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Getting pets to the vet

As veterinarians, we know how important the veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is for diagnosing and treating patients. Research shows it’s also a critical component in providing routine wellness and preventive care. The AVMA’s most recent survey of pet and pet owner … read more > from AVMA@Work Blog https://atwork.avma.org/2019/08/31/getting-pets-to-the-vet/ Vet Pros Go here from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2019/08/getting-pets-to-vet.html via Susan Esquivel

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How to Find Out Your Dogs Breed

  If you purchase a dog from a shelter, it might be difficult to find out what the exact breed of your dog is. Shelters are stuffed with puppies and adult dogs awaiting adoption, some are clearly purebred, but others are clearly mixes of multiple breeds. Every dog is equally deserved of love no matter what their breed is, but it’s still amusing to figure out a dog’s history. It can also be helpful to know a dog’s heritage for medical purposes since some breeds are vulnerable to specific health issues.

  Ask Your Vet’s Opinion

Vets see many numbers of breeds come into their clinics, and the majority develop a keen eye for assessing which breed(s) may be involved in a certain dog’s family line. When in question, inquire with your vet for an expert opinion about your dog’s history.

  Contact Your Local Kennel Club

If you are wondering if your dog is purebred or mixed, you’ll find legitimate dog experts at your local kennel club.

Find out when the club is gathering for the next meeting and plan to attend. Bring your dog with you and ask if anyone can try to help you find out his or her history after the meeting finishes. You might get more opinions than you expected, but it could lead to a great conversation and consensus of opinion.

  Submit a DNA Sample

If you really feel you need to know which breed your dog is, submitting a DNA sample will be the most accurate way to find it out.

Collecting a DNA sample is as easy as swiping the inside of your dog’s mouth with a cotton swab and sealing it with the collection container provided with the kit. You can then insert the container in the return envelope that comes with the kit and mail it back to the lab. Once the sample has been analyzed, labs typically send a report on which breeds were identified in the sample.

Be aware that dog DNA testing isn’t foolproof and results may vary, but it may prove more accurate than a visual comparison to other dog breeds. If you can afford the cost of the test, this may be your best option.

The post How to Find Out Your Dogs Breed appeared first on What Breed Is it.

from What Breed Is it https://whatbreedisit.com/find-dogs-breed/ Follow What Breed Is It On Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/whatbreedisit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatbreedisit/ from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2018/03/how-to-find-out-your-dogs-breed.html via Susan Esquivel

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Flexpet Review – Side Effects? – Does It Work?

from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/11/flexpet-review-side-effects-does-it-work.html via Susan Esquivel

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Pet Scoop: Residents Rescue Blind Dog From Lake, Penguin Chicks Hand-Reared at Zoo

April 28, 2017 at 07:13PM by >br> April 28, 2017: We've scoured the Web to find the best and most compelling animal stories, videos and photos. And it's all right here.

Image: Boston rescued from Miami lake

Struggling Dog Pulled Aboard Boat

Neighbors in Miami Gardens, Florida, jumped into action when they spotted a senior Cocker Spaniel who was blind struggling in a lake. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue was called, but in the meantime, residents took to the water in a boat to help. A Good Samaritan pulled Boston aboard and brought him to firefighters who were waiting on the other side of the lake. Boston was later reunited with Barbara Terry, who’s been dog sitting while her brother is out of town. Terry saw Boston on Local 10 News and contacted authorities. She was relieved he was OK — but laughed that she thinks she’s lost her job. — Watch it at Miami’s Local 10

Dog Food Possibly Contaminated With Euthanasia Drug Recalled

The Texas-based company Party Animal is recalling 13-ounce cans of Cocolicious Beef & Turkey dog food (Lot #0136E15204 04, best by July 2019) and 13-ounce cans of Cocolicious Chicken & Beef dog food (Lot #0134E15 237 13, best by August 2019). The company said two cans of the food had tested positive for pentobarbital, a drug used for euthanasia. The food had been manufactured and distributed in 2015. "The safety of pets is and always will be our first priority. We sincerely regret the reports of the discomfort experienced by the pet who consumed this food," the company said in a statement. They urged customers to throw the food out or return it for a refund. — Read it at CBS News

