Articles tagged with Pet Animals
Research found that pet owners had greater self-esteem, were more physically fit, and less lonely compared to non-owners. Pet ownership also benefited individuals experiencing rejection by providing a sense of comfort and companionship.
A new study published in Clinical & Experimental Allergy reveals that early exposure to pets does not increase the risk of allergies in children. In fact, research found that being exposed to dogs and cats in the first year of life may actually reduce the likelihood of becoming allergic to these animals later in life.
A study by Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition found that cats fed a hydrated diet had a slower rate of weight gain and were more physically active. This breakthrough has important implications for developing feeding strategies to modulate weight gain in cats.
Researchers investigated how dogs respond to human attention, finding that both domestic dogs and wolves can beg for food based on a human's attentiveness. Dogs' ability to follow human actions stems from their willingness to accept humans as social companions and conditioning to follow human movements.
A research team has created a risk map to predict wolf attacks on Wisconsin livestock, identifying three variables that distinguish high-risk areas from low-risk ones. The study suggests that targeting prevention efforts on high-risk hotspots can help reduce conflicts between humans and wolves.
A two-year study reveals the daily habits of feral and free-roaming house cats, with some having surprisingly large territories. The owned cats had significantly smaller territories and were less active than the un-owned cats, which had to search harder for food to survive.
A recent study by researchers at Seoul National University found that magpies can recognize individual humans, but only through visual cues. The birds showed aggressive responses to climbers and were able to distinguish them from non-climbers, suggesting a level of cognitive ability similar to that of domesticated animals.
Researchers at Indiana University found significant levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in the blood of pet dogs, with average concentrations about five to ten times higher than those found in humans. The study suggests that dogs may serve as 'biosentinels' for monitoring human exposure to flame retardants.
A groundbreaking study by University of California, Riverside researchers found that personality characteristics and social relations from childhood can predict one's risk of dying decades later. The Longevity Project followed over 1,500 bright children for 20 years, revealing that prudence and persistence are key to a long life.
Researchers at the WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition found that healthy cats regulate protein, fat, and carbohydrate consumption to meet their natural prey's macronutrient needs. The study suggests that domestic cats have a self-regulating mechanism to control their intake of these essential nutrients.
Anthropologists at University of Toronto discover earliest cemetery in the Middle East, with graves containing human remains and those of a red fox. The discovery suggests that humans may have kept foxes as pets or had early attempts to tame them, but no successful domestication.
Studies on juvenile trout reveal distinct personality traits, with some exhibiting aggression and others hiding from new objects. Shy trout surprisingly outperform bold individuals in growth rate when released into the wild.
A new study by the University of Bristol has found that dogs with separation-related behaviors tend to make more pessimistic judgments, suggesting a cognitive bias. The research provides insight into animal emotions and highlights the importance of addressing underlying negative emotional states in dogs.
Researchers have successfully tested a potential vaccine against Ichthyophthirius, a parasitic disease causing significant losses in commercial fish farming and home aquarium hobbyists. The study showed that vaccination with live Ich theronts stimulated production of protective antibodies in channel catfish.
A study found that almost three-quarters of cats in a six-month study wore collars consistently, with 60% exceeding owners' expectations. The researchers suggest including collar discussion during annual wellness exams and microchipping as a backup identification method.
A study by David Blouin found that people who think of animals as children tend to have a city background, while those in rural areas may view pets as just another animal. Having children often changes owners' thoughts on their pets.
Researchers have successfully used a continuous glucose monitoring device to treat dogs with diabetes, providing greater monitoring capabilities and alleviating the need for multiple blood samples. The device, commonly used in human diabetes treatment, helps veterinarians determine proper insulin dosages and manage diet-related factors.
A University of Leicester archaeologist has discovered a bone belonging to a late 19th-century tortoise from Stafford Castle, providing the earliest archaeological evidence for pet tortoises. This find sheds light on the changing attitudes towards family pets in British society during the late 19th century.
Researchers found that volunteers who associated their partner with bad things had a higher risk of separation. The new test did better at predicting breakup than traditional methods, providing insight into people's feelings about their partners.
The Dogslife study aims to assess how diet, exercise, and lifestyle factors affect an animal's susceptibility to disease. Owners of 10000+ Labrador puppies will provide regular updates on their dog's life, health, and environment.
