Pet Animals

More selective breeding might help flat-faced dogs to breathe easier

Dog training choices reflect owners’ ethical views on animals

A new study finds that dog trainers' methods reflect their ethical stance on animals. Owners with an anthropocentric view are more likely to use punishment-based methods, while those with a focus on animal welfare opt for positive training methods. The study highlights the importance of considering ethics in dog training.

Playing with your dog creates a stronger bond

A Linköping University study shows that playing with dogs for just a few minutes a day can significantly improve the emotional bond between owners and their pets. Dog training did not have the same effect, suggesting that playtime is crucial for building strong relationships.

Dog owners might struggle to recognize subtle signs of pain in their pets, with barely half of owners identifying symptoms such as nighttime restlessness and clinginess as likely indicating pain, in survey study

A survey study found that dog owners have difficulty recognizing subtle signs of pain in their pets. Only about half of owners correctly identified symptoms such as nighttime restlessness and clinginess as likely indicating pain.

Some ticks can survive from 1 to 3 weeks on home flooring

Researchers found that two species of ticks, Gulf Coast and lone star, can live at least one week and up to three weeks on hard-surface and carpeted floors. The study emphasizes the importance of taking protective measures to prevent tick bites.

University of Tennessee College of Social Work establishes Center for Pet Family Well-Being

The University of Tennessee has launched the Center for Pet Family Well-Being, reflecting its national recognition for advancing research and community-based solutions for pet-inclusive families. The center aims to integrate systems in ways that recognize pets as part of the family and essential to family and community resilience.

Experts uncover why cats are prone to kidney disease

Cats are prone to kidney disease due to a unique biological quirk, accumulating modified triglycerides with special ether-linkages. This study proposes that these fats may be an early sign of long-term stress within the kidney, potentially contributing to tissue damage over time.

Pets can help older adults’ health & well-being, but may strain budgets too

A new poll finds that pets contribute to healthy aging benefits for older adults, including increased sense of purpose and reduced stress. However, 31% of pet owners aged 50+ report that owning a pet strains their budget, mainly due to financial costs.

Where’d you get that frog? Illinois study traces illicit online amphibian trade

A recent Illinois study found that nearly 8,500 online classified ads for exotic amphibians were posted between 2004 and 2024, representing 301 species from around the world. The researchers verified a dataset of these listings, revealing 44 species traded without official paperwork, sold at a 40% premium. This illicit trade poses sign...

The ideal scent detection dog is confident, persistent and resilient, without insecurities or neuroticism, according to a study featuring Dutch police dog handlers

A study by Dutch police dog handlers revealed that confident, persistent, and resilient dogs with no insecurities are most suited for professional deployment. The research aimed to explore the ideal characteristics of scent detection dogs for successful police work.

Are cats ‘vegan’ meat eaters? Study finds why isotopic fingerprint of cat fur could trick us into thinking that way

Research found cats' hair and whisker nitrogen isotope values resemble those of vegans, indicating high efficiency in protein processing. This challenges the long-held assumption that carnivore isotopic signatures can determine diet.

Hearing angry or happy human voices is linked to changes in dogs’ balance

A study found that dogs experience changes in balance when hearing angry or happy human voices. Angry voices were most strongly associated with destabilization, while happy voices led to both stabilization and destabilization in some cases. The research suggests that emotional arousal may play a role in the dogs' responses.

Influence of dog ownership on exercise self-efficacy and physical activity: Differences before and after COVID-19

Dog owners experienced a decline in physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic but returned to pre-pandemic levels. Non-dog owners showed no significant changes. Before the pandemic, dog ownership was associated with high exercise self-efficacy, predicting greater physical activity.

1 in 5 surveyed UK adults who have experienced the death of a pet report it as more distressing than experienced human deaths, with significant rates of prolonged grief disorder symptoms also being reported following pet loss

A recent study found that approximately 1 in 5 surveyed UK adults who experienced the death of a pet report it as more distressing than experiencing human deaths. The study also discovered significant rates of prolonged grief disorder symptoms following pet loss.

Your pet's flea treatment could be destroying the planet

A recent study found that common flea and tick control medications used in dogs and cats can contaminate ecosystems with toxic chemicals. Isoxazoline antiparasitic drugs, used globally since 2013, may harm dung-feeding insects, including flies and butterflies, which are crucial for nutrient cycling and soil health.

