(MARINE PARKS) ONTARIO — The ocean life at Marineland Canada is subjected to a bleak environment consisting of glass barriers, screaming children, overstressed parents, and roller coasters. Last week, a park spokesperson confirmed speculation surrounding these unsafe conditions, specifically the deaths of two young beluga whales. This information was brought to light in October 18, 2012, when the Toronto Star reported the park suddenly lost two young belugas. Although no specific date of death has been given for either animal, Charlotte, a three-year-old beluga, died sometime in Fall 2012, and Luna, a one-year-old, died sometime earlier this year. Read on to learn more about the controversial history of Marineland Canada. — Global Animal

(ANIMAL RESCUE) Thanks to PAWS Chicago Animal Shelter, pets found in the aftermath of the tornado that tore through Oklahoma last week, have been given a new leash on life. The Oklahoma City Animal Care and Control Center almost reached capacity after the devastation, with many of the animals at the shelter facing risk of euthanasia. When PAWS volunteers personally drove hundreds of miles from Chicago to take in 75 cats and dogs, the Control Center animals were fortunately given a second chance. Continue reading below for more on the difficulties facing animals and shelters left in the tornado’s wake. — Global Animal   

(ANIMAL RESCUE) In the wake of one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history, Oklahoma residents are desperately trying to reach loved ones and find missing pets, livestock, and other animals. Although the storm missed areas with larger ranches, several smaller ranches were devastated. And while one woman's happy reunion with her dog has touched hearts nationwide, many animals remain stranded. Many agencies are lending their services and stepping up to help out however they can—whether by bringing in search dogs, collecting food for animals, or reuniting families with their four-legged loved ones. Global Animal is collecting donations for vetted animal rescue organizations working on the ground to help with medical costs for injured animals, boarding and food, as well as helping reunite pets with their families. — Global Animal

(ANIMAL RIGHTS) Recently, PETA released a video of a cruel animal testing practice at Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) called Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). In most universities, this procedure is performed on a simulator, but for some reason the antiquated system at WUSTL allows students to perform this traumatic procedure on nine live cats, and sometimes even up to 15 gruelling intubations per session. Following the release of PETA's video, animal activist and legendary game show host Bob Barker penned a letter to the school's chancellor with a very kind proposition. Read on to find out more on Bob's generous offer to WUSTL and see how you can help put an end to this animal cruelty. — Global Animal

(ANIMAL SHELTERS) Contrary to its claim to be a no-kill shelter, the Cattaraugus County SPCA in Olean, New York, is considered to be a perversion of no-kill by a number of former volunteers, board members, and concerned citizens. In fact, many are claiming the shelter is one of the more dangerous places for an animal to reside. Kelly Chaffee, former CCSPCA President and Board Member, has been quick to say that “the facility has been no-kill since 1985.” But many maintain that just because the animals are not euthanized at the shelter, does not mean that they are not emotionally and physically suffering. There is substantial proof regarding the neglect that these innocent animals suffer every single day. Animals at this facility are said to be confined in kennels for years, without socialization, veterinary care, or opportunities for placement into loving homes. Read on for more on this investigation and sign the petitions requesting reform. — Global Animal

(ANIMAL WELFARE) Recent undercover footage from animal rights group PETA has revealed a troubling practice at Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL). During a medical training exercise called Pediatric Advanced Life Support, students were asked to intubate cats. Most medical facilities use lifelike simulators for this practice but in WUSTL the cats are put through up to 15 gruelling intubations per session. Some cats even began to wake up during the procedure. PETA writes, "Of the more than 1,000 PALS training facilities, WUSTL appears to be the last facility in the country that is still abusing cats in the course, in defiance of modern science and ethics." Read on to learn why this practice is barbaric and unnecessary and find out what you can do to help. — Global Animal

(ANIMAL CRUELTY) Bulgaria's own Dr. Dolittle is being persecuted for helping stray animals. This twisted tale began last May when Dr. Georgi Litov found Borko, a stray puppy who was so badly beaten that his spinal column was severed. Horrified to have found a pup who was treated so heinously, the kind Bulgarian doctor filed a petition to the Regional Public Prosecutor's Office yet never received an acknowledgment from them. Ultimately, Dr. Litov decided to take Borko in and nurse him back to health. Continue reading for more on Borko and Dr. Litov's story. — Global Animal

(ANIMAL ACTIVISM) May is National Pet Month, and it's just around the corner! Luckily, Givebones knows just how to celebrate! Givebones is a charitable company committed to helping dogs in need. The goal of the compawssionate business "is to generate awareness and financial support in hopes of reducing the amount of homeless dogs being euthanized every year." Read on about Givebones, and find out how you can help our furry, four-legged friends. — Global Animal