Pet Parent Library

We recognize both the joys and challenges of pet ownership. Understanding the frustration that may arise when dealing with difficulties in a beloved pet, we urge you to consider us as a valuable resource for behavior and education.  

If attempting these methods at home proves ineffective, we recommend reaching out to a Certified Dog Trainer and Behavior Specialist - CPDT-KA.

Dogs play a crucial role in our families, requiring effort, understanding, and commitment, much like any other relationship. A properly trained dog can bring immense joy and happiness into your life.

Animal Cruelty in NJ

Animal cruelty is illegal in New Jersey, as it is nationwide.  NJ laws address a spectrum of behaviors, including torture and leaving pets outside in unfavorable weather conditions. In July 2023, Governor Murphy reinforced animal cruelty laws, particularly focusing on proper shelter and addressing improper tethering. Despite these strengthened laws, there remains a challenge in getting law enforcement to prioritize knowing and enforcing these laws. which put the lives of innocent animals at risk. This struggle has persisted for six years as of February 1, 2024.

 

Please if you SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.

Animal Shelters

Animal shelters in NJ are currently grappling with a severe crisis, and it's imperative for everyone to unite and seek assistance. The challenges faced include potential threats to progressive animal sheltering from various sources such as individuals profiting from dogs, backyard breeders, and no-kill advocates. This situation demands a collective effort to learn and openly discuss the critical issues affecting our shelters.

Taxpayers often bear the burden of funding overcrowded shelters, and the limited space and staff at most shelters make it challenging to care for all the animals. Some advocates, not fully understanding the complexities of running a shelter, prioritize saving lives without considering the logistical challenges. This leads to complaints when animals are placed in crates. Finding a comprehensive solution becomes crucial in navigating these challenges.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are we?

• We are NON-PROFIT; We are NOT a charity 501(c)3. We are not a rescue organization.

• We are an animal welfare advocacy organization, and we help fight animal cruelty in shelters and in communities throughout New Jersey. We volunteer at animal shelters. Our boots are on the ground.

• We work with many. o local and State Police, o local and municipal prosecutors, o township administrations and members of councils, o animal control officers, o local and county DOHs, o local and county HLEOS

• We are also a member of a coalition of local and national animal welfare organizations, including the HSUS, ADLF, and the Lesniak Institute,

• A member of NACA (National Animal Care and Control Assoc.) and AAWA(Association of Animal Welfare Advancement)

• Served on a local Mayor’s Animal Welfare Transition Team.

• In 2022 Companion Animal Advocates had the privilege of being a guest speaker at the Mercer County HLEO/ACO training by the prosecutor's office.

• Founder has certificates on:

     o HSUS NJ Community Disaster Preparedness

     o HSUS How to Escape the Cat Race

     o AWA Practicing Ethical Community Engagement

     o ALDF Legislative Update 2021

     o HSUS Law Enforcement Training on Police/Dog Encounters

     o Fear-Free Sheltering

     o Defensive Dog Handling Training

     o Basic, Advanced, Loose Leash, Nose Work, Tricks, Reactive Dog, etc. Dog Training

     o AWA Quality of Life Applications for Animal Shelters

• We are a completely volunteer organization that is in many counties in NJ.

We were quoted by Gov. Murphy in his Press Release, July 26, 2023 

What is the mission of Companion Animal Advocates, NJ

Our mission is to fight against animal cruelty in shelters and communities throughout New Jersey. We aim to help shelters and the animals they care for.  With our boots on the ground, we volunteer at shelters and work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of our furry friends.

What do people need to provide us when they reach out?

When you are concerned about an animal living in cruel conditions, you should have time, dates, and pictures.  The more information that can be documented the better chance it is of helping the animal. 

Who should contact Companion Animal Advocates, NJ?

NJ residents reach out to us when animals are subjected to cruel conditions, often involving improper shelter and inappropriate tethering. They seek our assistance when they have seen no improvement or are worried about potential retaliation.

How can you get involved?

You can join our volunteer programs at local shelters or participate in our advocacy campaigns to help make a difference for animals in New Jersey.  Just fill out the contact form on this page.

Please be patient, as the animals come first.  

Spotlight Pooch:

Featured Pets

Woofs And A Link to Meows 

 

From time to time, we will showcase a dog or cat of the week from a local animal shelter. This is a courtesy post, and if you are interested in adopting or fostering the featured dog or cat, please reach out to the shelter directly. We will include the shelter's information, including their address and contact details.

Join Us 

Companion Animal Advocates, NJ is an animal welfare advocacy organization based in New Jersey. Our team is composed of passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of companion animals. We believe in the power of education, advocacy, and hands-on support to create a better world for animals in need.

 

For those with a passion for animals and a desire to make a difference, Companion Animal Advocates, NJ, offers an incredible opportunity to join our dedicated team. We are always seeking compassionate and level-headed individuals who can devote their time to helping animals in unlivable conditions. Our advocates must be able to handle a variety of personalities and situations with empathy and professionalism. If you are committed to improving the lives of companion animals, consider becoming part of our team and make a lasting impact in New Jersey.

Lost and Found Dogs

This section provides information on what to do if your canine companion is lost or if you find someone else's dog.

 

It does not list any lost or found dogs.

Adopt

For individuals considering the heartfelt decision to open their homes and hearts to adopt a dog, we provide information. The act of adoption is a significant commitment, yet it yields immeasurable joy and love, enriching your life and creating a lasting bond with a furry companion.

Foster

In fostering, a dog is not in a shelter kennel, freeing it for another animal and potentially saving lives. Additionally, foster homes benefit pets who struggle in the shelter environment.

Foster homes are hero homes!

Shelter Needs

 

Supporting animal shelters involves addressing their needs as they define them, and this section outlines some ways you can contribute.

Animal Control Services

Animal control is responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to the welfare of animals in Trenton. These services involve a range of responsibilities, including responding to reports of stray or injured animals, managing and sheltering lost or abandoned animals, and enforcing local animal-related ordinances. Animal control services aim to ensure the well-being of both domestic and wild animals and promote public safety.