puppy or adopted an adult dog, a crate can be a valuable tool to set your pet up for success, and with the right approach, crates can become a cozy, safe space for your pet.

Crate Training

May. 21, 2025

Crate training is one of the most effective ways to help your pet learn good behavior while keeping them safe. Whether you’ve welcomed a new puppy or adopted an adult dog, a crate can be a valuable tool to set your pet up for success, and with the right approach, crates can become a cozy, safe space for your pet.

Read more
This method of housetraining is focused on preventing “accidents” instead of waiting for the accidents to happen. The goal is to make it easy for the puppy to do the right thing in the first place. If you already own an adult dog with housetraining problems, you can use this method to start fresh just as you would with a puppy.

Housetraining Your Dog

May. 21, 2025

This method of housetraining is focused on preventing “accidents” instead of waiting for the accidents to happen. The goal is to make it easy for the puppy to do the right thing in the first place. If you already own an adult dog with housetraining problems, you can use this method to start fresh just as you would with a puppy.

Read more
Separation anxiety describes dogs that are overly attached or dependent on family members. They become extremely anxious and show distress behaviors of vocalization, destruction, house-soiling or inactivity when separated from the owners. This article covers ways that you can help your pet with this stressful behavior.

Separation Anxiety

May. 21, 2025

Separation anxiety describes dogs that are overly attached or dependent on family members. They become extremely anxious and show distress behaviors of vocalization, destruction, house-soiling or inactivity when separated from the owners. This article covers ways that you can help your pet with this stressful behavior.

Read more
Clicker training incorporates a marker (the click) to communicate with the learner that they performed what the trainer was looking for at the very instant the behavior was performed. The “click” signifies to the learner that a reward will be coming. Since dogs don't speak human (and we don't speak dog), using a clicker will help to bridge the communication gap.

Clicker Training Your Dog

May. 21, 2025

Clicker training incorporates a marker (the click) to communicate with the learner that they performed what the trainer was looking for at the very instant the behavior was performed. The “click” signifies to the learner that a reward will be coming. Since dogs don’t speak human (and we don’t speak dog), using a clicker will help to bridge the communication gap.

Read more
Adding another dog to your household can bring you and your current dog more fun and companionship. In the long run, things will probably work out fabulously, but in the beginning it's a very smart idea to take a few extra steps to make everyone feel good about the new arrangement. This article provides some guidelines for making smooth and safe introductions and ensuring that your dogs' relationship gets off to a great start.

Introducing Your Dog to a New Dog

May. 21, 2025

Adding another dog to your household can bring you and your current dog more fun and companionship. In the long run, things will probably work out fabulously, but in the beginning it’s a very smart idea to take a few extra steps to make everyone feel good about the new arrangement. This article provides some guidelines for making smooth and safe introductions and ensuring that your dogs’ relationship gets off to a great start.

Read more
Any dog can bite, regardless of its personality, size, age or breed. According to the American Veterinary Association, 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs each year. There are ways to reduce the risk of dog bites, though, including learning how to interact with dogs you don't know and practicing responsible dog ownership to help lessen the chances your own dog will bite.

Preventing and Avoiding Bites

May. 21, 2025

Any dog can bite, regardless of its personality, size, age or breed. According to the American Veterinary Association, 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs each year. There are ways to reduce the risk of dog bites, though, including learning how to interact with dogs you don’t know and practicing responsible dog ownership to help lessen the chances your own dog will bite.

Read more
Resource guarding is a fairly common canine behavior issue, and can be among the most serious of behavior problems if it is not managed properly. In the wild, resources are scarce, and wild dogs learned to guard their food, shelter, and other resources from other animals in their environment.

Resource Guarding

May. 21, 2025

Resource guarding is a fairly common canine behavior issue, and can be among the most serious of behavior problems if it is not managed properly. In the wild, resources are scarce, and wild dogs learned to guard their food, shelter, and other resources from other animals in their environment.

