What’s Making Global Cat and Dog News Today?
The Best Pet Daily Round-up of News, Research, Opinion or Fun published about Dogs and Cats from around the world:
United States (DVM360) Veterinary college launches clinical trial to treat cardiac tumors in dogs
In Brief: In a groundbreaking initiative, the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island is launching a clinical trial to explore a new treatment for cardiac tumors in dogs. This trial involves using propranolol, a medication typically prescribed for children with certain heart conditions, to see if it can effectively treat similar tumors in canines.
Why Propranolol? Propranolol is known for its success in treating hemangiomas in infants by slowing the heart rate, which eases the heart's workload and improves blood flow. Dr. Abigail Martin, a cardiology resident at AVC, highlights the medication's potential, noting the limited treatment options currently available for canine cardiac tumors. These options often lead to difficult end-of-life discussions for pet owners.
Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment Cardiac tumors in dogs are particularly challenging as they often go undiagnosed until severe symptoms, such as fluid accumulation around the heart, manifest. These symptoms, which can include neurological signs and lethargy, typically appear when the disease has already progressed significantly, making effective treatment even more crucial.
United States (Inverse) You Are Probably Using Your Dog’s Crate Wrong — Here’s What A Veterinarian Would Do
In Brief: For many dog owners, a crate is as essential as food and water. However, experts like Carlo Siracusa from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, suggest we might be using them all wrong. Siracusa, a veterinarian and animal behavior specialist, debunks the common belief that dogs are naturally drawn to crates as safe spaces, a notion falsely derived from their wild ancestors.
Crates Are Not Natural Dens Unlike their wild counterparts, domestic dogs do not view crates as inherent safe zones. Wild dogs and wolves have the freedom to enter and exit their dens at will—a luxury not afforded to a dog in a locked crate. This freedom is crucial for their perception of safety, which is distorted when crates are misused by owners.
The Psychological Impact of Misuse Using a crate as a punishment tool can have lasting negative effects. Psychological studies indicate that dogs struggle to associate their behavior with being placed in a crate as a corrective action. This misuse can prevent the crate from ever becoming a safe space for them.
Creating a True Safe Haven To transform a crate into a sanctuary, Siracusa recommends equipping it with comfortable bedding and water, and importantly, leaving the door open to allow voluntary exploration. This setup can encourage a dog to seek refuge in the crate during stressful situations by fostering positive associations.
Ideal Placement Matters Where you place the crate can significantly affect how your dog perceives it. Siracusa advises positioning it in a spot that is integrated yet distinct from high-traffic areas—like a quiet corner of the living room or kitchen. This allows the dog to observe household activities without being in the midst of them, providing a sense of involvement yet peace.
Ultimately, understanding and respecting individual preferences is key. While some dogs may benefit from the security of a crate, others might find it restrictive. Recognizing and adapting to your dog’s unique needs can ensure that a crate serves its purpose effectively—providing comfort rather than confinement.
United Kingdom (RSPCA) Kindness Index Report 2024
In Brief: The sixteenth section of the 2024 Kindness Index Report emphasizes the rising financial pressures faced by pet owners. It highlights that 78% of owners have noticed an increase in pet care costs over the past year, with younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, feeling the strain the most. This financial stress is also linked to a growing number of pet owners regretting their decision, with the rate of regret rising from 13% in 2023 to 15% in 2024. The report calls for more support to alleviate the cost burden on pet owners and improve animal welfare.
United States (PBS) Cats like to play fetch like dogs. The game is rooted in both species’ hunting instincts
In Brief: A recent study has uncovered that fetching, a behavior typically associated with dogs, is also quite popular among cats. This intriguing behavior, which combines elements of predatory and social instincts, is enjoyed by both species more than previously recognized.
Cross-Species Play: Cats Join the Fetch Fun While 80% of dogs are known to engage in fetching, a significant 40% of cats also participate, according to the latest research. This activity, often seen as a playful extension of their natural hunting behaviors, has cats and dogs alike retrieving everything from traditional toys to unexpected items like bottle caps and shoes.
Instincts at Play Cats and dogs, though different in their domestication and natural behaviors, share an underlying predatory nature that makes fetching an appealing activity. Dogs, historically bred to assist in hunting by retrieving prey, and cats, with their stalk-and-pounce tactics, both find elements of their hunting behaviors stimulated by fetching activities.
A Surprising Discovery Researchers were intrigued to find that many cats initiate fetch themselves, without any training. This self-starting aspect of cat fetching challenges the notion that cats are merely solitary creatures, instead highlighting their capacity for social interaction with humans.
Behavioral Insights The study also noted that gender, age, and health play roles in an animal's propensity to fetch. Male cats and dogs are more inclined to fetch, while older animals or those with health issues are less likely. Additionally, the presence of another dog in the household seems to decrease the likelihood of fetching among both cats and dogs.
Breed Matters Among dogs, breeds known for their responsiveness and toy interest, like German Shepherds and Retrievers, are most likely to fetch. Interestingly, breed differences also exist among cats, with Siamese and Bengals showing a higher likelihood to engage in fetching.
Fetching as a Social Connector The findings from this study highlight the complex nature of cat and dog behavior and their ability to form bonds with humans through shared activities like fetching. This not only challenges the stereotypes of aloof cats but also enriches our understanding of the social capabilities of our pet companions.
Conclusion This study not only sheds light on fetching as a shared behavioral trait between dogs and cats but also emphasizes the role of humans in enhancing the pet-human bond through interactive play. Whether your pet is a cat or a dog, fetching might just be a fun way to deepen your connection with your furry friend.
United States (Woman’s Day) 19 Things You Should Do to Be a Better Dog Owner
In Brief: A comprehensive guide to dog ownership highlights 19 essential tips to enhance your relationship with your furry friend. Here are the top five practices every dog owner should consider:
Create a Comfortable Living Space: Ensuring your dog has a secure and cozy place of their own within your home, such as a well-designed crate, provides them with a necessary retreat for rest and relaxation.
Feed Nutrient-Dense Meals: Nutrition is as crucial for pets as it is for humans. Consulting with a vet to find the best diet for your dog's age, size, and activity level can lead to a healthier and happier life.
Engage in Regular Mental Enrichment: Mental stimulation through puzzles and interactive toys can prevent boredom, reduce anxiety, and improve overall behavior.
Maintain Oral Health: Regular dental care prevents serious health issues and can extend your dog's life. Daily brushing and dental chews play a key role in maintaining good oral hygiene.
Prioritize Physical Exercise: Adequate physical activity tailored to your dog’s specific needs is vital for their physical and mental health. Regular exercise helps with weight management and behavioral issues.
Adopting these practices not only improves the quality of life for your dog but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet, making you a better dog owner.