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 (Bloomberg) Pet Care Industry Is Dreaming of Dog and Cat Ozempic
In Brief: In the rapidly evolving GLP-1 market, pet health is becoming the new frontier. Companies like Okava Pharmaceuticals and Better Choice Co Inc are steering towards anti-obesity treatments for pets, mimicking successful weight-loss drugs for humans. Despite concerns from some veterinarians about the approach and the effectiveness of these treatments, the industry sees potential in leveraging human drug success for animal health, especially given the high rates of pet obesity. However, the challenge remains in convincing pet owners to recognize and treat their pets' obesity as a serious health issue.
United States (ABC4.com) Pets can get heat stroke, too. But some breeds are more at risk
In Brief: As temperatures soar to triple digits in Salt Lake City, pet owners are urged to be vigilant about the risks of heat stroke in their animals, particularly for certain breeds. Breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers (often referred to as brachycephalic breeds), known for their flat faces and shorter nasal passages, struggle more with cooling themselves as they can only pant to regulate body temperature. Some cat breeds are also considered brachycephalic (including Bermese, Persian and Himalayan). Symptoms of heat stroke in pets include heavy panting, drooling, and weakness, leading potentially to fatal outcomes. The Humane Society of Utah emphasizes the danger, especially when pets are left in hot cars—a situation that has led to numerous pet deaths and rescues. Pet owners are advised to avoid midday heat for walks, provide ample shade and water, and consider cooling treats like "pupsicles" to help manage the risk.
United States (TheDodo.com) Pets Drive Everything About Millennial And Gen Z Spending
In Brief: The influence of pets on millennials and Gen Z extends far beyond companionship, deeply affecting their lifestyle and financial decisions. A recent poll by The Dodo reveals that 90% of pet parents consider their pets central to their lives, influencing home setups, travel plans, and even financial strategies. Nearly half see pet ownership as a significant adult responsibility, prioritizing their pet's well-being in every aspect of life, from choosing pet-friendly living spaces to planning vacations. This trend underscores the profound role pets play in shaping the personal and financial landscapes of younger generations.United States (LitHub.com) Kill the Pet, Kill the Book’s Rating: The Perils of Writing Dogs in Fiction
In Brief: Clare Pooley explores the deep emotional connection between readers and canine characters in literature, highlighting the backlash authors can face when a beloved dog character meets a tragic end in their stories. In her article, Pooley reflects on her own experiences with reader reactions to the fate of a fictional dog, Keith, from her debut novel, revealing that many readers expressed profound concern for the character's well-being. This concern is echoed across the literary world, where the death of a dog often leads to negative reviews and diminished ratings, as readers feel particularly betrayed when harm comes to these innocent and empathetic characters. Pooley advises authors to tread carefully when considering the fate of animal characters in their books and suggests that concerned readers check resources like doesthedogdie.com to avoid emotional distress.United Kingdom (MNR Journal) Bath Cats and Dogs Home offer Animal Welfare Education Programme to local schools
In Brief: Bath Cats and Dogs Home is actively addressing the animal rescue crisis by launching a free Animal Welfare Education Programme for primary schools in the Bath, North East Somerset, and Wiltshire areas. The initiative, which emerged in response to a 12% increase in rescue pet intakes and a significant drop in dog adoptions, aims to educate young students about the five essential welfare needs of pets. Through these workshops, the charity hopes to instill a sense of responsibility in future generations, potentially reducing the number of pets surrendered to rescue centers.
United Kingdom (The Guardian) Deals on food and homemade toys: seven ways to cut the cost of cat ownership
In Brief: Harriet Meyer offers practical advice for reducing the costs associated with cat ownership. While the average lifetime expense for a cat can exceed £11,100, Meyer suggests several strategies to manage these costs effectively. Key tips include selecting less expensive cat breeds or adopting from shelters, securing comprehensive pet insurance early, and opting for budget-friendly food options. Additionally, she recommends DIY approaches such as making homemade cat toys and treats, buying secondhand pet accessories, and considering alternative solutions for pet care expenses like veterinary costs and cat litter. These strategies can significantly alleviate the financial burden of caring for a cat.
China (UPI.com) Skateboarding cat breaks speed record in China
In Brief: In an impressive display of agility and skill, Bao Zi, an American shorthair cat, has set a new Guinness World Record in China for the fastest 10 meters on a skateboard, covering the distance in just 12.85 seconds. Initially brought home to deal with a rodent issue, Bao Zi's owner, professional dog trainer Li Jiangtao, discovered the cat's unique talent for skateboarding. Despite the challenges of training a cat, Jiangtao nurtured Bao Zi's interest, leading to this record-breaking achievement at only 1 year and 8 months old. Inspired by Bao Zi's success, Jiangtao has now expanded his training expertise to include cats, specializing in teaching them to use and flush toilets.