Study: Humpback Calves “Whisper” to Mom

Researchers have found that newborn humpback whales learn to use muted squeaks to communicate with their moms, perhaps to avoid attracting killer whales. Recordings offer a rare look at the development of the baby whales and a glimpse at the complex interactions they have with their moms while they migrate. The study found the sounds the calves made were about 40 decibels lower than calls produced by singing whales, and up to 70 decibels lower than other social sounds from adults. The study was published in the journal Functional Ecology. — Read it at Live Science

Image: Penguins hand reared

Penguins Cozy Up to Stuffed Animal

Two Humboldt penguins who hatched in the days after Easter are being hand-reared at the ZSL London Zoo because their parents were unable to care for them. The fuzzy gray chicks are fed by hand three times a day and spend their time snuggling with a stuffed animal penguin under a heat lamp in a custom-built incubation room at the zoo. “They make sure we know it’s feeding time – they may be only weeks old but they’ve definitely perfected their squawks already,” said keeper Adrian Walls. Once the chicks are about 10 weeks old, they’ll move to the penguin nursery, where they’ll learn to swim before they’re introduced to the rest of their colony. — Read it at the London Zoo

Cat Trust Falls Into Owner’s Lap

We’ve seen dogs do trust falls, including this one of a Golden Retriever landing in the waiting arms of a giant teddy bear. But we couldn’t imagine most cats being willing to give it a try. Leave it to Didga, who takes part in other un-cat-like activities like skateboarding, to defy expectations. “She ‘trusts’ me to catch her as she falls straight back into my hands,” her owner writes in the YouTube description. “I rescued her from the shelter, so she can trust me. — Watch it at People Pets Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/pet-scoop-residents-rescue-blind-dog-from-lake-penguin-chicks-hand-reared-at-zoo?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/pet-scoop-residents-rescue-blind-dog.html via Susan Esquivel

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Cute Video: Cat Trust Falls Into Owner's Lap

April 28, 2017 at 08:58PM by >br> We’ve seen dogs do trust falls, including this one of a Golden Retriever landing in the waiting arms of a giant teddy bear. But we couldn’t imagine most cats being willing to give it a try. Leave it to Didga, who takes part in other un-cat-like activities like skateboarding, to defy expectations. “She ‘trusts’ me to catch her as she falls straight back into my hands,” her owner writes in the YouTube description. “I rescued her from the shelter, so she can trust me. — Read it at People Pets Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/cute-video-cat-trust-falls-into-owners-lap?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/cute-video-cat-trust-falls-into-owners.html via Susan Esquivel

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5 Adoption Stories We Can’t Get Enough Of

April 28, 2017 at 04:43AM by >br> We love a sweet story about a pet adoption, and once in a while there are those that stick with you — like the Pit Bull whose 8-year-old owner adored him so much that she wrote instructions for his new owner, or the 18-year-old dog whose adopter was so excited to meet her that he was waiting at the shelter when it opened. In honor of National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, we’ve pulled together five of our recent favorites in the gallery below. If you’re thinking about bringing a shelter pet into your life, here’s what you need to know.

EmbeddableSlideshow: EMBEDDABLE SLIDESHOW Favorite adoption stories April 2017

5 Fantastic Forever Homes

slide 1: slide 2: slide 3: slide 4: slide 5:

More on Vetstreet:

Photos: Our Readers' Adorable Adopted Pets

8 Must-Haves for Your New Dog

Advice for Your First Animal Shelter Visit

8 Essentials for Your New Cat

Adding a Second Dog to Your Family? Consider This First

Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/5-adoption-stories-we-cant-get-enough-of?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/5-adoption-stories-we-cant-get-enough-of.html via Susan Esquivel

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I Escaped an Abusive Relationship — Thanks to My Dogs

