A study from Texas A&M University found that dogs with chronic enteropathy and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency have similar bacterial outputs, suggesting a common underlying mechanism. This discovery could lead to the development of more targeted treatments for both canine and human GI diseases.
A study from Purdue University found that some breeds of dogs have hidden coat colors and other traits due to genetic variations. The researchers analyzed data from 212 dog breeds and discovered that up to 48 breeds possess the tailless gene variant, often at low frequencies.
A new study has found that spaying dogs reduces their risk of developing mammary tumors, but may increase the risk of more aggressive cancers. Higher serum estrogen levels in spayed animals with mammary tumors were associated with longer times to metastasis and improved survival times.
A new method uses detection dogs and genetic species identification to survey lizard populations without direct contact. The technique was successfully used to identify 78% of 327 samples collected over four years, with most being from blunt-nosed leopard lizards.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered that babies can recognize counting as a way to describe quantity, even before they can verbally express the numbers. The study found that when toys were counted aloud, babies showed an understanding of the approximate number and expected more than one toy to be pulled from the box.
A genetic test can now be developed for the mutation discovered in the RAPGEF6 gene in miniature bull terriers. The study identifies an important role for RAPGEF6 in laryngeal nerve function, with carriers of the mutation having a 10- to 17-fold increased risk of laryngeal paralysis.
A novel intervention integrating psychological values-based approach with coordinated care management significantly improved daily functioning for vulnerable patients. The 'values-based' approach identified patients' values and goals to engage them in appropriate care, reducing hospital costs and improving quality of life.
Pulmonary hypertension caused by respiratory disease has been linked to improved health outcomes through identifying underlying conditions. Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that thorough evaluations and tailored therapy approaches can help dogs with pulmonary hypertension, increasing survival rates.
Researchers found antibiotic-resistant bacteria in over 60% of raw pet food samples, including E. coli that can cause infections in humans and animals. The study advises dog and cat owners to handle the food carefully and maintain strict hygiene standards.
The Morris Animal Foundation is awarding over $1 million for research projects focusing on deadly diseases in dogs and cats, including canine cancer and feline infectious peritonitis. The grants will support scientists at nine universities in developing new treatments and tests to improve animal health.
A new study finds that dog owners have a lower risk of death from heart attacks and strokes, with significant reductions in mortality rates for those living alone or with a partner. Dog ownership is associated with increased physical activity, decreased depression, and reduced social isolation.
A Penn Medicine study shows delivering a 'distant cousin' of a key protein prevents muscle damage and maintains muscle function in both small and large animal models. The synthetic substitute, utrophin, proved to be an effective and safe alternative to dystrophin, with significant implications for gene therapy.
A study at the University of Guelph found that dog owners frequently make errors when measuring out dry dog food, with significant variations in portion sizes. The researchers recommend using a kitchen scale to ensure precise measurements and prevent under- or over-nourishment.
An international team has identified the LRIT3 gene mutation responsible for congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) in dogs, a form of blindness also affecting humans. The researchers found that the mutation affects ON bipolar cells involved in dim light vision, but the retina's structure remains relatively unaffected.
Researchers analyzed data from seven Latin American countries to show that a 10% increase in dog vaccinations decreases human deaths by 12.4%. Additionally, increased vaccination rates lead to reduced healthcare demand in response to rabies elimination campaigns.
A new study from Oregon State University finds that cats form attachments with their human owners similar to the bonds formed by children and dogs. The majority of cats (65.8%) are securely attached to their caregivers, while 34.2% exhibit insecure attachment behaviors.
A recent study found that domestic cats bond with their owners in a way that's surprisingly similar to infants, with about 65% of both cats and kittens classified as securely attached. This suggests that cats' human attachments are stable and present in adulthood.
The study reveals that dogs with inflammatory CNS disease have autoantibodies targeting neuronal cell surface proteins, similar to humans. The findings could lead to better diagnosis and treatment options for canine encephalitis.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that overweight dog owners are more likely to have obese dogs, with a correlation between treats used for training and comfort. The study also reveals that castration triples the risk of being heavy or obese in male dogs.
