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 Kingdom (BBC) Cats nominated for supporting veteran and daughter
In Brief: Katy and Lucy, two sibling cats, have been nominated for the 2024 Cats Protection National Awards for their remarkable support to a D-Day veteran and his daughter. The cats were lifelong companions to William Laing and moved with him to a care home in his final months. After his passing, they continued to provide comfort to his daughter, Alyson Laing, in Milford, Surrey. Alyson shared how the cats helped her cope with grief and health challenges, highlighting their enduring presence and emotional support. Despite their own health issues, including Lucy's tail amputation and Katie's arthritis, they continue to bring joy and comfort to Alyson. The winner of the contest will be determined by public vote.
United States (PetSmart Charities / PR NewsWire) PetSmart Charities Study Shows the Secret to Finding Love is a Kitten
In Brief: PetSmart Charities, in partnership with "Millionaire Matchmaker" Patti Stanger, is capitalizing on the rising trend of cat adoptions, especially evident during kitten season, by launching a campaign to help singles find love through cat ownership. Their study revealed that 75% of singles are disillusioned with dating apps, yet 71% of Gen Z would be more inclined to date a cat owner, associating cat ownership with desirable traits like fun and intelligence. During National Adoption Week, PetSmart Charities encourages adopting a cat as a strategy to enhance dating prospects. The initiative includes a contest where one lucky single can win personal relationship coaching from Patti Stanger to further boost their chances of finding a romantic connection.
United Kingdom (The Verge) The UK will start feeding lab-grown meat to pets this year
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.
United States (Florida Politics) Man pleads not guilty to animal cruelty after leaving puppies at Disney Springs parking garage
In Brief: A man, Wilson Nieves Cortes, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of felony animal cruelty after allegedly leaving puppies in a hot car at Disney Springs, Orlando, while he dined. The incident, which occurred on May 4, involved four young puppies left in a car for two hours, resulting in one being euthanized due to critical condition. Despite the moderate weather, with temperatures around 77 degrees Fahrenheit and 77% humidity, the situation proved fatal for one of the puppies. Nieves Cortes, who had recently purchased the puppies and intended to take them back to Puerto Rico, is now seeking a jury trial. Meanwhile, the surviving puppies have been adopted by Disney World firefighters, noted for their heroic actions.
United States (CBS News) Police dogs sniff out over 6 tons of cocaine hidden in banana shipment headed for Europe
In Brief: In a major drug bust, police dogs in Ecuador uncovered over six tons of cocaine hidden within a banana shipment destined for Germany. This seizure occurred during a routine inspection at the Deep Water Maritime Port in Posorja, where the sniffer dogs alerted police to the narcotics. The cocaine, valued at approximately $224 million, was packed in 5,630 brick-shaped packages beneath the bananas. Following the discovery, five individuals, including the export company representative and plantation managers, were arrested. This incident underscores Ecuador's role as a significant transit point for cocaine, with the country's ports frequently used to smuggle drugs to Europe and the U.S.
