For over a combined 30 years, we have been dedicated to combating animal abuse, each of us playing our part. Most recently, Paul is telling compelling stories on camera to raise awareness, and Janelle is working behind the scenes, managing petitions and outreach efforts, with one shared goal: Prosecute animal abusers.

Over the past year, we have maintained a continuous connection to discuss the overwhelming flood of abuse stories from various topics that were submitted for publication.

What do we do with all of this information? How do we know what to focus on? Animals don’t have rights. How do we fight the system? How do we tell the people about what is going on? 

It was during one of those brief, silent moments over the phone that it occurred to us to start broadcasting our conversations with other people, about what we know and the obstacles we face. We decided we would combine and discuss our stories to reach both of our audiences — to connect with more animal lovers, engage more advocates, and ultimately provide more help for animals.

Our experience with over 342 petitions and hundreds of videos published will expose the truth, uncover the real stories behind animal cruelty, highlight the rescue missions, and draw attention to the real people who are helping the animals.

And we will call it “The Animal Files.”

To create awareness of real animal abuse cases to help society understand the horror of their suffering and to emphasize the urgent truth: lasting change is long overdue and we need EVERYONES help.

To create a world where animals are treated with kindness, compassion and respect.

Our podcast focuses on dogs and cats, as they are the closest companions to humans and the most frequently reported abused animals—in that order.

In 2024, an estimated 89.7 million dogs and 73.8 million cats live in households across the United States, according to data from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

• Dog Ownership:

  • Total Dogs: ~89.7 million
  • Households with Dogs: ~59.8 million
  • Average Dogs per Household: 1.5

• Cat Ownership:

  • Total Cats: ~73.8 million
  • Households with Cats: ~42.2 million
  • Average Cats per Household: 1.8

These figures highlight the importance of our mission to protect and advocate for these beloved animals.

There are simply to many dogs and cats and not enough homes.

With over 30 years of combined experience advocating for animals, we will utilize our social media platforms and newsletters to promote our podcast to raise awareness and drive change.

We will share powerful stories of animals affected by cruelty, expose systemic failures, and highlight rescues to inspire action.

By collaborating with advocacy groups, encouraging petition signatures, and providing education on recognizing and reporting abuse, we will empower society to join our fight.

Through consistent, honest content and mobilizing support, we aim to create a world where animals are protected and respected.

Topics include, but not limited to:

• Hoarding
• Dogfighting
• Feral Cats
• Bad Rescue Organizations
• State Laws
• Animal Crushing
• The connection between domestic and animal abuse
• Animals and the court system
• Animal scams and donations
• The evil underground world of social media and animal fetishes.
• Animals in natural disasters
• TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) Programs
• Bad Groomers, Veterinarians, and Trainers
• Breeding
• Animal Testing / Labs

We will also highlight the people and organizations making a difference around the world, working tirelessly in their communities to help animals in need.

The Animal Files is a project of the Animal Victory Disaster and Abuse Fund—a non-profit dedicated to helping animals in crisis and disasters. Fortunately the mission of The Animal Files Podcast meets the criteria of their mission. Your tax-deductible donations are the only way we can fund the promotion of this podcast, highlighting systemic issues and failures that enable cruelty and shedding light on the urgent need for reform.

Approximately 65% of donations for this project will be allocated to small, credible, sustainable dog and cat rescue/rights organizations within the United States that lack a large platform to promote their work and receive funding. The remaining funds will support the podcast’s infrastructure and operations.  

Those looking for a tax deduction while supporting our podcast, along with hundreds of small dog and cat rescues, creates a beneficial situation for all.

The Animal Files will dedicate approximately 65% of its donations to helping dogs and cats. These donations or supplies will go to credible, sustainable small non profit dog and cat rescue/rights organizations, or individuals, who do not have a platform to promote their cause and receive funding. 

Aside from animals not having rights: 

The most common reason dogs and cats are abused is neglect, often stemming from owner ignorance, financial hardship, or apathy. For intentional abuse, perpetrators usually act out of a need for power and control, a displaced aggression, or due to severe mental health issues.