Read more
The best way to train your pet is through the proper use of positive reinforcement / rewards. You need to understand when and how to use them and what will happen if they are improperly used. With training you want your pet to “learn” the desired task and/or behavior.

Positive Reinforcement and Rewarding

May. 21, 2025

The best way to train your pet is through the proper use of positive reinforcement / rewards. You need to understand when and how to use them and what will happen if they are improperly used. With training you want your pet to “learn” the desired task and/or behavior.

Read more
Plants add the needed finishing touches to any decor. But, if you have a feline that beautiful plant could become a deadly enemy.

Cats and Houseplants

May. 14, 2025

Plants add the needed finishing touches to any decor. But, if you have a feline that beautiful plant could become a deadly enemy.

Read more
Is your cat having litterbox problems? Cats may use their litterbox for years and then stop using it for no apparent reason. Most likely there IS a reason they have stopped, and to fix the problem, you will need to figure out what the reason is.

The Litterbox

May. 14, 2025

Is your cat having litterbox problems? Cats may use their litterbox for years and then stop using it for no apparent reason. Most likely there IS a reason they have stopped, and to fix the problem, you will need to figure out what the reason is.

Read more
Are you having problems getting some Z's with your new cat. Here are a few tips to help you get some shut-eye.

How to Get Some Sleep… and Keep Your Cat

May. 14, 2025

Are you having problems getting some Z’s with your new cat. Here are a few tips to help you get some shut-eye.

Read more
Introducing a new cat to an established canine household or a new dog to an established feline household can be a bit touchy. Use these tips to help establish a relationship that will last for years to come.

Introducing Dogs and Cats

May. 14, 2025

Introducing a new cat to an established canine household or a new dog to an established feline household can be a bit touchy. Use these tips to help establish a relationship that will last for years to come.

Read more
Introducing your new cat to your other pets at home can be a tricky process. However, it is one of the most important things to do correctly with your cat or kitten. Here are some hints to ease the change.

Introducing your Cat to Other Cats

May. 14, 2025

Introducing your new cat to your other pets at home can be a tricky process. However, it is one of the most important things to do correctly with your cat or kitten. Here are some hints to ease the change.

Read more
There are many unfortunate myths about cats still floating around. Read this article for explanations of many of the most common myths.

Myths About Cats

May. 14, 2025

There are many unfortunate myths about cats still floating around. Read this article for explanations of many of the most common myths.

Read more
Traveling with your cat may seem daunting, but it can be done! Here are a few things you can do to ensure the safety and well being of your cat when traveling.

Traveling with Your Cat

May. 14, 2025

Traveling with your cat may seem daunting, but it can be done! Here are a few things you can do to ensure the safety and well being of your cat when traveling.

Read more
Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats

Your Vocal Cat

May. 14, 2025

Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats “talk” more than others, here are some common reasons why your cat may be talking to you!

Read more
Did you find kittens outside? Use this chart to help you determine the next steps you should take.

Found Kittens? Don’t Kit-nap!

Mar. 4, 2025

Did you find kittens outside? Use this chart to help you determine the next steps you should take.

Read more
The list of benefits for indoor cats is long! If you're on the fence, read more to make an informed decision.

Indoor Cats – What Do They Miss

Jan. 6, 2025

The list of benefits for indoor cats is long! If you’re on the fence, read more to make an informed decision.

Read more
There are many ways to enrich the life of your indoor cat. Keeping in mind that every cat is an individual, spend some time discovering what your feline particularly enjoys.
Here are some ideas, products and objects that you may consider to enrich your cat's daily life!

Enrichment for Indoor Cats

Nov. 28, 2022

There are many ways to enrich the life of your indoor cat. Keeping in mind that every cat is an individual, spend some time discovering what your feline particularly enjoys.
Here are some ideas, products and objects that you may consider to enrich your cat’s daily life!

Read more
Multiple cat households are common and keeping the peace is important for the emotional well-being of all cats in the home.

