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 (Forbes) The Friendliest (And Least Friendly) Dog Breeds, According To Their Owners
In Brief: In a study by Forbes Advisor, which surveyed 5,000 dog owners, they identified the friendliest and least friendly dog breeds based on owner responses to various behavioral questions. The Bernese Mountain Dog topped the list as the friendliest breed, praised for its welcoming nature and sociability with both humans and other dogs. Other friendly breeds included Golden Retrievers, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, and Labrador Retrievers, all noted for their good nature and affectionate behavior.
Conversely, the American Bulldog was ranked as the least friendly, with challenges in cuddling and welcoming newcomers. Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers also appeared on the least friendly list, recognized for their loyalty but also their protective and sometimes reserved nature towards strangers.
The study highlighted the influence of breed on a dog's personality, emphasizing the importance of early socialization and positive reinforcement training to foster friendliness and sociability. It also noted that while a dog's breed can guide potential pet owners in choosing a compatible pet for their home, individual personality variations within breeds are significant.
United States (CBS17) Raleigh woman charged with falsifying vet records to receive pet insurance
In Brief: Laura Jacquellen Toole, a 25-year-old from Raleigh, N.C., has been charged with insurance fraud after allegedly falsifying veterinary records to claim pet insurance benefits. The fraudulent activity reportedly took place on January 25, and Toole was arrested under a warrant on July 11. Released on a $10,000 unsecured bond, Toole faces serious charges as part of a broader concern highlighted by North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey. Causey emphasized that insurance fraud significantly impacts consumers financially, noting that around 20% of every insurance premium dollar is used to cover the costs associated with fraud.
United Kingdom (RSPCA) Kindness Index Report 2024
In Brief: The fourth section of the 2024 Animal Kindness Index focuses on the role of role models in shaping public attitudes towards animal welfare. The report emphasizes the significant influence that individuals, especially those in government, education, and the tech sector, have in acting as role models for responsible animal welfare practices.
A notable majority of the UK population, 77%, believes that individuals should take personal responsibility for animal welfare. Furthermore, there is a strong expectation for institutions like governments and schools to play a leading role in both legislation and education concerning animal welfare. When asked about important animal welfare issues, ending harmful dog breeding practices and improving legislation to protect wildlife are top priorities for many respondents.
The government's actions, or lack thereof, particularly following the dropping of the Kept Animals Bill, have spotlighted the need for more robust animal welfare laws. Public pressure and advocacy are seen as crucial in ensuring the government prioritizes and reinstates animal welfare measures that had been previously promised. This section of the report calls for more action from both individuals and institutions to bridge the gap between attitudes and real-world actions in animal welfare.
United States (Lexology) Pet Industry Spotlight
In Brief: An astonishing $147 billion was spent on pets in 2023, a testament to over two decades of steadfast growth in a sector showing remarkable recession resilience. Leading the expenditure, food and treats continue to dominate, closely followed by burgeoning veterinary care and product sales. The retail landscape isn't far behind, with pet stores raking in $29.4 billion last year alone, and an expected steady growth moving forward.
A surge in demand for premium and natural products is reshaping consumer habits, as pet owners increasingly opt for items that enhance the health and well-being of their furry friends, including CBD-infused products. The integration of technology is revolutionizing pet care, with AI and machine learning paving the way for personalized pet care solutions and innovative tech products like smart collars and health monitoring devices are on the rise.
Furthermore, sustainability is becoming a crucial factor in consumer choices, with a clear shift towards eco-friendly practices and products. Meanwhile, the corporate scene is buzzing with major moves, including Petco's appointment of Joel Anderson as its new CEO, a veteran with a track record of propelling significant revenue growth. However, the industry faces challenges as Nationwide Mutual Insurance plans to cancel 100,000 pet insurance policies in response to inflationary pressures, signaling a critical time for financial adjustments to maintain sustainability in pet insurance offerings.
IBIS World reports there are 32 insurance companies offering pet insurance in 2023 offering pet insurance with total revenues of $3.2B and growth averaging 16.5% per year since 2018. Trupanion’s share is 21.4% and Nationwide’s 18.5%.
United States (CBS News) New app helps pet parents book backyard space for their dogs
In Brief: In San Francisco, a new app called Sniffspot is revolutionizing the way dog owners can find play space for their pets. Sniffspot allows pet parents to book private backyards for their dogs to run and play without the usual park chaos. For about $20 an hour, dogs like Amy Branner's Border Terrier, Oscar, who struggles with socializing at public dog parks, can enjoy amenities like obstacle courses and pools. The app, which boasts 20,000 listings nationwide, offers a solution for dogs that live a sedentary lifestyle, helping to combat issues like obesity and anxiety. For hosts like Shannon Radke, the joy it brings to the dogs is the greatest reward, making Sniffspot a win-win for both pet owners and hosts.
