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

1. Turkey (New Lines Magazine) A Culling Plan Unifies Turkey’s Dog Lovers

   In Brief: In Turkey, a governmental proposal to control stray dogs by capturing and euthanizing them has sparked widespread opposition. Thousands in Istanbul protested, reflecting a deep cultural appreciation for stray animals. This plan, driven by concerns over public safety and health, such as rabies, has met strong resistance from various groups and the Veterinary Association, advocating for vaccination over culling. The debate highlights broader societal tensions and marks a shift in how animal rights are perceived in Turkish politics, transcending typical partisan divides.

2. United States (AKC / PR NewsWire) Dogs Descend On New York City With AKC® Meet The Breeds

   In Brief: The American Kennel Club (AKC) announces the return of "Meet the Breeds®" to the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City on January 25-26, 2025. Sponsored by Purina Pro Plan, this event is the largest educational dog showcase in the U.S., offering families the chance to interact with hundreds of dogs, learn about responsible pet ownership, and find the right breed for their lifestyle. Last year's event attracted over 30,000 visitors. The event will feature interactive games, breed exhibitions, and expert talks on canine care and training. For more details, visit the AKC's official website.

3. United States (CPR News) MDMA for dogs? 4 ideas (and one big concern) from CU Denver’s new psychedelic research center

   In Brief: The University of Colorado Denver has launched a new Center for Psychedelic Research, exploring the potential benefits and effects of psychedelics in medicine. Directed by neuroscientist Jim Grigsby, the center aims to investigate various uses of psychedelics, including MDMA for treating trauma in dogs and the potential for psychedelics to boost neurogenesis and reduce inflammation. The center is also involved in a study using psilocybin to help individuals confront cancer diagnoses. Additionally, it will address legal and social implications of Colorado’s psychedelic policies. Despite promising prospects, researchers face challenges like conducting double-blind studies due to the recognizable effects of psychedelics, complicating placebo control and potentially affecting study validity.

4. South Africa (SA People) What are the expenses of owning a pet in South Africa?

   In Brief: Dogster's recent report highlights the financial aspects of pet ownership in South Africa, noting that nearly 45% of adults have pets. The initial year of owning a pet can be particularly costly, with expected veterinary expenses ranging from R30,000 to R60,000 (about $1,856 to $3,712), and emergency surgeries potentially costing around R25,000 ($1,546). Despite these high costs, only 1% of pets in South Africa are insured, suggesting that pet insurance is still not commonly adopted, though it could provide substantial financial relief. The demand for pet-friendly rentals is increasing, with 7% of tenants looking for accommodations that welcome pets. This indicates a more accommodating environment for pet owners looking to rent. The statistics emphasize the importance of budgeting for veterinary costs and considering pet insurance as part of responsible pet ownership.

5. United Kingdom (The Telegraph) ‘We got a £24,000 vet bill – and our husky still died’

   In Brief: A family in the UK faced a tragic situation when their husky, Kia, underwent a minor procedure to clean her paw but then experienced a rapid decline in health, resulting in her death and leaving the family with a £24,000 vet bill. This case has occurred amidst broader scrutiny, as the Competition and Markets Authority investigates vet pricing following numerous private equity deals. The family has filed a complaint with Willows Veterinary Centre, suggesting Kia may have contracted a hospital-acquired infection. The steep vet bills have led many families into debt, with a significant increase in debt collection for unpaid veterinary bills reported. The family expressed their distress over the financial and emotional strain, emphasizing the challenge of coping with such high costs for many pet owners. Medivet and Vets4Pets, where initial treatments were conducted, have responded differently to the situation. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about veterinary costs and the impact on families.