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

1. United States (PetaPexel) The 2024 Dog Photography Awards Showcases Ace Pet Photographers

   The 2024 Dog Photography Awards recently celebrated outstanding pet photographers, capturing moments from rescue dogs to playful puppies. Among the winners were shots of a black dog leaping through water and a tender image of a woman with her golden dog, showcasing pet photography’s artistry. PetaPixel’s latest trending stories also feature the return of vintage film photography, Sony’s focus on zoom lenses, and Apple’s vision for photography’s future. Additionally, Sirui introduced its first full-frame autofocus lens, the Aurora 85mm f/1.4, marking a milestone in affordable, high-quality photography equipment.

2. Finland (Helsinki Times) Finnish Kennel Club honors 17 hero dogs for life-saving actions

   The Finnish Kennel Club has honored 17 dogs with the Hero Dog title for their life-saving actions, with an additional 17 receiving commendations. Recognized acts include alerting owners to medical emergencies, fires, and distressed individuals. Notable heroes include Ande, a Belgian Tervuren who found a missing elderly person, and Laila, a Border Collie who alerted her family to a nearby fire. These awards, highlighting dogs' courage and empathy, will be formally presented at the Koiramessut Dog Fair in Helsinki this December, marking decades of Hero Dog recognition by the Finnish Kennel Club.

3. United States (Newsweek) Family Watch as Cat Swept Away by Hurricane, Days Later They Hear a 'Meow'

   In Brief: After being swept away during Hurricane Helene, Ricardo Blanco, a family cat, miraculously returned home eight days later in Burnsville, North Carolina. Nancy Collins and her son Jonathon had feared the worst after witnessing him jump from their camper into floodwaters. Against all odds, Jonathon heard a familiar "meow" days later and found Ricardo, dirty but alive. Best Friends Animal Society treated him for an eye infection and other minor issues at a free mobile vet clinic, allowing Ricardo to fully recover and return to his grateful family.

4. India (Hindustan Times) Pets experience stress from loud noises, toxic fumes during Diwali: 6 vet-approved tips to take care of your fur baby

   Diwali’s festive atmosphere can be stressful for pets, with loud fireworks and flashing lights potentially leading to accidents or distress. Dr. Shantanu Kalambi from Supertails advises pet owners to remain calm, assess the situation, and provide immediate first aid for minor injuries. Watch for signs of illness, such as vomiting, lethargy, or breathing issues, and seek veterinary help if symptoms arise. Early intervention and calm preparedness are essential to keeping pets safe and healthy during the celebrations, ensuring a safe Diwali experience for all.

5. United Kingdom (Daily Star) Britain's cats and dogs take over social media with four million having their own profile

   In Brief: An estimated four million UK pets now have their own social media profiles, with 16% of pet owners sharing their animals' lives online through regular photos, updates, and videos. Kensington and Chelsea residents lead the trend, with 30% of pet owners creating accounts for their pets, followed by Reading, Edinburgh, and Manchester. Additionally, 37% of owners indulge their pets by allowing them at the dinner table, while nearly half let pets sleep in bed with them. This growing trend highlights the UK’s deepening bond with pets, often treated as family members in social media and daily life.