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

1. United Kingdom (The Mirror) Lily Allen sent toy dog by furious charity after ditching her pet for eating passport

   In Brief: After Lily Allen returned her adopted dog, Mary, to a shelter for chewing her passport, animal rights organization PETA sent her a mechanical toy dog along with a pointed letter. PETA’s letter emphasized that a mechanical toy dog is the only type of pet Allen should own, criticizing her for treating the live animal as a disposable accessory. Allen, who lives in New York with her family, had discussed the challenges with Mary on the "Miss Me?" podcast, mentioning the incident with the passport as the final straw. Despite the mishap, Allen expressed her desire to adopt another dog in the future.

2. United States (Fox Business) Company offering 'dream job for dog parents' in nationwide search

   In Brief: Veterinarians are raising concerns about the health risks associated with dogs drinking from public water bowls, commonly fhttps://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/company-offering-dream-job-dog-parents-nationwide-searchound in dog parks and outdoor cafes. Dr. Lori Teller, a veterinary professor, highlighted the danger of infectious diseases such as salmonella and leptospirosis, which can be transmitted through communal bowls. The warning comes after a Boston dog owner lost her pet due to an illness contracted from a park's water bowl. Despite the risks, Dr. Teller acknowledges situations where drinking from these bowls is necessary to prevent dehydration or heatstroke in dogs. She advises pet owners to carry collapsible, portable water bowls and fresh water to mitigate risks. These bowls are affordable, compact, and come with features like carabiners for convenience, ensuring that dogs can stay hydrated safely while on the go.

3. United Kingdom (RSPCA) Kindness Index Report 2024

   In Brief: The thirteenth section of the 2024 Kindness Index Report highlights the need for greater public education on animal welfare, particularly through the school curriculum. The report shows that 89% of the public believes including animal welfare in the educational curriculum would benefit society. Efforts are being made to incorporate modules on empathy and animal welfare, with the Welsh Government already taking steps in this direction. The report advocates for expanding these initiatives across the UK, emphasizing the importance of teaching young people about animal protection from an early age to foster a more compassionate society​.

4. United Kingdom (BBC Science) The pet-brain effect: How cats and dogs can save you from cognitive decline

   In Brief: In a revealing study reported by BBC Science Focus, owning a pet, particularly for those who live alone, may offer a buffer against cognitive decline. Hayley Bennett highlights findings from multiple studies, including a notable six-year study from the U.S. that observed older individuals with Medicare. This study discovered that pet owners experienced a slower decline in cognitive functions such as memory and attention compared to those without pets. Further support comes from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, which includes over 7,945 participants and has shown similar benefits for pet owners since 2010. Specifically, the protective effects of pets appear most significant for those living solo, suggesting that companionship from pets can mitigate the accelerated cognitive decline and increased dementia risk typically seen in this demographic. This underscores the potential of pets as a simple yet effective means to enhance brain health in later life.

5. United Kingdom (The Guardian) Pet thieves could be jailed for up to five years under new law in UK

   In Brief: In a recent publication by Park Jong-Moo, a veterinarian, the increasing importance of pet insurance in Korea is highlighted. DespIn a major legislative step, the UK has enacted the Pet Abduction Act 2024, classifying the theft of cats and dogs as a criminal offense in England and Northern Ireland. The new law addresses a growing concern over pet theft, particularly of dogs, which statistics show are the most targeted pets. Prior to this act, pet theft was merely considered property theft under the 1968 Theft Act, which many felt did not acknowledge the emotional trauma involved in such incidents. Now, those found guilty of stealing pets can face up to five years in prison along with fines. This change aims to curb the illegal pet trade, exacerbated by increased demand during the Covid lockdowns. The law is a response to advocacy by pet lovers and organizations who have long pushed for greater legal protections against pet theft, underscoring the profound emotional impact on pet owners and addressing the need for stricter penalties for perpetrators.