Canadian Medical Association Journal urges airlines to prioritize human passenger safety over accommodating small pets in airplane cabins. The Canadian Transportation Agency considers requiring airlines to safeguard passengers with pet allergies, forcing a reevaluation of airline policies.
A study by Tufts University found significant variation in calorie density among 'low-calorie' pet foods, ranging from 217 to 440 kcal/cup. This can lead to confusion among pet owners and may result in pets not losing weight or even gaining weight if owners follow the recommended feeding directions.
The guide highlights key infection risks faced by transplant recipients, including pet ownership, food safety, and travel plans. It provides advice on how to minimize exposure to potential sources of infection and reduce the risk of respiratory, waterborne, and food-borne illnesses.
North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine requires all students to receive disaster training, enabling them to respond to the needs of both people and animals in the wake of disasters. This comprehensive program equips veterinarians with advanced state and federal disaster certifications.
Research documents the value of the human-animal bond in improving child development, elderly care, and rehabilitation outcomes. A growing body of evidence highlights the healing power of companion animals in reducing stress, providing affection, and fostering a sense of security.
Researchers at Loyola Medicine found that adults using pet therapy during recovery had 50% less pain medication usage. The animal-assisted therapy was trained through a program called Canine Companions for Independence.
Research estimates that coral reefs provide annual services to humans valued at US $172 billion, with a single hectare providing an average of $1.1 million in food and ornamental resources, while also regulating climate and moderating extreme events. Investing in protected areas offers exceptional returns on investment, with a cost-ben...
A recent study by Ohio State University found that microchipped animals were reunited with their owners in almost three out of four cases. The return-to-owner rate for cats was 20 times higher and for dogs 2 1/2 times higher than for all stray cats and dogs, highlighting the effectiveness of microchip technology in pet reunification.
Researchers are studying naturally occurring cancers in dogs to inform the development of new cancer drugs, devices, and imaging strategies for human cancer patients. The study aims to improve care for human patients by leveraging insights gained from canine cancer biology.
International experts will discuss the benefits of pet ownership on physical and mental health, including lower blood pressure and increased exercise. The conference aims to build upon existing research and generate more answers about the positive impact pets have on people's lives.
Indiana University researchers examine how rural LGBTQ youth use the internet to find representation, while dog owners' attitudes towards animals are influenced by cultural logics and personal experiences. Additionally, students perceive bullying as a false dichotomy, with themselves labeling as non-bullies even if engaging in behavior...
Research reveals that plant crystals play a crucial role in deterring herbivory and protecting against calcium oxalate poisoning. Different types of crystals perform distinct functions, such as creating a sensation of chewing sand or expelling microscopic darts from the plant tissue.
Studies have documented increasing MRSA infections among dog and cat bites, with skin, soft-tissue, and surgical infections most common. Infections can spread to owners through animal saliva and skin, highlighting the need for proper treatment and precautions.
The US wildlife trade is plagued by a lack of coordination and regulation, leading to the importation of millions of animals each year. This can have devastating effects on native species, food supply chains, and human health, as evidenced by previous disease outbreaks such as monkeypox.
A recent study by Brown University and the Wildlife Trust found that US wildlife imports are fragmented and insufficiently coordinated, failing to accurately list over four in five species entering the country. This lack of regulation poses significant risks to human health, food supply chains, and ecosystems.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that people are more attracted to rare species, leading to longer download times and increased attempts to access them. This perceived value of rarity poses a threat to conservation efforts, particularly in the context of ecotourism and exotic pet trade.
A study by University of Washington psychologists explores the effects of interacting with technological nature on human connections with nature. The researchers found that while technological nature can provide some benefits, it lacks the depth and social connections offered by natural interactions.
A study found that smokers are more likely to quit for their pet's health than their own. Secondhand tobacco smoke poses a significant risk to pets, causing various health issues.
Research at Kansas State University found that dog owners who don't wash their hands after petting their dogs or before cooking meals are more likely to spread antibiotic-resistant E. coli bacteria. Despite common bonding behaviors like sleeping with pets, these practices have no association with an increase in shared E. coli strains.
A recent study suggests that college students can benefit from owning a pet, with nearly a quarter reporting that their pets helped them get through difficult times. Students who lived with dogs or cats were less likely to feel lonely and depressed, highlighting the importance of animal companionship in young adulthood.