Dogs in Africa are susceptible to severe and often fatal disease if bitten by infected tsetse flies, characterized by symptoms such as corneal cloudiness. Researchers have developed molecular methods to accurately diagnose the disease, revealing a surprising link between canine and human cases.
A new study found that a special diet can alter the gut microbiome in dogs with Crohn's-like disease, mirroring changes seen in children with the condition. The diet-induced changes led to increased production of secondary bile acids, which alleviated disease symptoms.
Researchers used a canine model of Leber congenital amaurosis to study the effects of gene therapy on photoreceptor cells. They found that dogs treated before 63% of their cells were lost had lasting improvements, while those treated later experienced continued degeneration.
New research reveals that human selective breeding has altered dog brain structure and behavior, with breeds exhibiting unique brain networks correlated to specific characteristics.
A human infective nematode has been identified in canine carriers for the first time in remote northern Australia. The study suggests that dogs may represent a potential reservoir of human strongyloidiasis in these communities.
A recent study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that dog owners had lower cardiovascular disease risk factors and healthier cardiovascular profiles compared to non-pet owners. The study discovered that the benefits of dog ownership on heart health were most pronounced for those who owned a dog, regardless of age, sex, or educ...
A new study reveals that dogs communicate distress more effectively than cats, and pet ownership is associated with increased emotional sensitivity to negative animal vocalizations. Dog whines are rated as sad as human baby cries, while cat meows sound sadder only to cat owners.
Researchers found a gene mutation in nearly half of dogs with lung cancer that could be treated with the same drug used for human breast cancer. A clinical trial is planned for dogs with naturally occurring lung cancer and the HER2 mutation.
Researchers at Emory University found that the medial axis of an object, or its skeletal geometry, is a crucial visual tool for object recognition. The study suggests that this inner mechanism may play a more important role than previously thought in recognizing objects quickly.
A team of veterinarians, emergency medical services experts, and canine handlers developed protocols for treating law enforcement K-9s. The guidelines cover vital signs, analgesics, and equipment needed to care for canine patients.
Research found that older adults are more likely to condemn accidentally harmful actions, even when no intent was involved. This could impact jury decisions and the legal system's approach to moral judgment.
A contagious canine cancer has been found to have originated around 6,000 years ago in Asia and spread globally through maritime activities. The cancer's evolution has revealed unique signatures left by carcinogens, including exposure to UV light, which is also linked to human cancers.
Researchers have identified a contagious form of cancer in dogs, known as CTVT, which has persisted for thousands of years. The study reveals that cancer cells can evolve and stabilize over time, offering new insights into human cancer development and treatment.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a novel experimental model for dog bladder cancer using 3D organoid culture from urine samples. The model allows for quick determination of chemotherapy and identification of new biomarkers for both human and canine bladder cancer.
Children as young as 3-5 years old use their prior knowledge to process new vocabulary, applying reasoning skills previously thought to develop later in life. The 'blowfish effect' shows that children learn more specific terms by associating them with unusual objects.
A study published by TGen and Tufts University found that osteosarcoma in dogs shares many genomic features with human osteosarcoma, including low mutation rates and altered cellular pathways. This discovery could lead to the development of new therapies for both humans and animals affected by this deadly disease.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that spaying or neutering large-breed dogs can lead to a higher risk of obesity and nontraumatic orthopedic injuries. Dogs spayed or neutered before 6 months of age were at a significantly greater risk of sustaining these injuries.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered that interacting with animals for just 10 minutes can lower cortisol levels, a major stress hormone, in college students. The study involved 249 participants divided into four groups, with the first group showing a significant reduction in cortisol levels after petting cats and dogs.
Research found that even high-level mathematicians can't solve simple subtraction problems when their worldly knowledge interferes. The study suggests that math education should consider this bias to improve performance.
Dogs can be trained to respond to haptic vibration commands using a modified canine vest containing vibrating motors. The technology has promising results for human-canine communication in search and rescue and service animal applications.
A survey found that most dog and cat owners are not aware of pet blood donation schemes and animal blood banks. Despite this, the majority would be willing to let their pets donate blood, suggesting increased awareness could boost donor numbers.
A recent study published in Mammalian Genome found that inbreeding depression reduces litter sizes in purebred golden retrievers. The researchers analyzed data from 93 female golden retrievers and discovered that a dam's inbreeding coefficient was associated with the number of puppies it birthed.
