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

1. Singapore (MedicalXpress) Novel cancer therapy extends lives of terminally ill dogs, shows potential for use in human patients

   In Brief: In a groundbreaking initiative from the National University of Singapore (NUS), researchers are pioneering a novel cancer treatment using engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) that deliver targeted drug therapy directly to tumor sites in dogs and cats with advanced cancer stages. This innovative treatment has shown promising results, including full recovery and remission in many cases without significant side effects, owing to the precision with which these therapeutic cells operate within the tumor environment.

   This therapy involves MSCs engineered to seek out tumors and deliver a cancer-killing agent, specifically a 'kill-switch' mechanism that activates a potent drug within the tumor. This not only helps destroy the tumor cells but also induces a local immune response that helps in fighting the cancer. This approach offers a significant advantage over traditional chemotherapy by minimizing systemic toxicity.

   The research team, led by Associate Professor Too Heng-Phon, is now preparing to transition from successful animal trials to human clinical trials, with plans to treat patients with recurrent glioblastoma, a highly aggressive form of brain cancer. This transition to human trials is anticipated to start by the end of 2025, focusing on demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of this method in humans.

2. United States (Time Out) A pawsitively adorable exhibit about NYC's pets is coming to New-York Historical Society

   In Brief: The New-York Historical Society is hosting an enchanting exhibition titled "Pets and the City," which delves into the integral role pets have played in New York City's societal and cultural evolution. This exhibition, running from October 25, 2024, to April 27, 2025, utilizes a diverse range of artifacts from the museum's own collection, including photographs, memorabilia, and even film clips, to explore the dynamic relationship between New Yorkers and their pets through various historical periods.

   Highlights of the exhibition include an examination of pets in early American societies, showing their importance not only as companions but also as essential elements in Indigenous and early settler communities. The exhibit also explores the role of pets within the nuclear family, illustrating how domesticated animals helped ease the transition to urban living during New York City's development phases.

   As the exhibit progresses into the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it showcases how pets were used in commercial practices and transformed into merchandise. This section includes artifacts from the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and national cat shows, highlighting the commercial and entertainment value of pets.

3. China (VOA) Dog Weddings on the Rise in China

   In Brief: In a charming twist to traditional celebrations, pet weddings are gaining popularity in China, showcasing the deep affection owners hold for their furry companions. In a recent event in Shanghai, two golden retrievers, Bree and Bond, were "married" in a ceremony complete with all the trappings of a human wedding, including elegant attire, a wedding cake, and even custom marriage certificates.

   This trend highlights a broader societal shift towards lavish pet pampering, in a nation where many young people are delaying marriage and family plans. China saw its pet-related spending climb to $38.41 billion in 2023, reflecting a growing willingness among especially younger Chinese to invest heavily in the well-being and happiness of their pets.

   The ceremony for Bree and Bond was meticulously planned by their owners, Rye Ling and Gigi Chen, who, while not rushing into marriage themselves, saw no reason why their pets shouldn't enjoy a celebration of their bond. The event included professional photographers and a specially made cake topped with figures resembling the canine couple.

   Such pet weddings may seem extravagant, but they underscore a significant cultural trend where pets are increasingly regarded as integral family members. This movement is supported by a robust pet industry that caters to a diverse array of needs, from everyday care to special occasions like weddings, indicating a promising growth area in the pet care market.

   This phenomenon is not just about the celebrations but also reflects deeper social dynamics, including changing perspectives on family and personal fulfillment. As this trend continues, it is likely to spur further innovations and investments in pet-centric services and products.

4. United Kingdom (Animal Legal Defense Fund) Pet Abduction Bill Becomes Law in England and Northern Ireland

   In Brief: The new Pet Abduction Act 2024 in England and Northern Ireland represents a significant step forward in animal welfare legislation by making the abduction of companion animals a specific crime. This law marks a departure from previous legislation where the abduction of pets was treated under the Theft Act 1968 as a property crime. Now, the emotional impact on the animal, as well as their guardian, is acknowledged, emphasizing the recognition of animals as sentient beings capable of experiencing distress.

   This legislation was influenced by the UK's Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act of 2022, which codified the recognition of animal sentience and established an Animal Sentience Committee to ensure government policies consider animal welfare. The Pet Abduction Act moves beyond the traditional view of animals as mere property and addresses their well-being and experiences directly.

   The creation of this act followed recommendations from the Pet Theft Taskforce, established in response to a rise in pet theft during the pandemic. The Taskforce advocated for a legal distinction between pet theft and other forms of property theft, highlighting the need for laws that acknowledge the unique status of animals as sentient beings, not just property.

5. United States (The Botanical Bar) How to Keep Your Houseplants Safe from Cats and Dogs

   In Brief: To keep houseplants safe from cats and dogs, consider several strategies: select non-toxic, pet-friendly plants; place plants out of pets' reach using high shelves, hanging planters, or window ledges; create a plant terrarium for added protection; use deterrents like citrus peels or pepper; provide alternative entertainment such as cat grass or chew toys to distract pets; train pets with commands and rewards to stay away from plants; and use physical barriers like plant cages or baby gates. Additionally, consider setting up an outdoor garden if indoor protection proves challenging. These steps help balance the coexistence of pets and plants in a shared living space.