Dog ownership is associated with a stronger sense of community, likely in part because it fosters neighborhood-based connections, per Japanese study

A Japanese study discovered dog ownership strengthens community ties through neighborhood interactions. The study compared dog owners with friends and acquaintances, finding a significant difference in social connections.

What is that dog taking? CBD supplements could make dogs less aggressive over time, study finds

A recent study found that dogs given CBD supplements show below-average levels of aggression over time, with the most aggressive changes observed in male dogs. The study, which used data from almost 50,000 dog owners, also found a link between CBD use and health conditions such as dementia and osteoarthritis.

Golden retriever and human behaviours are driven by same genes

Researchers identified 12 genes linked to canine behaviour also associated with human traits like anxiety, depression, and intelligence. The study provides insights into understanding dog emotional worlds and tailoring training or care to suit their needs.

Can social media help clarify the threat domestic cats pose to insect and spider populations?

A study published in Insect Conservation and Diversity analyzed over 17,000 social media photos and videos to understand domestic cats' prey in urban settings. The research found that cats hunt a diverse range of arthropods, including Orthoptera, Hemiptera, and Blattodea.

A study by Fisabio analyses how having animals in the early years of life can influence children's emotional development

A study by Fisabio found that children who owned 'other animals' had a protective effect against emotional problems, while cat ownership at ages 4-5 showed a mild association. The study suggests that less demanding pets may help create stable relationships and enhance psychological well-being.

Sniffer dogs tested in real-world scenarios reveal need for wider access to explosives, study finds

A new study found that sniffer dogs' performance in real-world scenarios is highly variable and dependent on factors like region, day, and explosive type. The research suggests that limited access to explosive training materials is a primary challenge for teams, highlighting the need for wider access to improve detection performance

Animal behavior: Dogs pawsitively hooked on toys

A study of 105 dogs found that 33 exhibited compulsive engagement with toys despite negative consequences. Dogs showed excessive fixation on their toy, lack of interest in alternatives, and inability to calm down after toy removal.

Raising money for a charity? Don't bark up the wrong tree.

A Dartmouth study found that people without pets donate more than cat owners, who in turn give more often and diversely. The researchers analyzed over $70 billion in donations from approximately 63 million donors, suggesting that personality traits may play a role in philanthropic behavior.

Getting a puppy poses mental health challenges alongside benefits for U.K. families

A new study reveals that puppy ownership can bring joy to parents and children, but also presents mental health challenges, including child-puppy interactions and caregiver responsibilities. To mitigate these risks, researchers recommend discussing dog-care responsibilities with children and attending safety training classes.

The pandemic may have influenced the trainability of dogs, as reported by their owners

A survey of nearly 50,000 dog owners found that dogs became harder to train during the pandemic, with improvements noted once restrictions were lifted. Factors like age, breed, and size also influenced behavior, with mixed-breed dogs showing more fear, aggression, and need for attention.

Plant-based dog foods not nutritionally complete, but may suffice with supplements

A UK study found that plant-based dog foods did not meet nutritional guidelines for iodine and B-vitamins, but experts say supplements or formulation changes can address these gaps. The research analyzed 31 dry dog foods, including meat-based and veterinary options, and found none met European Pet Food Industry Federation standards.

Novel therapy for pet cats with head and neck cancers could help humans, too

A new class of targeted therapy showed promise in treating head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in pet cats, with 35% of patients experiencing controlled disease. The drug, which targets the transcription factor STAT3, also raised levels of PD-1, a protein associated with an immune response to cancer.

Predicting respiratory disorder mortality in dogs

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found that elevated phosphate levels are associated with poor outcomes in canine respiratory disorders. The study used medical records from 133 dogs and identified heart rate, body temperature, and other factors as significant prognostic indicators.

People who recently adopted pets often struggled to access vet care

A recent study found that pet owners who recently adopted pets often struggled to access veterinary care, particularly those working from home and having children. The researchers analyzed an online survey of 751 US residents and discovered that 20% of all pet owners faced difficulties accessing basic veterinary services.

