Did you know that PETA did some wonderful things in 2011 that you probably didn't read about in the newspapers? I do—because I've read PETA's latest annual report, and you can too. Here's a sample of the interesting stuff that you'll find in just the "Year in Numbers" section alone:

©iStockphoto/ Andrew Helwich

• PETA's SNIP and ABC clinics spayed and neutered more than 11,000 animals.
• More than 40 million people visited PETA's websites.
• More than 650,000 free vegetarian/vegan starter kits were sent out by PETA.
• PETA's Communications Department booked upward of 4,500 media interviews.
• More than 300 free doghouses were built and delivered—and 1,200 bales of straw were bagged—to give shelter and warmth to dogs forced to live outdoors.
• PETA's International Grassroots Campaign Department helped organize nearly 1,500 demonstrations.
• The amount of free advertising space secured by PETA was worth more than 1.5 million dollars.

There's lots more to learn—but check it out for yourself. And if you want to be a part of a record-breaking 2012, there's no better time to join us than right now!

As temperatures across the nation start to plummet, we're releasing our new "Cold Dog" public service announcement (PSA) starring Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs and his very dapper canine friend, 99.

There's no question that dogs who are stuck on chains or in backyard pens suffer from isolation, boredom, and loneliness year-round, but winter's snow, ice, and frigid temperatures pile even more anguish onto their bleak existences—and put them in danger as well.

Why is Lance inspired to draw attention to the plight of neglected dogs? In PETA's exclusive interview, he says, "One of the responsibilities, I believe, for not only football players but celebrities alike is to be able to give back … to not only to where you come from but to those that you love, you know, and animals are a big part of that."

Can the animals count on you to give back too? Honor the animals who have given you so much love by asking your local television station to air PETA's new ad—it might very well inspire others in your area to rescue dogs from the bitter cold. And be sure to check out Lance's print ad and share his new "Cold Dog" PSA with your friends and neighbors.  

Comment below by December 30 and tell us how you're going to be a dog's biggest defender and win a synthetic football autographed by Lance. Winner will be chosen January 3. Be sure to read our privacy policy and terms and conditions, as you're agreeing to both by commenting. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. Good luck!

Written by Karin Bennett

Summer hasn't even officially kicked off, but the folks at the Today show were talking Thanksgiving this morning—or, rather, discussing PETA's Thanksgiving Day public service announcement (PSA), which was just named one of the "Best Commercials of the Year" by the Association of Independent Commercial Producers (AICP).

As AICP President and CEO Matt Miller noted, many networks refused to air PETA's PSA—in which an adorable young lady educates her family about the violence on turkey factory farms—but the Today show coverage ensured that millions of viewers saw and heard our "potent message" (Matt Lauer's words).

Curious and caring Today show viewers who are compelled to educate themselves about how turkeys are abused on factory farms and in slaughterhouses just might opt for Tofurky on Thanksgiving Day.

Written by Karin Bennett