Animal Rescue (Syndicated)

Hosted by journalist Alex Paen, Emmy-nominated series ANIMAL RESCUE introduces viewers to heroic volunteers and specialists who have gone to great lengths to save and treat animals in various perils -- including oil spills, fishing nets, natural disasters, and everyday household accidents like ingesting cleaning chemicals. The featured folks share their stories with viewers and call attention to the world of animal rescue agencies, including shelters, preservation organizations, and some veterinary clinics. The result is a series that's both exciting and heartwarming, as well as full of insightful animal safety tips.

Animal Rescue challenges viewers to consider what they would do in a similar situation and incorporates concerns about what changes to the environment mean for the survival of endangered species. It's a given that some of the stories will pull on viewers' heartstrings, but there's a lot here for the whole family to learn, too.

Some aspects of the show -- particularly footage of animals in distress -- might upset younger or more sensitive kids. But the chance to "visit" exotic animals in their native environments is appealing, and the show's message -- that our decisions as humans affect the fate of the animal kingdom -- is always important to hear.