Resolving Conflict Between Cats

Nov. 28, 2022

Multiple cat households are common and keeping the peace is important for the emotional well-being of all cats in the home.

Read more
Cats that come from hoarding situations have spent most of their lives with other cats and many times have had very little contact with people. They can be fearful in new situations, however with time, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques  these cats can become a part of the family.

Adopting a Cat from a Hoarding Situation

Nov. 17, 2022

Cats that come from hoarding situations have spent most of their lives with other cats and many times have had very little contact with people. They can be fearful in new situations, however with time, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques these cats can become a part of the family.

Read more
Using the proper collar and leash is essential for creating an enjoyable experience for your dog, and you, whether attending events, going on their daily walk or exploring new territory! Prong collars, e-collars, and choke chains increase a dog's discomfort level in their throat area when pressure or shock is applied, or emotionally since the dog may not understand why it's happening.

Prong Collars, E-Collars, and Choke Chains, OH MY!

Sep. 7, 2021

Using the proper collar and leash is essential for creating an enjoyable experience for your dog, and you, whether attending events, going on their daily walk or exploring new territory! Prong collars, e-collars, and choke chains increase a dog’s discomfort level in their throat area when pressure or shock is applied, or emotionally since the dog may not understand why it’s happening.

Read more
April has arrived and with it comes sunshine, warmer temperatures, and unfortunately, insects. Keeping your cats safe from some of the worst pests, like fleas and ticks, is normally a no brainer, but what about heartworms?

Does Your Cat Need Heartworm Prevention?

Apr. 7, 2021

April has arrived and with it comes sunshine, warmer temperatures, and unfortunately, insects. Keeping your cats safe from some of the worst pests, like fleas and ticks, is normally a no brainer, but what about heartworms?

Read more
Millions of pets go missing every year and can take days, months, or even years to be reunited with their family. Don't let this happen to you! Take the steps below to keep your pet safe and give them the best chance to be reunited with you should they get out.

Steps to Take Now to Help Prevent Losing Your Pet

Mar. 10, 2021

Millions of pets go missing every year and can take days, months, or even years to be reunited with their family. Don’t let this happen to you! Take the steps below to keep your pet safe and give them the best chance to be reunited with you should they get out.

Read more
We talked to our Behavior Experts at the ARL to find out how to recognize separation anxiety in dogs and how to best prep your pooch for your new work schedule.

How to Prepare Your Dog for Your Return to Work

Feb. 10, 2021

We talked to our Behavior Experts at the ARL to find out how to recognize separation anxiety in dogs and how to best prep your pooch for your new work schedule.

Read more
Play-motivated aggressive behaviors are common in young, active cats less than two years of age, and in cats that live in one-cat households. Learn ways to discourage unwanted behavior and encourage wanted behavior.

Managing Rough Play

Dec. 15, 2020

Play-motivated aggressive behaviors are common in young, active cats less than two years of age, and in cats that live in one-cat households. Learn ways to discourage unwanted behavior and encourage wanted behavior.

Read more
Tips from the ARL of Iowa on how to keep your cat from being a scrooge and keeping your Christmas tree up longer!

Cats and Christmas Trees

Dec. 7, 2020

Tips from the ARL of Iowa on how to keep your cat from being a scrooge and keeping your Christmas tree up longer!

Read more
When a new baby is coming into the family, you can do things to prepare the cat for this so that the cat can more easily adjust to having a new family member around.

Cats and Babies

Jan. 23, 2018

When a new baby is coming into the family, you can do things to prepare the cat for this so that the cat can more easily adjust to having a new family member around.

Read more
ou have just come home from the Animal Rescue League with the cutest puppy or most beautiful dog in the world. You want this dog to be Lassie, Rin Tin Tin and Benji, all rolled into one great dog. How do you get there from here?

Creating and Maintaining a Bond with Your Dog

Jan. 23, 2018

ou have just come home from the Animal Rescue League with the cutest puppy or most beautiful dog in the world. You want this dog to be Lassie, Rin Tin Tin and Benji, all rolled into one great dog. How do you get there from here?

