Advocacy

Advocating for Animal Welfare

Michigan Humane has been protecting animals in Michigan for over 100 years by helping shape laws that improve animal welfare. The organization believes that strong, carefully written laws and proper enforcement are key to creating lasting change. Michigan Humane works at both the state and local levels to support laws that help animals and to oppose legislation that could cause harm.

Person kneeling down next to dog
Advocacy

Legislative Victory! Bond-or-forfeit Bills Passed!

Michigan has officially enacted Public Acts 0087 and 0088, establishing a new bond-or-forfeit procedure for animals seized in cruelty and neglect cases. Signed by Governor ...
Pet cemetery
Advocacy

Regulating Pet Cemeteries in Michigan

For many, pets are cherished family members, and finding a respectful final resting place for them is an important part of the healing process. Despite ...
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I Found a Stray Dog – What Should I Do?

Spotted a loose dog on your summer walk? Before you step in, learn the essential steps for keeping everyone safe, identifying owners via tags or ...

How Michigan Humane Helps Animals Through Legislation

Michigan Humane focuses on:

  1. Supporting animal-friendly laws.
  2. Opposing bills that could negatively impact animals.
  3. Working with state and local governments.
  4. Promoting laws that are effective and enforceable.
These efforts help improve the lives of animals across Michigan and beyond.

Summary: Through legislative efforts, Michigan Humane ensures that laws not only exist to protect animals but are also practical, enforceable, and in the animals’ best interest.

Get Involved: Legislative Action Network

Michigan Humane encourages the public to take part in animal advocacy through the Legislative Action Network.

By joining, you can:

  1. Receive monthly blogs and updates
  2. Learn when and how to take action
  3. Support animal welfare in your community

Joining the network is an easy way for community members to get involved, stay informed, and actively help improve animal welfare in Michigan.

Learn About Animal Law and Policy

Michigan Humane offers tools to help advocates stay informed:

  1. Advocacy Blog – Learn about animal law and welfare issues
  2. Bill Summary & Tracking Tool – Follow Michigan legislation and positions

Summary: These resources make it easier for supporters to understand complex laws, track bills, and make informed advocacy decisions.

Focus on Local Ordinances

Why local ordinances matter:

  1. They can be customized to community needs.
  2. Local officials and residents provide direct input.
  3. Enforcement is often more effective at the local level.

Michigan Humane’s Local Ordinance Library includes sample ordinances and guidance for advocates.

Summary: Working on local ordinances allows advocates to make meaningful changes that directly benefit animals in their communities.

Helpful Resources for Advocates

Learn About Animal Law and Policy

Animal Law & Welfare Education

Research & Enforcement

Join Michigan Humane

For almost 150 years, Michigan Humane has been well-known for pet adoption but we do so much more. Michigan Humane’s programs and services are here to help when you need it.
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