Former Animal Control Officer Faces Nearly 150 Charges in Animal Cruelty Scandal
A once-respected animal advocate and former animal control officer, faces 146 charges of animal cruelty and neglect in Cochise County, Arizona. The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation into Jill Houchens’ activities on February 6, 2024, following a tip-off about the deplorable conditions at her property. Authorities executed a search warrant three days later, unveiling a harrowing scene. Animals were found living amidst filth, with no clean standing area and a dire lack of essential resources like food and...
Flatworm That Originated in Western Rivers Threatens Dogs
In the tranquil waters of California’s rivers, a silent predator has emerged, posing an unforeseen threat to the state’s canine population. The discovery of the ‘Dog-Killing Flatworm’, scientifically known as Heterobilharzia americana, has sent shockwaves through the pet-owning community and beyond. This flatworm, previously confined to the Gulf Coast states such as Texas, has now found its way into the heart of California, bringing with it a slew of dangers for our furry companions. Photo: PexelsThe flatworm causes...
7 Mental Enrichment Activities to Help Your Dog Recover from Surgery
If your dog has just had surgery, long walks and play dates at the park will be off the table for a while. These mental enrichment activities will support her recovery by helping to prevent boredom, stress, or reinjury. When your dog returns home after surgery, the time will soon come when her grogginess wears off and her energy sparks back in. This can be a challenge if she feels she’s ready to go for walks, play fetch, and bounce off the furniture the way she did before. But what your dog really needs is rest, which means you’re...
Study: Can short-term foster care increase a dog’s chances of adoption exponentially?
Is short-term foster care beneficial for shelter pets? While previous research has focused on dogs’ wellbeing during sleepovers and field trips outside the shelter, the recent findings, part of the Arizona State University/Virginia Tech Maddie’s® Nationwide Fostering Study, provide insight into the effect these outings have on dogs’ adoption rates. Here are five important takeaways from this research: Pups who are taken on a field trip for just a few hours are five times more likely to be adopted! If...
Cat Owners Beware — Your Furry Friend Might Double Your Schizophrenia Risk
In a world where pets are considered part of the family, a recent study raises eyebrows with its findings on the potential risks associated with feline companionship. Delving into the depths of psychiatric research, this analysis sheds light on the complex relationship between cat ownership and the development of schizophrenia-related disorders. Photo: PexelsCat ownership before age 25 may significantly increase schizophrenia risk. Cat Ownership: A Double-Edged Sword? The study, a comprehensive review led by Dr. John McGrath and his team,...
Vet Shares The 5 Most Overlooked Spots To Find Ticks On Your Dog
Ticks are already appearing in many states due to a mild end to winter. Some states are even forecasting a “severe” tick season. This is a concern for both people and pets. As temperatures continue to rise, so do the number of ticks. Ticks are dangerous because they can transmit diseases, like Lyme disease, to people and their furry companions. The pesky parasites are difficult to find as they often head to protected areas on the body. People are urged to thoroughly check their bodies and their pets for ticks after hiking,...
Maine Woman Hopes To Celebrate Her 100th Birthday With 100 Dogs
Dogs are man’s (and woman’s) best friend. They bring so much joy, and countless studies have proved that they improve our mental and physical health. Just being around one dog is an instant mood booster, but just think about how it would feel to be surrounded by dozens of friendly, happy pups. Avis Tolman from Rockville, Maine, has always loved dogs and hopes to spend a milestone birthday with her favorite animal. She is turning 100 on March 20th and her birthday wish is to have at least 100 dogs attend her party. Photo:...
When Fun Goes Fatal — The Dark Side of Dog Vs Lemon Challenge
A new trend has emerged on TikTok that sees pet owners engaging in a seemingly harmless game with their dogs. The trend involves throwing slices of lemon to dogs and capturing their reactions to the fruit’s sour taste. Videos under the hashtag #DogVsLemon have garnered over 20 million views, enchanting viewers with the humorous facial expressions of dogs. However, veterinarians have raised serious concerns about the potential dangers this trend poses to canine health. Photo: Adobe Stock / Yuri KravchenkoLemons can cause severe...
Haiti Is in Dire Need of Aid as Gangs Storm Prisons, Attack Airports, and Run People Out of Their Homes
Haiti has been a place of poverty and unrest for decades, especially following the 2010 earthquake that destroyed much of the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince, and led to the emergence of dozens of violent gangs vying for control in the unstable political space. Things escalated even further after President Jovenel Moise was assassinated in 2021. To many, it seemed the situation couldn’t get worse. But in recent weeks, the gang violence has exploded into what some have termed a “low-scale civil war.” Gangs burned...
Rampant Cruelty Unleashed in Georgia’s Underground Bush Track Racing
In the heart of Georgia, a disturbing trend has taken root in the form of unregulated “bush track” horse racing, epitomized by the infamous Rancho El Centenario. These clandestine events, far removed from the oversight of regulatory bodies, have become arenas of blatant animal cruelty and illicit gambling, casting a long shadow over the state’s equine community. Photo: PexelsBush track races often operate without veterinary oversight, endangering horse health. Unmasking the Dark World of Bush Track Racing Rancho El...