A year-long study found that free-roaming mongrel dogs exhibit high levels of aggression in the middle of their dominance hierarchy, contrary to predictions. The researchers suggest that the complexity of pecking order in this crowded area leads to increased aggression.
A study by Indiana University psychologists found that people's stated preferences for dogs don't always align with their chosen breed. The researchers surveyed 1,229 visitors to an animal shelter and discovered that only a few traits, such as age and playfulness, consistently influenced dog selection.
Researchers sequenced canine cancer cell lines to identify human-like genetic changes driving canine cancers. The study found 61 genetic variants that match known drivers of human cancer, and showed sensitivity to human medicines.
Researchers found that unpleasant odors improve memory for images paired with the bad smell 24 hours later, as well as for related images. Individuals with larger arousal responses had better memory recall. The study suggests that aversive odors can be used to examine emotional learning and memory processes across development.
A new study found that perceived effectiveness of positive reinforcement and owner confidence are crucial factors in using such techniques. The researchers suggest that practical support and emotional well-being management are essential for owners to develop confidence in training their dogs.
A study by the University of Bristol found that dog owners' perceptions of effectiveness and confidence in using behaviour modification techniques are crucial in predicting their adoption of positive reinforcement-based solutions. Positive reinforcement-based techniques are humane and effective, while punishment-based methods can exace...
Researchers found that dogs have developed a muscle above the eyes to intensively raise their inner eyebrow, making them appear larger and more infant-like. This movement, known as AU101, triggers a caregiving response in humans, potentially leading to enhanced social interaction.
Researchers have trained beagles to identify lung cancer by scent with 97% accuracy, offering a potential solution for earlier detection. The dogs' abilities may lead to the development of an over-the-counter screening product, similar to a pregnancy test.
Researchers develop a bio-scoring system to improve prognostication for dogs with mammary tumors, identifying those at higher risk of metastasis. The system uses tumor stage, grade, and histological type to provide a clearer picture of treatment options.
A study using over 76,000 dog data reveals that behavioural traits associated with the domestication syndrome, such as sociability and playfulness, are not correlated in modern breeds. In contrast, ancient breeds like Siberian Huskies show strong correlations between these traits.
A new study from Linköping University found that dogs and their owners share similar stress levels, with high-stress owners having high-stress dogs. The study examined 25 border collies and 33 Shetland sheepdogs and found no correlation between dog personality traits and stress levels.
Research found that wild boars, hunting dogs, and hunters in Brazil are carriers of Rickettsia bacteria, transmitted through ticks. The study highlights the importance of public action planning to prevent neglected vector-borne diseases in overlapping areas.
A recent genetic study published in Genes journal found no detectable common DNA between domestic and wild Australian dogs, contradicting myths that kelpies originated from dingos. The research characterized gene variants of both kelpie types and compared them with those in sequenced Australian dingoes.
Researchers have documented the unexpected presence of bush dogs in the Talamanca Mountains of Costa Rica, where they are considered rare and seldom seen even in their native range. The discovery raises questions about the animals' expansion or re-emergence into the region.
Scientists agree on the need to address wolf-dog hybridization but are divided on its management, threatening Europe's wolves. The study highlights the importance of educating people about the impact of free-roaming dogs and removing hybrids from small wild populations.
Researchers at Ohio State University identified dog breeds, such as pit bulls and mixed breed dogs, that pose the highest risk of biting children with severe injuries. The study found that dogs with wide and short heads weighing between 66 and 100 pounds also have a high risk of biting.
Salto's new skills allow it to bounce like a pogo stick and jump through obstacle courses like an agility dog. Researchers hope the robot will aid in search-and-rescue missions by navigating rubble to find trapped people.
A highly accurate test for canine lymphoma diagnosis has been developed by Ethos Veterinary Health and TGen, with a accuracy rate of over 90% among various sample types. The study's findings suggest the need for methodological consistency and transparency in veterinary diagnostic testing.
A pilot study led by Dr. Stephanie McGrath found that 89% of dogs who received CBD had a reduction in seizure frequency. The research suggests a correlation between CBD concentration and seizure reduction, leading to potential alternative treatments for canine epilepsy.