08/29/2026
One thing we wish was talked about more in animal welfare is how important it is to verify what we see online before forming an opinion about someone or an organization.
Social media makes it incredibly easy for one side of a story or a personal opinion to spread quickly. A post can be shared hundreds of times before anyone stops to ask whether there is evidence behind it, whether important context is missing, or whether the person or organization being discussed was ever given an opportunity to respond.
Of course, legitimate concerns should always be taken seriously! Accountability is incredibly important, especially when animals are involved. But accountability should be based on facts and evidence, not rumours, assumptions, or personal opinions presented as fact.
We've watched good people and organizations in animal welfare be judged by things posted online before anyone stopped to ask “Is this actually true?” Taking a few minutes to find out the difference matters.
There is room for all of us in animal welfare. We aren't each other's competition. We may have different roles, but we're all working toward the same goal.. helping animals who need us.
Veterinarians, rescue and sanctuary volunteers and workers, shelter employees, and others working in animal welfare already face incredibly high levels of compassion fatigue, burnout and emotional strain. They also have a higher rate of su***de. The way we speak about and treat one another matters.
Please choose kindness and understanding, while still asking questions and seeking the truth. Before sharing, judging or assuming, take the time to look for the full story.
Misinformation being spread not only affects the ones caring for animals in need but the animals in their care as well making it that much more important that we learn the truth before taking someone's word.
To the veterinarian and shelter who just experienced this and the ones who tried to help bring out the truth and were met with negativity and attacks themselves, our heart goes out to you. Please know that we see you and all the hard work you do. Keep your chin up, you know how amazing you are! Don't let others make you think otherwise