April 28, 2017 at 04:52AM by >br>

Image: BruceWillyAlmostHeavencreek 335

We love our pets — often, they are like family to us. But when a family dynamic is damaged by abuse or neglect, pets can suffer just like their humans. In domestic abuse, an abuser often exploits a victim’s devotion to a pet to control and manipulate that victim. Too often, abuse victims feel trapped and unable to seek help because they fear for the safety of their pets if they leave. According to the Urban Resource Institute (URI), a provider of domestic violence programs and services in New York City, up to 65 percent of domestic violence victims and 48 percent of battered women delay leaving a dangerous situation out of concern for their pets. (In May of 2013, URI launched a specific program, Urban Resource Institute People and Animals Living Safely, or URIPALS, that houses victims of abuse and their pets.) I am sympathetic to abuse victims who stay: A few years back, I found myself trapped in an emotionally abusive relationship and delayed leaving for the sake of my dogs. At the time, I felt alone and ashamed; I was unable to reach out for help because I believed that no one would understand my situation. Today, though, I know that my story is one shared by many victims of emotional and physical abuse.

The Cycle of Abuse

Growing up, I was a people pleaser, wanting others to like and approve of me. As a teenager, I sought validation from outsiders and learned to put my own needs last. In my early 20s I became involved with a man who preyed on my desire to please. His constant manipulation, unpredictable anger, injurious words, degrading conduct and unfaithful actions left me in a perpetual state of confusion and anxiety. I started to believe him when he blamed me for the problems in our relationship. And yet I stayed with him, despite knowing that it was dangerous for me to do so. I stayed because my critically low self-esteem made it hard to believe that I deserved unconditional love and care. But what really prevented me from leaving the relationship was the terrifying prospect of what would happen to my two Pugs, Bruce and Willy, if I tried to stand up to my abuser or leave him outright. He made it clear that if we split up, he would keep one of the Pugs, even though it was also clear that he had no sincere interest in the dogs. He used them, and his knowledge of my love for them, to control me. In fact, my Pugs were the stable ground I clung to during the storm of emotional abuse and neglect I faced. Their unceasing affection and unparalleled loyalty was a safe harbor for me. Whenever I felt weighed down with discouragement and despair, their wet kisses, wiggly snuggles and donut-shaped tail wags inspired me to keep coming up for air. In the end, it was the dogs that saved me from the abuse. I had resigned myself to the fact that this was life as I would know it and had come to believe that I did not deserve any better. But as soon as I saw my dogs in danger, I knew I had to leave.

Rescuing Bruce — And Myself

One quick interaction changed my whole world. I was in my bedroom getting ready to go out and suddenly I heard a scream. I bolted into to the hallway and saw my abuser standing over Bruce with his clenched fist raised. He had pinned the Pug to the floor with his other hand and was preparing to deliver another blow when he saw me there. I felt so many things in that moment — heartbreak, terror, repulsion, fury, shame. I was raised to believe that a person’s true character is revealed in the way he treats a helpless animal. In my mind, anyone who mistreats or hurts an animal is evil. In that moment, I confronted the truth that I was in a relationship with someone who was dangerous in ways I could not even understand. I could no longer make excuses for him, give him the benefit of the doubt or even hope that he would somehow change. I knew in that instant that I was finally seeing him for who he was. I swept Bruce into my arms and, for the first time, I stood up to my abuser: I told him that if he ever threatened or touched either dog again in a harmful way I would call the police and leave for good. In hindsight, I know that I should have left him right then, but I didn’t. His tearful, pleading remorse made me feel responsible, like it was my job to stay and help him change. But more than that I feared that if I did take action, he would retaliate by taking the dogs — or worse.

