The Best Pet Daily Round-up of News, Research, Opinion or Fun published about Dogs and Cats from around the world:

1. Hong Kong (Insurance Asia) New pet critical illness cover introduced in Hong Kong

   In Brief: OneDegree, a virtual insurance company in Hong Kong, has enhanced its Pet CEO Plan by introducing a unique pet critical illness supplementary protection, a first in the region. This new coverage, available to pets of any age and breed, costs an annual fee of $14.40 (NT$480) and includes a 25% discount currently. The plan’s annual compensation limit has been increased to $3,000 (NT$100,000). The supplementary protection covers conditions like epilepsy, quadriplegia, and dislocated patella, and offers a one-time cash benefit of 10,000 yuan, usable without restrictions but claimable only once per pet's lifetime. This addition has proved popular, with over 60% of new Pet CEO Plan customers opting for this coverage initially, and 30% choosing it by the end of its first month.

2. United States (ABC7News) 'My boy is home': French Bulldog returned to owner after extortion attempt; 2 men arrested

   In Brief: Yurman, was returned after a distressing week of absence. Yurman was taken from Brown at gunpoint on June 30th. The Metropolitan Police Department successfully recovered him following an undercover operation that led to the arrest of two individuals, Raphael Lambert Loundermon II and Khaliah Johnson, on charges of extortion and receiving stolen property. The reunion was emotional for Brown, who has since started a Facebook platform to help others keep their French Bulldogs safe. The search continues for the initial perpetrator, with police seeking information on a suspect caught on a surveillance camera.

3. Canada (Vancouver Island Free Daily) Vancouver Island animal lover helps aging dogs find love

   In Brief: In Victoria, Vicky Michaels has become a beacon of support for aging dogs through her leadership with ElderDog, a Canada-wide organization dedicated to helping elderly people and their pets. After losing her beloved dog, Hopi, Michaels filled the void by volunteering, and now practically works full-time hours without pay as a Pawd leader. ElderDog Victoria, under Michaels' leadership, offers comprehensive support including emergency fostering, grooming, and dog walking, focusing on the animals' welfare as primary clients. The organization, recognizing the older demographic of Vancouver Island, is continually expanding its services and volunteer base to meet high demand, ensuring no senior or their dog goes without necessary care.

4. United States (NBC6 South Florida) Busting 4 pet adoption myths as South Florida animal shelters face overcrowding

   In Brief: As South Florida animal shelters face critical overcrowding, it's important to challenge the myths surrounding pet adoption. Annette Jose, director of Miami-Dade County Animal Services, clarifies these misconceptions to encourage more people to adopt. Here are four common myths debunked:

   1. Purebred Availability: Shelters often have a variety of breeds, including sought-after ones like Goldendoodles and Huskies. Patience is key, as these breeds do appear in shelters over time.

   2. Age of Animals: The notion that only old animals are available is false. Many shelters have young animals, especially since spay and neuter services were interrupted by the pandemic, leading to an increase in puppies and kittens.

   3. Health Concerns: While shelter animals can be exposed to diseases like upper respiratory infections, they are treated immediately with vaccines and medications. Adopted pets come with continued veterinary support to ensure they recover fully.

   4. Behavioral Issues: Shelter animals are assessed by staff and volunteers to understand their behavioral temperament. This information helps potential adopters find a pet that matches their lifestyle and environment. Shelters also provide training and behavioral support to ease the transition to a new home.

   Miami-Dade shelters currently house many dogs needing homes, significantly exceeding their capacity. By adopting or fostering, community members can make a substantial difference. The shelters offer various programs to facilitate this, including temporary fostering and "Pawventures," which allow people to spend a day with a pet outside the shelter environment.

5. United States (YourCentralValley.com) Kitten stuck in Sanger sewage line for 2 days rescued

   In Brief: In Sanger, California, a dramatic rescue unfolded when a kitten, frightened by Fourth of July fireworks, became trapped in a 3.5-inch sewage pipe. Despite initial unsuccessful attempts by firefighters and animal control, the kitten was saved after a two-day ordeal. Kyle Kirkland of the Kirkland Foundation orchestrated the rescue, utilizing innovative methods including a camera feed from Roto-Rooter plumbing to locate and retrieve the kitten. The sounds of mother cats calling were played to coax the kitten closer, allowing rescuers to finally pull it to safety. The emotional rescue, likened to a scene from "The Lion King," with four grown men close to tears (of happiness!), ended with plans for the kitten to be adopted along with its sibling by the resident who discovered it.