Read more
Your feline friends could benefit from having another cat-friend around!

Felines Need Friends Too!

Jan. 23, 2018

Your feline friends could benefit from having another cat-friend around!

Read more
Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats

Is Your Cat Vocal?

Oct. 24, 2017

Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats “talk” more than others, here are some common reasons why your cat may be talking to you!

Read more
Load More

Categories

  • News
  • Pet Help
  • Pet PSA

ARL Rescues 10 Severely Neglected Horses from Property in Warren County

Posted on Apr. 3, 2017Jan. 12, 2026

Update (5/4/17):

Case 1: Just before the disposition hearing for Paula Redding, to determine whether she would get back the 10 horses she’s charged with neglecting, she voluntarily signed them over to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL). The ARL has been caring for and rehabilitating these 10 horses since March 31 when the ARL Rescue Team assisted Warren County officials in the rescue.

Case 2: Dennis White of Indianola was charged with 1 count of livestock neglect for the 4 extremely emaciated horses that were removed from his property on April 3. The ARL Rescue Team assisted Warren County officials to remove these horses just 3 days after the Redding case. A veterinarian later confirmed one of the emaciated horses from this rescue is pregnant and although a heartbeat was found, due to her extreme body condition, they were initially unable to tell how far along she is in the pregnancy. Yesterday, Veterinarians estimated her delivery to be within a week, so we will likely have another update very soon.

All 14 horses (soon to be 15) continue to undergo rehabilitation to prepare them for eventual adoption. Donations to help the horses are being accepted online (http://tinyurl.com/k88qkdw) or at any ARL location.


Emaciated HorsesHORSE RESCUE UPDATE  (04/04/17, 4:00p.m.): Yesterday, just as we were updating you about Friday’s horse rescue in Warren County, it happened again. We received another call to help Warren County officials remove 4 more emaciated horses, this time from a property near Indianola. Our rescue team quickly assembled, and together, with horse trailers in tow, met Warren County officials at the property.

This time it was much worse.

All 4 horses were evaluated at the rescue site by an equine veterinarian and were determined to be extremely emaciated. Fortunately, rescue arrived just in time for these horses. Their owner voluntarily surrendered the 4 horses to the ARL so they will never go back to where they were. They arrived last night at our Kruidenier Second Chance Ranch, where we have already begun the long and costly road to recovery.

In the past 4 days we have taken in 14 horses in desperate need of help. When law enforcement has nowhere else to turn, they contact the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.

To donate to the care of all 14 rescued horses as they begin their recovery – and ensure that we will be able to continue to say “yes” when called upon to help a suffering animal – please donate by click the button below.

Help the Horses


ARL Rescues 10 Severely Neglected Horses from Property in Warren County
This is the second animal rescue in Warren County in the past two months.

Warren county horsesApril 3, 2017 (Des Moines, Iowa) – On Friday, March 31, Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) officials received a call from the Warren County Sheriff’s Office to remove 10 horses from a property in New Virginia, IA. The horses were on a property that was littered with metal and other junk. It was evident that the horses had eaten bark off of the trees because of lack of proper nutrition and did not have adequate access to clean water.

One horse was clearly suffering from an acute medical condition. One of the horses had a halter that was almost embedded into its skin and another horse had a halter that had been on for so long that the halter could not be unbuckled and had to be cut off.

The horses range in body conditions from “emaciated” to “very thin”.

The ARL rescue team relocated the 10 horses to the ARL’s Second Chance Ranch in Des Moines where they are now receiving medical care and rehabilitation. The Warren County Sheriff’s office is continuing the investigation and pursuing possible charges. We will continue to assist the Sheriff’s office however is needed so that the person/people responsible for these horses’ horrible conditions will be held accountable.

“Many of these horses were in horrendous conditions. While we are still learning all of the details of this case, there is no excuse for leaving animals to suffer like this.” said Tom Colvin, Executive Director with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.