Reasons for neglect (passive abuse)

Neglect is the most widespread form of animal abuse and is often the result of an owner’s inability or unwillingness to provide basic care.

• Lack of awareness: Some pet owners are unaware of their pets’ fundamental needs, such as proper nutrition, socialization, and suitable living conditions. This can result in unintentional neglect.
• Financial strain: Economic hardship is a significant driver of neglect, particularly with the rising costs of pet food and veterinary care. Owners with limited resources may not be able to afford necessary medical treatments or even proper food.
• Changed life circumstances: Significant life changes can strain an owner’s ability to provide care. These can include job loss, divorce, a move to a new home that doesn’t allow pets, the birth of a baby, or the owner’s illness or death.
• Unwanted litters: Pet overpopulation resulting from unspayed or unneutered animals can lead to neglect and abandonment, as owners become overwhelmed and unable to care for all the animals properly.
• Boredom and indifference: In some cases, pets acquired on impulse are later viewed as a burden. The owner may lose interest in the animal, leading to boredom and inadequate care.

Reasons for intentional (active) abuse.

Intentional abuse involves deliberately inflicting pain and harm. These acts are often correlated with severe underlying issues in the abuser. 

• Mental health issues: Psychological disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder and conduct disorder, are strongly linked with animal abuse. A lack of empathy, high impulsivity, and low frustration tolerance are common traits among abusers.
• The link to domestic violence: Animal abuse is often a component of domestic violence. An abuser may harm or threaten a pet to intimidate, manipulate, and exert power and control over a human victim.
• Displaced aggression: A person who has been a victim of violence themselves may take out their hostility and aggression on a more vulnerable creature, such as a pet.
• Power and control: Abusing animals can give individuals a sense of power and dominance, especially if they feel powerless in other areas of their lives. This behavior can manifest as cruelty or as a means to establish dominance, such as in illegal dogfighting.
• Cruelty as a precursor to other violence: In some of the most serious cases, intentional abuse is a strong indicator of escalating violence. Many serial killers have a history of abusing animals as children.
• For entertainment or “amusement”: Some people harm animals for sadistic reasons or to impress others with their capacity for violence. Children, in particular, may harm animals out of curiosity or peer pressure. 

Updated September 29, 2025

Terms of Use for The Animal Files

Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using “The Animal Files” podcast, including our website and donation platform, you agree to abide by these Terms of Use. If you do not agree, please do not engage with our content or services.

Intellectual Property and Copyright

All content featured on The Animal Files, including articles, images, videos, music, and other media, is protected by copyright laws unless explicitly stated otherwise. We ensure that all content we use is either original, licensed, or appropriately credited to avoid any legal issues.

Users are strictly prohibited from copying, reproducing, distributing, or modifying any content from our platform without prior written permission. This includes images, videos, audio clips, or text.

If you are a creator and believe your copyrighted work has been used without permission, please contact us immediately. We are committed to respecting intellectual property rights and will promptly address any concerns or claims of copyright infringement.

By accessing and using The Animal Files, you agree that all content remains the intellectual property of its respective owners and must not be used without authorization.

User Conduct

We expect respectful behavior from all listeners. Harassment, hate speech, or abusive comments in our social media or communication channels will not be tolerated.

Hate Policy for The Animal Files

We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive community. Any form of hate speech, discrimination, harassment, or abusive behavior will not be tolerated.
Offending comments or behavior will be removed, and individuals may be banned from our platforms. Our goal is to promote compassionate dialogue and protect our community from harm.

Third-Party Content

Our podcast may include links or advertisements from third parties. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of third-party sites.

Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to update these Terms of Use at any time. Continued use of the podcast signifies agreement to the latest terms.

Liability Policy for The Animal Files

We are dedicated to providing accurate and helpful content but do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of all information shared.
Participants recognize that “The Animal Files” and its affiliates are not liable for any damages resulting from the use or misuse of the information presented.
By engaging with our content or donating, you agree to hold harmless “The Animal Files” and associated organizations from any claims or damages.