The Road to Safety

While I didn’t leave him immediately, I did reach out to family and friends after that incident. I had cut myself off from the people who loved me, largely out of shame, but when I told them what had happened — and what had been happening — they urged me to leave him and get to a safe place. Eventually, I found the strength to do what they asked, even though I was terrified for myself and for my dogs. Unfortunately, my worst fear came true: My abuser chose to keep Bruce with him, sending Willy with me. Driving away from our home and my beloved dog, I was hysterical. My tears were partially from relief, but mostly they were shed in grief of the loss of one of my dogs and the danger he faced as a result. My constant prayer during those days of separation and the resulting legal battle was that I would be able to keep both of my dogs. And that’s exactly what happened: My prayers were answered and the Pugs and I were able to move forward together to heal from our years of abuse and sadness. My story has a happy ending, but there are thousands of other pet owners just like me. I stand as one among many, many victims who have remained imprisoned in an abusive relationship because they fear leaving their beloved pet behind. Unfortunately, pets, who are often the victims’ greatest source of support, are frequently used as leverage by the abuser to intimidate and threaten the victim and prevent her from leaving. This may include everything from neglect or physical injury to the pet’s death.

Finding Solutions for Abuse Victims and Their Pets

According to data reported by URI, 87 percent of batterer-perpetrated incidents of pet abuse are committed in the presence of the victim for the purpose of revenge or control. Children are also devastated by the abuse inflicted on pets: 76 percent of animal cruelty in the home occurs in front of children. Frequently these children will intervene or allow themselves to be victimized to save their pets from being harmed or killed. Unfortunately, the vast majority of domestic violence shelters are not set up to support or house pets: Only an estimated 5 percent of shelters nationwide support pets with onsite housing. By contrast, a national survey found that 85 percent of women in domestic violence shelters reported incidents of a pet being harmed by their abuser, while 63 percent of children discussed pet abuse in their family. In addition, animals were abused in 88 percent of homes where child physical abuse was present and abusers of animals are five times as likely to harm humans. Abusers tend to isolate their victims, both socially and financially, which makes it extremely challenging for the victims to obtain outside support or assistance — and this is compounded when a pet is involved. Often this means that even when resources like shelters and support programs are available, a victim may choose to remain with an abuser rather than abandon a pet in a dangerous situation. This is often a no-win situation for the victim: According to URI, 71 percent of pet owners entering women’s shelters reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control a victim. Thankfully, there are a growing handful of domestic violence resources across the country that provide support for both pets and people. Such shelters allow both human and animal victims to flee to safety together — and in doing so remove one of the greatest barriers for abuse victims seeking help. These shelters also provide veterinary care for pets, who in many cases are in dire need of medical attention. Safe havens that support both pets and people also provide an opportunity for human family members to receive comfort from the ongoing support of a pet as they journey to healing together. I am in a better place now. While Bruce is no longer with us, Willy and my daughter Regan and I have built a wonderful life with my new husband, Ben. But it is important to me to share my story, in the hope that other abuse victims will find the strength to walk away and find a safe place for themselves and their pets. More on Vetstreet:

When a Dog Does Not Behave Like His Breed

6 Signs Your Dog Loves You

Old Man Doug: An Ode to Our 17-Year-Old Dog

Dog Earns Valor Award for Shielding Owner from Domestic Violence

Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/i-escaped-an-abusive-relationship-thanks-to-my-dogs?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/i-escaped-abusive-relationship-thanks.html via Susan Esquivel

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Pet Scoop: Dog Survives After Rescue From Fire, Top Names for April the Giraffe’s Calf

April 27, 2017 at 07:37PM by >br> April 27, 2017: We've scoured the Web to find the best and most compelling animal stories, videos and photos. And it's all right here.

Image: Dog rescued from fire survives

Dog Barely Survives Blaze

Owner Allyson Botterbusch panicked when she arrived at the scene of the fire in her home on April 15 and realized one of her dogs was still inside. York City, Pennsylvania, firefighter Erik Swanson found Nalah in her crate and feared the worst — until he saw her move her head. When he carried her outside, “she was limp in his arms, they had the oxygen mask on her face, and she was covered in soot — I didn’t think she was alive,” Botterbusch said. “As badly as I wanted her to pull through, as badly as I wanted her to come around, I didn’t think that it was gonna happen. But everyone who helped her and helped us along the way — that firefighter pulled her out of there and gave her a chance, these awesome doctors and the staff at this veterinarian office, they worked with her and they saved her and they brought her back to us.” Ten days after firefighters rescued her from a blaze in her home, Nalah is happily recovering, and Swanson and Nalah’s vet are relieved. “That feeling of saving a living creature who means so much to somebody else, is a pretty awesome feeling,” Swanson said. — Watch it at Pennsylvania’s York Daily Record