These horses now face a long road to recovery. The ARL is seeking the public’s help with hay and veterinary expenses. You can make a donation directly to Help the Horses at http://tinyurl.com/lqjvsjv.

____________

About Animal Rescue League of Iowa
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is Iowa’s largest nonprofit animal shelter, caring for many thousands of pets each year. The ARL serves people and pets from across the state through pet adoption, humane education, pet behavior training, spay/neuter, animal cruelty intervention and much more. For more information, visit ARL-Iowa.org.

Tagscruelty intervention

cruelty intervention

There are many reasons why your dog may be fearful. Learn ways that you can help your dog get over these fears, and what you can do to prevent additional fears.

Fears & Phobias in Dogs

Jun. 2, 2025

There are many reasons why your dog may be fearful. Learn ways that you can help your dog get over these fears, and what you can do to prevent additional fears.

Read more
Crate training is one of the most effective ways to help your pet learn good behavior while keeping them safe. Whether you've welcomed a new puppy or adopted an adult dog, a crate can be a valuable tool to set your pet up for success, and with the right approach, crates can become a cozy, safe space for your pet.

Crate Training

May. 21, 2025

Crate training is one of the most effective ways to help your pet learn good behavior while keeping them safe. Whether you’ve welcomed a new puppy or adopted an adult dog, a crate can be a valuable tool to set your pet up for success, and with the right approach, crates can become a cozy, safe space for your pet.

Read more
This method of housetraining is focused on preventing “accidents” instead of waiting for the accidents to happen. The goal is to make it easy for the puppy to do the right thing in the first place. If you already own an adult dog with housetraining problems, you can use this method to start fresh just as you would with a puppy.

Housetraining Your Dog

May. 21, 2025

This method of housetraining is focused on preventing “accidents” instead of waiting for the accidents to happen. The goal is to make it easy for the puppy to do the right thing in the first place. If you already own an adult dog with housetraining problems, you can use this method to start fresh just as you would with a puppy.

Read more
Separation anxiety describes dogs that are overly attached or dependent on family members. They become extremely anxious and show distress behaviors of vocalization, destruction, house-soiling or inactivity when separated from the owners. This article covers ways that you can help your pet with this stressful behavior.

Separation Anxiety

May. 21, 2025

Separation anxiety describes dogs that are overly attached or dependent on family members. They become extremely anxious and show distress behaviors of vocalization, destruction, house-soiling or inactivity when separated from the owners. This article covers ways that you can help your pet with this stressful behavior.

Read more
Clicker training incorporates a marker (the click) to communicate with the learner that they performed what the trainer was looking for at the very instant the behavior was performed. The “click” signifies to the learner that a reward will be coming. Since dogs don't speak human (and we don't speak dog), using a clicker will help to bridge the communication gap.

Clicker Training Your Dog

May. 21, 2025

Clicker training incorporates a marker (the click) to communicate with the learner that they performed what the trainer was looking for at the very instant the behavior was performed. The “click” signifies to the learner that a reward will be coming. Since dogs don’t speak human (and we don’t speak dog), using a clicker will help to bridge the communication gap.

Read more
Adding another dog to your household can bring you and your current dog more fun and companionship. In the long run, things will probably work out fabulously, but in the beginning it's a very smart idea to take a few extra steps to make everyone feel good about the new arrangement. This article provides some guidelines for making smooth and safe introductions and ensuring that your dogs' relationship gets off to a great start.

Introducing Your Dog to a New Dog

May. 21, 2025

Adding another dog to your household can bring you and your current dog more fun and companionship. In the long run, things will probably work out fabulously, but in the beginning it’s a very smart idea to take a few extra steps to make everyone feel good about the new arrangement. This article provides some guidelines for making smooth and safe introductions and ensuring that your dogs’ relationship gets off to a great start.

Read more
Any dog can bite, regardless of its personality, size, age or breed. According to the American Veterinary Association, 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs each year. There are ways to reduce the risk of dog bites, though, including learning how to interact with dogs you don't know and practicing responsible dog ownership to help lessen the chances your own dog will bite.

