Animals blasted into space on Russian science mission. “Mice, geckos and gerbils, amongst other creatures, were blasted into orbit above the Earth today on a mission to test the effects of long space flight. The scientists say that while the animals should survive the mission and return to Earth, they will then need to be put to sleep humanely so the experts can get the tests they need.”

Being Vegan – Earth Day Needs To Be An Every Day Reality. “The sensibilities that I already had about our responsibility to care for the Earth went to another level when I became vegan.  I realized that by this one decision we were not only making a tremendous difference for animals, our bodies and spirits, but this is also one of the greenest personal decisions that we can make for the good of the planet.”

Florida wildlife sanctuary hosts baby shower. “The shower, held at Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida, is for baby animals. The Pensacola News Journal reports about 700 visitors brought trash bags, paper towels and food donations to help care for the animals during an event this weekend. Spring is the busiest time of year for the nonprofit because staff members must work around the clock to care for fragile baby birds, ducklings and other animals.”

Online smuggling has wildlife bureau hiring cyber detectives. “A preliminary inquiry by the bureau’s cyber crime specialists has indicated that nearly a thousand websites are advertising sale and delivery of live animals and animal products protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and the global Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).”

Animal Support Happy to Hear US Congress is ‘Going to the Dogs.‘ “New federal legislation, the Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act (PUPS Act) will ensure consistent regulation of all dog breeders, ensuring that all ‘puppy mills’ treat their pets for sale in a humane manner. As recently reported by CNN, all animal vendors – standard or online – that sell more than 50 animals per year will be required to adhere to standards set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Photo credit: DraconianRain via Flickr