Some dog breeds are more likely to get diarrhea

A study found that six breeds are significantly more likely to get diarrhea than generic crossbreeds, while two breeds are less likely. Most dogs recover quickly from diarrhea, but around 38% require antibiotic treatment.

Cats recognize their owner’s scent

A study published in PLOS One found that domestic cats can discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar humans based on their odor. Cats spend longer sniffing the odor of a stranger than that of their owner, suggesting they can identify human scent patterns.

Man’s best friend may be nature’s worst enemy, study on pet dogs finds

New research found pet dogs disturb and directly harm wildlife, even when leashed, leading to reduced animal activity and avoided areas. Dog waste contributes to water pollution and inhibits plant growth.

A probiotic bacterial strain proven more effective for treating a common intestinal infection

Researchers have discovered a new probiotic bacterial strain that is 15% more effective in treating giardiasis than the existing strain. The strain, Lactobacillus johnsonii CNCM I-4884, has significant anti-Giardia activity and can transform conjugated bile salts into toxic compounds for the parasite.

Microplastics detected in cat placentas and fetuses during early pregnancy

A small study found 19 types of microplastic particles in cat placentas and fetuses during early pregnancy. The researchers suggest that microplastics may accumulate in cat placentas and potentially impact fetal health, highlighting the need for limits on plastic use and mitigation strategies.

Break the sedentary cycle: National Walking Day can kickstart healthier routines

The American Heart Association invites communities nationwide to walk together on National Walking Day to break the cycle of sedentary behavior. Regular walking can improve both physical and mental well-being, even in small steps.

Are dogs the new children?

Research suggests that dog ownership is connected to declining birth rates, as people turn to dogs for emotional support and companionship. The theory proposes that the popularity of dogs is rooted in biological evolutionary causes, but has culturally escalated as human relationships are often damaged or absent.

Research shows humans have a long way to go in understanding a dog’s emotions

New research from Arizona State University reveals that humans often misunderstand their pet's emotional state and base it on the context of the event. The study found that people rely on external factors rather than observing the dog's behavior, leading to a deeper misunderstanding of canine emotions.

Pioneering work generates feline embryonic stem cells in boon for cats

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have successfully generated feline embryonic stem cells, a major breakthrough for veterinary regenerative medicine. The high-quality stem cells can differentiate into various cell types and be transplanted to restore internal damage.

Siamese fighting fish need more space in pet shops, study shows

A new study reveals that Siamese fighting fish require significantly more space in pet shops than currently practiced, with a minimum tank size of 5.6 litres recommended for display and sale, and larger tanks for pets.

In Denmark, rural cat owners are neutering their cats and allowing them indoor access

A Danish study found that rural cat owners are increasingly managing their cats similarly to urban owners, leading to fewer unwanted kittens. The change reflects a growing human attachment to owned cats and a diminishing divide between rural and urban life.

Regular access to therapy dogs boosts first-year students’ mental health

First-year college students who interacted with therapy dogs on campus experienced lower stress and depression levels, increased self-compassion, and improved mental well-being. The study suggests that unstructured access to therapy dogs can provide sustained mental health benefits.

Pandemic puppy owners reported a greater burden of dog ownership

Researchers found that pandemic puppies, bought during the COVID-19 pandemic, had a greater burden of dog ownership, with higher costs and emotional challenges. Owners who reported problem behaviors, such as separation anxiety or aggression, also experienced a greater burden.

Fire ant connection explored in new study on eye disease in pets

A new study analyzed 100 cases of Florida spot keratopathy (FSK), a condition characterized by white spots on the cornea. The research found that FSK is typically stable and does not significantly affect vision or quality of life, but may be linked to exposure to little fire ants.

Working dogs take a day to adjust to Daylight Savings Time, but pets are more flexible

A study found that working sled dogs take a day to adjust to the change in routine caused by Daylight Savings Time, whereas pet dogs and their owners show no significant changes. Older pet dogs are less active on the first morning after the time shift.

Why you should (not) get a dog: the pros and cons of dog ownership

Dog owners cite emotional, physical, and social benefits of dog ownership, but also costly responsibilities. While daily life benefits include improved exercise and stability, the biggest cost is often cited as veterinary expenses.

