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:
Hong Kong (The South China Morning Post) Pet smuggling from mainland China may have contributed to Hong Kong increase in dumped cats
In Brief: Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals highlights 11 per cent increase in cats handed year on year. An increase in pet smuggling into Hong Kong from mainland China could be partly to blame for the leap in the number of abandoned cats taken in by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) a spokesperson claimed.
Australia (Nine Honey) Three foods cats shouldn't eat even though they're not toxic to them
In Brief: While cats can eat certain human foods without immediate harm, there are three common foods they should not consume regularly, even though they're not toxic. First, dog food, while not poisonous, lacks the necessary amino acids like taurine that cats, as obligate carnivores, need from their meat-rich diet. Regular consumption could lead to severe nutritional deficiencies. Second, broccoli, safe in small doses, can cause digestive issues for cats and should be offered sparingly and cooked. Lastly, while a tiny bit of pineapple won’t harm a cat, its high sugar content and low nutritional value for cats make it an unsuitable treat.
United States (Psychology Today) City Pets: The Riveting Life of a House-Call Veterinarian
In Brief: In her book "Pets and the City," New York City veterinarian Dr. Amy Attas shares heartwarming and humorous stories from her three decades of making house calls to treat the city's pets. The book offers insights into the deep bonds between people and their pets, reflecting on both the joys and challenges of her profession. Dr. Attas was inspired to become a veterinarian by the book "All Creatures Great and Small," and aims to inspire others by detailing her experiences and the profound impact pets have on human lives. Her unique narrative also explores overcoming professional obstacles, including gender biases in veterinary science, and emphasizes the emotional and sometimes physical support she provides to pet owners during her visits.
United States (CNN) Nip and tuck surgeries for dogs and cats are more than cosmetic. Here’s why
In Brief: In a recent report by CNN, surgeries commonly perceived as cosmetic for pets, like "nip and tuck" procedures, are highlighted as crucial for their health and well-being. The story centers on Hamilton, an English Bulldog who suffered intense pain due to his inward-rolling eyelids, a condition corrected by what humans would call cosmetic surgery. Such surgeries, far from being merely aesthetic, address debilitating discomfort and prevent potential blindness, particularly in breeds with specific facial structures. Dr. Dana Varble, Chief Veterinary Officer, emphasizes the surgeries' importance in preventing corneal scars and enhancing life quality. The report also notes the scarcity of veterinary ophthalmologists, which complicates timely care for pets, although organizations like the North American Veterinary Community are working to train general vets to handle basic eye conditions to bridge this gap. The takeaway for pet owners is the importance of recognizing signs of eye distress and seeking immediate veterinary care to maintain their pets' health.
Thailand (Nation Thailand) Airport Rail Link allows pets to ride the trains beginning today
In Brief: Starting today, the Airport Rail Link is welcoming pets aboard its trains. Passengers can now travel with their dogs, cats, fish, and birds, provided the animals are contained within cages or bags. To accommodate pet owners, specific carriages have been designated for those traveling with their animals. The service is available during limited hours on weekdays, from 10 am to 3 pm and from 8 pm to midnight, but extends to all day on weekends. Each passenger is allowed one pet carrier, which must adhere to size restrictions and cannot weigh more than 10 kilograms. Additionally, carriers must be held at all times during the journey and cannot occupy seating spaces.
