Who is Benji?
Benji is your dog. Benji is my dog. But more than anything, Benji is every dog who will leave this earth without ever knowing the kindness, dignity, or love that all animals deserve.
Since 2011, Bailing Out Benji has been committed to ending the puppy mill industry through research, education, and advocacy. We are based in Ames, Iowa but our research and advocacy efforts span the entire country. We believe that an informed public is the most powerful force for change, and that people are fundamentally good: they just need the right information to make humane choices.
After researching this industry for the last 15 years, we have come to realize that it is a lot deeper and more nuanced than we initially realized. There are a lot of factors that cause puppy mills to exist and thrive and because of that it takes different strategies to create a lasting impact.
On top of our academic research which is referenced by teachers, policy makers, and advocates across the country, Bailing Out Benji is also a thought leader when it comes to upstream work and when it comes to creating systemic change in an industry that has historically rejected it. Occasionally we will write thoughtful pieces about our experience in the field. You can read some of those below:
My Amish ‘Puppy Mill’ Experience
We do this
Lead with research and data: Our team forensically audits USDA and state inspection records to give the public unbiased, accurate information. We also monitor puppy sales across the country, including to pet stores, brokers, rescues, dog auctions, and online websites.
Not that
Rely on shock value or graphic content to make our case. We believe that real change comes from following the data and the strategies that are supported by it.
We do this
Practice advocacy without pitchforks: We meet people where they are, including those within the industry who are working towards better welfare.
Not that
Assume everyone who buys a puppy or breeds dogs is the enemy. Lasting change comes from listening and finding common ground.
We do this
We study the affects of legislation or lack of regulation across the country in order to find the most impactful and strategic ways to help the dogs that exist in the commercial breeding system.
Not that
We don’t have lobbyists that work on legislation. When our research is used or referenced in those spaces, we try to make sure that it is represented accurately.
Staff
Alexis Bell is the Research Analyst for Bailing Out Benji. Alexis is an Iowa State University graduate who majored in Animal Science and minored in Philosophy and Political Science. She was first introduced to Bailing Out Benji through the ISU club “Students Helping Rescue Animals” after Mindi presented at one of their meetings. After hearing about the work BOB does, Alexis reached out to intern with BOB the summer before her senior year and then ended up joining the team full time after she graduated.
For questions about our research, you can contact Alexis at: abell@bailingoutbenji.com
Jalaine Crees is the Volunteer Outreach and Engagement Coordinator for Bailing Out Benji. Prior to joining the Bailing Out Benji team, Jalaine worked in childcare for ten years and has a degree in Early Childhood Education. She was first introduced to Bailing Out Benji after meeting Mindi at work! The two shared a deep passion for education and for animals and that continues to grow now that Jalaine has joined the Bailing Out Benji team!
For questions about volunteering with Bailing Out Benji or ways to support our nonprofit, you can contact Jalaine at: jcrees@bailingoutbenji.com
Kristen Petty is Bailing Out Benji’s Finance and Operations Director! Prior to joining the Bailing Out Benji team, Kristen worked for a children’s mental health nonprofit organization for 24 Years! She has always been active in our organization, both with gala planning and helping with our pet food pantry.
For questions about how to support our nonprofit, you can contact Kristen at: kpetty@bailingoutbenji.com
Mindi Callison
Founder, Executive Director
To learn more about Mindi and her journey with Bailing Out Benji, click here.