In small preliminary study, fearful pet dogs exhibited significantly different microbiomes and metabolic molecules to non-fearful dogs, suggesting the gut-brain axis might be involved in fear behaviors

A small preliminary study reveals that fearful dog microbiomes differ significantly from those of non-fearful dogs. These findings suggest a possible link between the gut and brain, potentially influencing fear behaviors.

Pet dogs often overlooked as spreader of antimicrobial-resistant Salmonella

Researchers discovered that household dogs are a significant transmission point for zoonotic pathogens like nontyphoidal Salmonella. Proper hygiene and awareness can help mitigate cross-species infections.

Drug-resistant hookworms put pets and people at risk

New research reveals widespread resistance to benzimidazole-based dewormers among canine hookworms in Australia. This increases the risk of gastrointestinal parasites, anaemia, diarrhea, and malnutrition in dogs, as well as cutaneous larva migrans disease in humans.

Children who grow up with pets or on farms may develop allergies at lower rates because their gut microbiome develops with more anaerobic commensals, per fecal analysis in small cohort study

A small cohort study found that children raised on farms or with pets tend to have a lower risk of developing allergies due to the diversity of their gut microbiome. The study analyzed fecal samples from children and discovered more anaerobic commensals, which may contribute to this reduced allergy risk.

Guardian, kids, or companions? What do dogs mean to us today

Research found that dog owners attribute various roles to their pets, including friend, family member, child, colleague, or security guard. The study identified three distinct owner profiles with different dog roles and characteristics, which may impact daily life and canine welfare.

From pets to pests: Researchers explore new tool to fight disease-carrying insects

Scientists are exploring the use of fluralaner, an insecticide used to treat pets, as a larvicide against mosquitoes and flies. The study found that fluralaner is effective in controlling mosquito larvae for five weeks and midge larvae for eight weeks.

Dog–owner interaction is reflected in heart rate variability

A study at the University of Jyväskylä found that dog and owner heart rates synchronize during interaction, reflecting emotional state. The connection suggests a strong bond between species.

Novel digital pet game within smoking cessation app increases user engagement with app’s tools to quit smoking

A new study found that embedding a customizable digital pet game within a popular smoking cessation app increased user engagement and direct use of the app's smoking cessation tools. Overall engagement with the app increased by 20 percent, and direct use of the tool increased by 30 percent among participants who had access to the game.

New study sheds light on lily toxicity in cats; outpatient treatment may be viable option

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association has revealed new insights into treating cats exposed to toxic lilies. The study found no significant difference in acute kidney injury prevalence between inpatient and outpatient groups, suggesting that outpatient management may be a viable option fo...

Dogs contaminate London ponds with parasite medications

A recent study by Imperial College London has found that dogs swimming in contaminated ponds are releasing harmful levels of two pesticide medications. The chemicals, imidacloprid and fipronil, were used as flea and tick treatments for cats and dogs, posing a significant threat to aquatic life.

‘Who’s a good boy?’ Humans use dog-specific voices for better canine comprehension

Researchers found that humans slow their speech when talking to dogs to match the pets' receptive abilities, allowing for better understanding of commands. The study also revealed that dogs respond well to slower tempos and prosody in human speech.

Cooler heads prevail: New research reveals best way to prevent dogs from overheating

Researchers found that teaching dogs to voluntarily dunk their heads in water is the most effective method for rapidly cooling them down after exercise. The study also highlighted the importance of constant access to water and shade for outdoor pets.

Why petting your cat leads to static electricity

Researchers at Northwestern University have finally uncovered the mechanics of static electricity generated by rubbing objects together, explaining how forces on different parts of an object create electrical charges and a current. This breakthrough could lead to new solutions for industrial fires, pharmaceutical dosing, and other issu...

Researchers find ideal place to take reptiles’ pulse rate

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered an easy-to-reach location on the back of a reptile's head to take their pulse rate, corresponding to heart rate in healthy animals. This technique allows for a more complete cardiovascular examination and can be used to treat animals under anesthesia or when they're feeling defensive.

Both cats and dogs often enjoy playing fetch with their owners

A study published in PLOS ONE found that 4 in 10 cat owners report their feline companions playing fetch, while 78% of dog owners say their canine friends engage in the behavior. The research also highlights differences in fetching behavior between breeds and demographic factors.