Liability Disclaimer for The Animal Files

The content provided by “The Animal Files” podcast, including episodes, blog posts, social media content, and any related materials, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. While we endeavor to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and completeness of such content, The Animal Files makes no warranties or representations of any kind, either express or implied, regarding:

• The accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content;
• The fitness for a particular purpose;
• The safety, availability, or security of the podcast and its related services;
• That the content is free from errors, inaccuracies, or omissions;
• That the content will be suitable or applicable to any individual’s specific circumstances; or
• That the operation of the podcast will be uninterrupted or error-free.

By engaging with or using the content of “The Animal Files,” you acknowledge and agree that your use is at your own risk. Under no circumstances shall “The Animal Files,” its affiliates, employees, volunteers, or partners be liable for any damages, including but not limited to, direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, punitive damages, or loss of profits arising out of or relating to:

• Your reliance on or use of the content, services, or website;
• Any inaccuracies or errors contained within the content;
• Any decisions made based on the information provided;
• Any damages resulting from issues such as service interruptions, loss of data, or security breaches.

This disclaimer is effective to the maximum extent permitted by law, including liability for gross negligence or willful misconduct, which cannot be waived.

Indemnification Clause for The Animal Files

By participating in, accessing, or supporting “The Animal Files” podcast and its related platforms, you agree to fully indemnify, defend, and hold harmless “The Animal Files,” its affiliates, employees, volunteers, partners, and the non-profit organization Animal Victory Disaster & Abuse Funds (EIN# 88-3617975) from and against all claims, damages, liabilities, losses, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) that arise from or in connection with:

• Your breach of these Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, or other policies governing your interaction with the podcast.
• Your illegal, negligent, or wrongful acts or omissions, including but not limited to any statements, content, or conduct that harms others.
• Any misuse or abuse of content, donations, or services provided.
• Any claims by third parties (including third-party content providers or affiliates) arising from your use or misuse of “The Animal Files” content or platform.
• Your participation in activities related to the podcast, including, but not limited to, sharing content, making donations, or engaging in community discussions.
• Any claims resulting from the violation of laws, including laws relating to animal welfare, privacy, or intellectual property.

This obligation to indemnify shall include, but is not limited to, the payment of all costs, damages, expenses, and attorney’s fees incurred by “The Animal Files” in defending any claims or actions.

You agree to cooperate fully with “The Animal Files” and its representatives in the defense of any claims. This indemnification obligation shall survive your use of the services and engagement with the podcast.

Privacy Policy for The Animal Files

Data Collection

We collect personal information such as your name, email, and donation details when you contact us, subscribe, or donate. We also collect data automatically, including IP addresses and device information from website visits.

Use of Data

Your information helps us process donations, send updates, improve our content, and enhance user experience.

Sharing Data

We do not sell or rent your personal data to third parties. We may share data with trusted partners, such as payment processors, only as necessary to fulfill services or comply with legal obligations.

Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies to collect usage data and personalize your experience. You can disable cookies through your browser settings.

Data Security

We employ industry-standard measures to protect your data from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure.

User Rights

You can request access to, correction, or deletion of your personal data by contacting us at info@animalvictoryfund.org

Third-Party Services

External services used for hosting, payment processing, and analytics may collect data. We require them to adhere to privacy standards but are not responsible for their practices.

Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or your data, contact us at info@animalvictoryfund.org 1319 Military Cutoff Road, Unit 101 Suite CC
Wilmington, NC 28403

Donation Policy for The Animal Files

• Tax Deductibility: All donations are tax-deductible as we partner with Animal Victory Disaster & Abuse Funds (EIN# 88-3617975).
• Use of Donations: Funds support the podcast infrastructure and ongoing efforts to help animals.
• Non-refundable: Donations are final and non-refundable.
• Receipts: Donation confirmations will be provided for tax purposes.
• Transparency: 100% of profits are donated to animal aid.
• Payment Security: Donations are processed securely through reputable providers.

By donating through the Animal Victory Disaster and Abuse Fund, you agree to abide by the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy outlined on their website:

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy

Your contribution helps support vital animal rescue efforts and advocacy work. Please note that all donations are voluntary and non-refundable.

Thank you for your support — by donating, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to adhere to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.