Preventing and Avoiding Bites

May. 21, 2025

Any dog can bite, regardless of its personality, size, age or breed. According to the American Veterinary Association, 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs each year. There are ways to reduce the risk of dog bites, though, including learning how to interact with dogs you don’t know and practicing responsible dog ownership to help lessen the chances your own dog will bite.

Read more
Resource guarding is a fairly common canine behavior issue, and can be among the most serious of behavior problems if it is not managed properly. In the wild, resources are scarce, and wild dogs learned to guard their food, shelter, and other resources from other animals in their environment.

Resource Guarding

May. 21, 2025

Resource guarding is a fairly common canine behavior issue, and can be among the most serious of behavior problems if it is not managed properly. In the wild, resources are scarce, and wild dogs learned to guard their food, shelter, and other resources from other animals in their environment.

Read more
The best way to train your pet is through the proper use of positive reinforcement / rewards. You need to understand when and how to use them and what will happen if they are improperly used. With training you want your pet to “learn” the desired task and/or behavior.

Positive Reinforcement and Rewarding

May. 21, 2025

The best way to train your pet is through the proper use of positive reinforcement / rewards. You need to understand when and how to use them and what will happen if they are improperly used. With training you want your pet to “learn” the desired task and/or behavior.

Read more
Plants add the needed finishing touches to any decor. But, if you have a feline that beautiful plant could become a deadly enemy.

Cats and Houseplants

May. 14, 2025

Plants add the needed finishing touches to any decor. But, if you have a feline that beautiful plant could become a deadly enemy.

Read more
Is your cat having litterbox problems? Cats may use their litterbox for years and then stop using it for no apparent reason. Most likely there IS a reason they have stopped, and to fix the problem, you will need to figure out what the reason is.

The Litterbox

May. 14, 2025

Is your cat having litterbox problems? Cats may use their litterbox for years and then stop using it for no apparent reason. Most likely there IS a reason they have stopped, and to fix the problem, you will need to figure out what the reason is.

Read more
Are you having problems getting some Z's with your new cat. Here are a few tips to help you get some shut-eye.

How to Get Some Sleep… and Keep Your Cat

May. 14, 2025

Are you having problems getting some Z’s with your new cat. Here are a few tips to help you get some shut-eye.

Read more
Introducing a new cat to an established canine household or a new dog to an established feline household can be a bit touchy. Use these tips to help establish a relationship that will last for years to come.

Introducing Dogs and Cats

May. 14, 2025

Introducing a new cat to an established canine household or a new dog to an established feline household can be a bit touchy. Use these tips to help establish a relationship that will last for years to come.

Read more
Introducing your new cat to your other pets at home can be a tricky process. However, it is one of the most important things to do correctly with your cat or kitten. Here are some hints to ease the change.

Introducing your Cat to Other Cats

May. 14, 2025

Introducing your new cat to your other pets at home can be a tricky process. However, it is one of the most important things to do correctly with your cat or kitten. Here are some hints to ease the change.

Read more
There are many unfortunate myths about cats still floating around. Read this article for explanations of many of the most common myths.

Myths About Cats

May. 14, 2025

There are many unfortunate myths about cats still floating around. Read this article for explanations of many of the most common myths.

Read more
Traveling with your cat may seem daunting, but it can be done! Here are a few things you can do to ensure the safety and well being of your cat when traveling.

Traveling with Your Cat

May. 14, 2025

Traveling with your cat may seem daunting, but it can be done! Here are a few things you can do to ensure the safety and well being of your cat when traveling.

Read more
Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats

Your Vocal Cat

May. 14, 2025

Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats “talk” more than others, here are some common reasons why your cat may be talking to you!

Read more
Did you find kittens outside? Use this chart to help you determine the next steps you should take.

Found Kittens? Don’t Kit-nap!