Giant Rabbit Dies on United Flight

Simon, a 10-month-old Continental Giant rabbit, who could have grown to record-setting size, somehow died on a United Airlines flight from England to Chicago last week. The rabbit was bred in England by Annette Edwards, and was on his way to a new home in the U.S. A veterinarian had declared him to be “in good physical condition” and fit to travel just a day before the flight. But Simon was found dead when the flight arrived. Edwards said she’s flown several bunnies to the U.S., on United and other airlines, without any problems. Both she and the new owner were heartbroken over the news. Headlines about the bunny have been another public relations disaster for United, which has suffered financially after a passenger was forcibly removed in Chicago earlier this month. United said it is reviewing what happened with the rabbit. — Read it at the Chicago Tribune

Whole Foods Goes All Out to Protect Mother Goose

The staff at a Whole Foods store in Colorado has gone above and beyond to make a mother goose who laid her eggs in their parking lot feel safe and welcome. The store’s management contacted wildlife officials, who advised them to leave the mom there with her eggs, unbothered. The staff took that a little further, setting up a barricade around the area, providing her with a kiddie pool that they fill each day with fresh water, and bringing her fresh greens to eat. The chicks are expected to hatch next week, and the store has local police and animal control on call to help if the mom needs to get across the street once her babies are up and moving. — See photos at OneGreenPlanet

Image: Finalist names for April the Giraffe's calf

Zoo Reveals 10 Names for Giraffe

After more than a week of open voting, Animal Adventure Park in New York has released the top 10 suggestions for names for April the giraffe’s famed baby boy. The choices are Apollo, Geoffrey, Gio, Harpur, Noah, Ollie, Patch, Patches, Unity or Alyssa’s Choice, which means the giraffes’ keeper will get to decide on the name. You can vote until April 30, and votes cost $1 each with a minimum of five votes. Money has poured in to the small zoo and its chosen charities thanks to the naming contest. The baby’s name will be revealed on May 1. — Read it at People Pets

Baby Fiona Meets Her Mom

There’s good news about another well-known zoo baby, Fiona, the hippo who was born prematurely at the Cincinnati Zoo. Fiona has been getting more comfortable in the indoor adult pools, and the animal care team has been increasing its depth so she can learn to swim in deep water. In the meantime, Fiona is slowly being reintroduced to her mother, who couldn’t care for her when she was born so early. “Bibi is showing interest in Fiona and watches her eat, sleep, and go in and out of her pool,” the zoo’s Facebook post said. — See photo at the Cincinnati Zoo’s Facebook Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/pet-scoop-dog-survives-after-rescue-from-fire-top-names-for-april-the-giraffes-calf?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/pet-scoop-dog-survives-after-rescue.html via Susan Esquivel

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Mama Shelter Cat Adopts Stray Kitten

April 26, 2017 at 09:26PM by >br> A young kitten got a second chance at life at an animal shelter in Arlington, Virginia. Firefly was very pregnant when she arrived at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, and gave birth to five adorable kittens. Not long after, the shelter took in an orphaned kitten who was about the same age as Firefly’s litter, and decided to see whether the new mom would accept the little guy into her family. “It was immediately clear that Firefly didn't mind having a new kitten one bit — she let him nurse right away!” the shelter said in a Facebook post with a video of the cat family. Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/mama-shelter-cat-adopts-stray-kitten?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/mama-shelter-cat-adopts-stray-kitten.html via Susan Esquivel

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Cat Who Lost Both Ears Becomes Instagram Star