A study published in Toxicological Sciences reveals a possible link between pet food contamination and baby formula contamination, with melamine and cyanuric acid identified as key contaminants. The research suggests that acidification of the urine may be a reasonable treatment option for victims.
A Tel Aviv University study found that two-thirds of cat-dog households reported a positive relationship, while aggression was observed in 10%. Cats and dogs can learn to read each other's body signals, suggesting they may have more in common than thought.
A DNA study has identified genetic locations that contribute to differences in body shape, weight, fur color, and behavior among various dog breeds. This breakthrough may lead to better care regimes and tailored products for pet health.
A new study highlights the critical need for veterinarians in New England, where the region's economy relies on veterinary medicine worth $3.3 billion. The study reveals a shortage of up to 658 veterinarians by 2014 and notes that food animal veterinians will retire at nearly twice the rate of their companion animal colleagues.
A survey by Ohio State University found that public opinion about outdoor cats varies widely across the state, with some residents supporting spay-neuter laws and others believing local governments should control free-roaming cats. The study suggests a community-based approach is needed to address the issue.
Researchers at Ohio State University identified 14 types of mold on and around Madagascar hissing cockroaches, including molds associated with allergies. Handling the insects may trigger allergic responses in sensitive individuals if proper cleaning and care are not taken.
Research reveals that people's tendency to anthropomorphize (attribute human-like qualities) non-human entities can serve as a coping mechanism for loneliness. This phenomenon carries therapeutic and societal implications, suggesting that non-human connections can provide psychological benefits similar to those from human relationships.
Researchers found that vacuuming is an effective way to kill fleas, with a high success rate in killing adult fleas (96%) and destroying younger stages (100%). The study suggests that the physical abuse caused by the vacuum's brushes and fans leads to flea death.
A study published by the American Chemical Society found a link between feline hyperthyroidism and exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from flame retardants in furniture, pet food, and household dust. PBDE levels were three times higher in hyperthyroid cats than in younger cats.
Researchers found that 71% of lost dogs were reunited with their owners, compared to 53% of lost cats. Identification tags or microchips played a crucial role in recovery. Posting signs and advertising in local newspapers also helped recover pets.
The survey found that dogs received 16% fewer animals since 1996, while cat intake increased by nearly 20%, leading to a rise in cat euthanasia rates. In contrast, dogs saw a significant decrease in euthanasia rates and more adoptions, with 63,700 dogs adopted compared to 51,600 in 1996.
According to Irvine, no animals had to be euthanized due to lack of space after Hurricane Charley. She studied how human attitudes and myths influence emergency workers' approach to free-roaming animals during disasters.
The Internet enables organizations to function as virtual shelters without physical locations, allowing for pre-screening and coordination of adoption events. Descriptive online ads educate potential owners about endearing traits, while interactive messages narrow the selection process.
Small animal imaging allows for repeated, non-invasive studies on the same living subject, providing crucial information on disease progression and treatment outcomes. This technology enables researchers to gain insights into human biology and disease, leading to improved diagnosis and development of innovative drugs.
Recent Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences article highlights the alarming rate of vertebrate invasions between Europe and North America. With a 25% chance of invasion for each introduced animal, precautions like port inspection and exotic wildlife regulations are crucial to combat invasive species.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed an advanced PET scanner, MicroPET II, that can resolve a volume of one cubic millimeter, significantly improving detection of small cancer cells in experimental animals. The non-invasive imaging technology allows researchers to gain more information and use fewer animals in studies.
The microPET Focus offers significant improvements in image resolution and system sensitivity compared to its predecessor. The new design features reduced detector crystal cross-sections and gap sizes, resulting in improved spatial resolution and increased sensitivity.
Researchers found that pet owners had lower stress responses and fewer errors when completing mental arithmetic challenges with their pets present. In contrast, participants without pets showed higher stress levels and made more mistakes when alone or with friends/spouses.
Children exposed to two or more pets during their first year of life were on average 66-77% less likely to develop allergic antibodies, a significant finding that challenges current understanding of allergy development.
A study found that children exposed to dogs and cats in the home have a significantly reduced risk of developing common allergies, with exposure levels reducing allergy rates by up to 45%. The research suggests that early exposure to endotoxins from pets may help the immune system develop a different response, making it less likely for...