Mar. 4, 2025

Did you find kittens outside? Use this chart to help you determine the next steps you should take.

Read more
The list of benefits for indoor cats is long! If you're on the fence, read more to make an informed decision.

Indoor Cats – What Do They Miss

Jan. 6, 2025

The list of benefits for indoor cats is long! If you’re on the fence, read more to make an informed decision.

Read more
There are many ways to enrich the life of your indoor cat. Keeping in mind that every cat is an individual, spend some time discovering what your feline particularly enjoys.
Here are some ideas, products and objects that you may consider to enrich your cat's daily life!

Enrichment for Indoor Cats

Nov. 28, 2022

There are many ways to enrich the life of your indoor cat. Keeping in mind that every cat is an individual, spend some time discovering what your feline particularly enjoys.
Here are some ideas, products and objects that you may consider to enrich your cat’s daily life!

Read more
Multiple cat households are common and keeping the peace is important for the emotional well-being of all cats in the home.

Resolving Conflict Between Cats

Nov. 28, 2022

Multiple cat households are common and keeping the peace is important for the emotional well-being of all cats in the home.

Read more
Cats that come from hoarding situations have spent most of their lives with other cats and many times have had very little contact with people. They can be fearful in new situations, however with time, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques  these cats can become a part of the family.

Adopting a Cat from a Hoarding Situation

Nov. 17, 2022

Cats that come from hoarding situations have spent most of their lives with other cats and many times have had very little contact with people. They can be fearful in new situations, however with time, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques these cats can become a part of the family.

Read more
Using the proper collar and leash is essential for creating an enjoyable experience for your dog, and you, whether attending events, going on their daily walk or exploring new territory! Prong collars, e-collars, and choke chains increase a dog's discomfort level in their throat area when pressure or shock is applied, or emotionally since the dog may not understand why it's happening.

Prong Collars, E-Collars, and Choke Chains, OH MY!

Sep. 7, 2021

Using the proper collar and leash is essential for creating an enjoyable experience for your dog, and you, whether attending events, going on their daily walk or exploring new territory! Prong collars, e-collars, and choke chains increase a dog’s discomfort level in their throat area when pressure or shock is applied, or emotionally since the dog may not understand why it’s happening.

Read more
April has arrived and with it comes sunshine, warmer temperatures, and unfortunately, insects. Keeping your cats safe from some of the worst pests, like fleas and ticks, is normally a no brainer, but what about heartworms?

Does Your Cat Need Heartworm Prevention?

Apr. 7, 2021

April has arrived and with it comes sunshine, warmer temperatures, and unfortunately, insects. Keeping your cats safe from some of the worst pests, like fleas and ticks, is normally a no brainer, but what about heartworms?

Read more
Millions of pets go missing every year and can take days, months, or even years to be reunited with their family. Don't let this happen to you! Take the steps below to keep your pet safe and give them the best chance to be reunited with you should they get out.

Steps to Take Now to Help Prevent Losing Your Pet

Mar. 10, 2021

Millions of pets go missing every year and can take days, months, or even years to be reunited with their family. Don’t let this happen to you! Take the steps below to keep your pet safe and give them the best chance to be reunited with you should they get out.

Read more
We talked to our Behavior Experts at the ARL to find out how to recognize separation anxiety in dogs and how to best prep your pooch for your new work schedule.

How to Prepare Your Dog for Your Return to Work

Feb. 10, 2021

We talked to our Behavior Experts at the ARL to find out how to recognize separation anxiety in dogs and how to best prep your pooch for your new work schedule.

Read more
Play-motivated aggressive behaviors are common in young, active cats less than two years of age, and in cats that live in one-cat households. Learn ways to discourage unwanted behavior and encourage wanted behavior.

Managing Rough Play

Dec. 15, 2020

Play-motivated aggressive behaviors are common in young, active cats less than two years of age, and in cats that live in one-cat households. Learn ways to discourage unwanted behavior and encourage wanted behavior.

