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

1. United States (USA Today) It's National Kitten Day! Watch the cutest collection of kitten tales

   In Brief: On National Kitten Day, celebrated annually on July 10, cat enthusiasts across the United States are reminded of the charm and playfulness of kittens. With over 95 million cats owned in the U.S., cats are notably more popular than dogs. Despite their popularity, many kittens remain unadopted in shelters, by roadsides, or in the wild. National Kitten Day, founded by animal advocate Colleen Paige—who also established National Dog Day and National Wildlife Day—aims to raise awareness about the situation of these abandoned kittens. The day encourages the adoption of kittens from shelters and rescue organizations to reduce the number of homeless cats and promote responsible pet ownership.

2. United States (New York Post) Puppy love? Why haute honeymoons are bringing along dogs

   In Brief: More couples are opting to include their furry friends in every part of their life, including haute honeymoons. Travel agents and hotel managers have noted a trend where newlyweds bring their dogs along for their post-wedding getaways, extending the practice of including pets in wedding ceremonies. Angela Beer, who incorporated her dogs into her wedding and honeymoon at New Zealand's Huka Lodge, exemplifies this trend. This pet-friendly approach to travel is supported by luxury pet services like grooming and bespoke outfits, ensuring that dogs are as pampered as their owners. High-end hotels like Carneros Resort & Spa now offer pet amenities like dog parks and agility equipment, making them ideal for pet-inclusive honeymoons. However, travelers with pets need to be aware of quarantine laws and airline policies, which can vary significantly by destination.

3. United Kingdom (BBC) Therapy dogs helping police officers and staff

   In Brief: In Devon and Cornwall, police officers and staff can now seek emotional support from therapy dogs as part of the national OK9 scheme. This initiative, which took three years to establish, involves therapy dogs owned by their handlers who cover all associated costs. The dogs, such as Bertie and Darcy who wear special vests and have their own warrant cards, help provide comfort during difficult shifts, public events, and sensitive situations like inquests. Handler Cathy Veale highlighted the non-judgmental nature of the dogs, which helps in opening up discussions about mental well-being with staff and the public.

4. United States (Mashable) 'House of the Dragon' Season 2, episode 4: Pay attention to the dogs at Harrenhal

   In Brief: In "House of the Dragon" Season 2, Episode 4, significant symbolism unfolds at Harrenhal, particularly surrounding Daemon Targaryen's visions. The three dogs in Daemon's vision represent the sigil of House Clegane, established by a kennelmaster who saved Lord Tytos Lannister from a lion. This house is notably associated with Ser Gregor ("The Mountain") and Sandor Clegane ("The Hound").

   Additionally, Daemon spots a black goat, hinting at Vargo Hoat, a character known as "The Goat" who betrays the Lannisters in the "Game of Thrones" series. This goat, standing amidst chopped wood, symbolizes the brutal fate that Vargo meets—being served as roast goat by Gregor Clegane. These visions are ominous, foretelling misfortunes associated with Harrenhal and its historical curse. The episode interweaves these sigils and symbols to enrich the narrative and hint at future events, reflecting deeper themes of fate and foreboding in the series.

5. Israel (The Jerusalem Post) The connection between dogs and home design: Discover bone street

   In Brief: In Israel, the burgeoning pet industry sees about 250 new pet-related businesses each year, a testament to the country's growing love for dogs, which are integral to families just as much as any human member. In a unique fusion of pet care and home aesthetics, Bone Street has emerged as a pivotal player, offering a range of high-end products that blend seamlessly into home design while providing practical benefits for pets and their owners.

   Bone Street differentiates itself by sourcing products that are not only functional but are designed with an eye for style and sustainability, pulling from top global markets including Germany, Italy, England, New York, and Los Angeles. These products range from organic grooming supplies to stylish, eco-friendly pet furniture that enhances any home’s decor. Roni Grossman, the founder of Bone Street, emphasizes that the products are chosen for their superior design, health benefits, and their ability to integrate into daily living spaces elegantly.

   This approach not only elevates the standard of products available in Israel’s pet market but also reflects a broader trend where pets are considered central to family life, deserving of the same quality and consideration as any other family member.