In both 2022 and 2024, we were honored to present at the Texas Animal Control Association Annual Conference. Our 2022 presentation focused on the growing practice of interstate pet transport – commonly known as humane relocation. While the initiative began with good intentions, its evolution has, in some cases, led to concerning outcomes such as puppy trafficking and the rise of retail rescue.

Why does this matter? In this first segment of our seven-part series, we trace the origins of large-scale humane relocation efforts, beginning with one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. animal welfare history: Hurricane Katrina. We explore how this natural disaster spurred a nationwide movement that would forever reshape the way animals are moved, adopted, and marketed.

This presentation sets the stage for a critical discussion on how a well-meaning solution to shelter overcrowding can, if unchecked, drift into ethically and practically challenging territory. We hope this series sparks meaningful conversation and encourages thoughtful, data-driven reform in animal welfare policy and practice.

👉 Continue the series to follow the journey from disaster response to retail rescue on our YouTube Channel.

#HumaneRelocation #AnimalWelfare #PuppyTrafficking #RetailRescue #ShelterDogs #CanineAdvocacy