Read more
Tips from the ARL of Iowa on how to keep your cat from being a scrooge and keeping your Christmas tree up longer!

Cats and Christmas Trees

Dec. 7, 2020

Tips from the ARL of Iowa on how to keep your cat from being a scrooge and keeping your Christmas tree up longer!

Read more
When a new baby is coming into the family, you can do things to prepare the cat for this so that the cat can more easily adjust to having a new family member around.

Cats and Babies

Jan. 23, 2018

When a new baby is coming into the family, you can do things to prepare the cat for this so that the cat can more easily adjust to having a new family member around.

Read more
ou have just come home from the Animal Rescue League with the cutest puppy or most beautiful dog in the world. You want this dog to be Lassie, Rin Tin Tin and Benji, all rolled into one great dog. How do you get there from here?

Creating and Maintaining a Bond with Your Dog

Jan. 23, 2018

ou have just come home from the Animal Rescue League with the cutest puppy or most beautiful dog in the world. You want this dog to be Lassie, Rin Tin Tin and Benji, all rolled into one great dog. How do you get there from here?

Read more
Your feline friends could benefit from having another cat-friend around!

Felines Need Friends Too!

Jan. 23, 2018

Your feline friends could benefit from having another cat-friend around!

Read more
Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats

Is Your Cat Vocal?

Oct. 24, 2017

Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with you and with other animals. Some cats “talk” more than others, here are some common reasons why your cat may be talking to you!

Read more
Load More

Categories

  • News
  • Pet Help
  • Pet PSA

Email  Facebook   X  Instagram   YouTUbe   TikTok

Generic filters
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Search in excerpt

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc. is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law, tax identification number 42-0680427.

Donate
Foster
Volunteer

Email: arl@arl-iowa.org   .   Phone: (515) 262-9503

  • Home
  • Adopt
  • Pet Services
  • About
  • Get Involved
  • Ways To Give
  • Events
  • Locations & Hours
  • Mobile Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Refund / Return Policy
  • Careers

Copyright © 2026 ARL. All Rights Reserved. Site by Gradient9 Studios.

Donate
  • Home
  • Find a Pet
  • Events
  • Adopt
    ▼
    • ▲ Back
    • Dogs
    • Cats
    • Small Pets
    • Barn Pets
    • Pets By Location
    • ARL Main
    • ARL Animal Services
    • ARL West
    • Second Chance Ranch
    • Adoption Partners
    • Adoption Info
    • Adoption Process
    • Caring for Your New Pet
    • Perks
    • Where Are They Now?
    • ARL App
    • Post Adoption Support
    • Adoption Events
    • Pets Being Rehomed
  • Pet Services
    ▼
    • ▲ Back
    • Help
    • Operation CatSnip (Trap-Neuter-Return)
    • Pet Wellness & Support
    • End Of Life Services
    • Surrender Your Pet
    • Resource Library
    • Training Classes
    • Behavior Helpline
    • Pet Helpline
    • Lost & Found Pets
    • Animal Welfare
    • Rescue
    • Disaster/Emergency Preparedness
  • About
    ▼
    • ▲ Back
    • Locations
    • Contact
    • News
    • Animal Services
    • Reporting
    • Who We Are
    • FAQs
    • Careers
  • Get Involved
    ▼
    • ▲ Back
    • Volunteer
    • Foster
    • Events
    • TheraPets
    • Facility Rentals
    • Birthdays
    • For Kids/Families
    • For Businesses
    • Dogs Day Out
    • Humane Action Network
  • Ways To Give
    ▼
    • ▲ Back
    • Donate
    • Loyal Friends Club
    • Fetch List
    • Capital Projects
    • Corporate Giving
    • Donate to a Fund
    • Create a Legacy
    • Shop
    • Tribute Gifts
    • Other
    • Facebook Fundraisers
    • Host a Fundraiser
    • Employer Matches
    • Explore More Ways
  • Locations & Hours
  • Contact
Generic filters
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Search in excerpt
Donate