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 (CNN) Trump & Vance defy pleas to stop repeating false pet rumors
(Video) Two residents say they regret their roles in starting pet-eating rumours
United States (White House) A Proclamation on National Service Dog Day, 2024
On National Service Dog Day, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. celebrated the invaluable contributions of service dogs to individuals with disabilities and veterans across the United States. Highlighting the historical recognition of service dogs under the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, which he co-sponsored, Biden applauded their ongoing impact on enhancing and sometimes saving lives. He detailed initiatives like the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers for Veterans Therapy Act and the Service Dog Veterinary Health Insurance Benefit, which support veterans by covering veterinary costs and fostering service dog training. Additionally, the Department of Transportation’s establishment of the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights ensures safe and dignified travel for those with service animals. Biden’s proclamation reaffirms September 20, 2024, as a day to honor these heroic animals for their service, assistance, and unconditional love.
United Kingdom (RSPCA) Kindness Index Report 2024
In Brief: The 19th section of the 2024 Kindness Index Report explores the increasing influence of social media on animal welfare and highlights the dangers it poses. It reveals that 43% of 16-17 year-olds report witnessing acts of animal cruelty online. The report stresses the importance of stricter regulations under the new Online Safety Act, which requires platforms to remove content that shows significant harm to animals. The section also emphasizes the role of social media companies in educating users on how to report cruelty and in swiftly removing harmful content to protect animals
United States (Yahoo News / Independent) Zoo admits that their pandas are ‘painted dogs’ after backlash from visitors
In a bizarre revelation, a Chinese zoo admitted to painting Chow Chow dogs to resemble pandas, sparking outrage among visitors. The Shanwei Zoo faced backlash after visitors noticed the "pandas" panting and barking, behaviors uncharacteristic of the actual bear species native to China. The deception came to light through social media, where videos showed the dogs with unnatural panda-like markings. This incident is part of a recurring pattern in Chinese zoos, including a previous case at Taizhou Zoo, where officials claimed to host "panda dogs" before admitting the truth. The practice has drawn criticism for potentially harming the dogs’ health, given their sensitive skin and thick coats, despite zoo officials defending the dye used as harmless. This scandal highlights ongoing issues with animal misrepresentation in attractions aiming to boost visitor numbers.
United States (NPR) Lawmakers push for funding to help groups train service dogs for vets with PTSD
In Brief: A group of Congressional lawmakers wants to funnel millions of dollars toward organizations that pair service dogs with veterans with PTSD.