April 25, 2017 at 09:43PM by >br> When Molly Lichtenwalner started looking for a companion to help her cope with her anxiety, she decided she wanted to find a special needs animal who was considered less adoptable. That’s when she found a sweet white cat who had lost both of his ears due to a condition called Otitis externa, which his previous owners left untreated. The kitty had been named Otitis after his ordeal. “He has been nothing but amazing. He immediately adjusted to his new home with me and he truly saved me from my own anxiety. He loves to play and snuggle, and nothing is better than coming home to him and experiencing true unconditional animal love,” Lichtenwalner said. And the kitty has become a star on Instagram, with more than 17,000 people following his adventures. — Read it at People Pets Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/cat-who-lost-both-ears-becomes-instagram-star?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/cat-who-lost-both-ears-becomes.html via Susan Esquivel

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Pet Scoop: Rare Footage Shows Snuggling Snow Leopards, Dog Finds Kitten Trapped in Wall

April 26, 2017 at 07:37PM by >br> April 26, 2017: We've scoured the Web to find the best and most compelling animal stories, videos and photos. And it's all right here.

Image: Snuggling snow leopards

Snow Leopards Cuddle for Camera

Cameras placed by researchers in a remote area of China caught a surprising scene: in a clip compiled from still photos taken over 10 to 15 minutes, one snow leopard walks in front of the camera and joins another for a nap. Soon, a third comes along and crawls on top of them before lying down at the back of the frame. Researchers said the three could be siblings, or a mom and her cubs. “Footage like this takes a bit of skill and a lot of luck,” said Byron Weckworth, program director for Panthera, the big cat conservation group that revealed the footage. Snow leopards are elusive and endangered, with an estimated 4,000 of the big cats left in the wild. — Watch it at the Huffington Post

Study Results in New Family Tree for Dogs

Researchers have sequenced the genes of 161 dog breeds and come up with a comprehensive new evolutionary tree that reveals how different dogs were bred for specific tasks. “What we [found] is four different groups of herders that developed in different parts of the world at different points in time,” said Elaine Ostrander of the National Human Genome Research Institute. “It makes sense, because the dogs that you would need to drive bison on the plains have to have a different set of skills than those who herd goats on rocky territory, which is going to be different than what you use to move sheep in a pastoral setting.” The findings were published in the journal Cell Reports. — Read it at Seeker

Endangered Flying Fox Pup Raised by Keepers

A critically endangered Rodrigues flying fox is now one month old and on her way to recovering, after being rejected by her mom. Keepers at the Oregon Zoo were thrilled when mom Sara gave birth on March 10, but the next day, they found the 2-ounce baby bat on the floor of the habitat. “When you see a baby on the ground, that's not a good sign,” said keeper Laura Weiner. After several failed attempts to reunite the baby with her mom, the pup was brought back to the veterinary hospital, and she’s been hand-raised ever since, getting nine bottle feedings a day. The rare species is native to Rodrigues, an island 900 miles off the coast of Madagascar. — Read it at Zooborns

Image: Angel kitten saved from wall

Family Keeps Kitten Found in Wall

A tiny kitten was rescued from inside the wall of a Houston family’s apartment, thanks to the family’s dog. A few days ago, Little Momma became restless and started barking at the wall. “She would not stop growling so I said, 'What? Show mommy.' But she wasn't looking at the front door, she was looking this way,” said Alexis Guerrero. When she and her husband listened closely, they could hear a cat and kitten. As time went on, they could no longer hear the mom, and the kitten’s cries grew desperate, so they decided to take action and break through the wall to save the baby. The couple’s grandson has named the little gray kitten Angel, and the family has decided to keep the little one, who has a new friend in Little Momma. "I wasn't a cat person before but I guess I'll have to adjust. And we will, right, Angel?" said Guerrero’s husband, Alfred Griffin. — Read it at Houston’s ABC 13

Mama Cat Adopts Stray Kitten

Another young kitten got a second chance at life at an animal shelter in Arlington, Virginia. Firefly was very pregnant when she arrived at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, and gave birth to five adorable kittens. Not long after, the shelter took in an orphaned kitten who was about the same age as Firefly’s litter, and decided to see whether the new mom would accept the little guy into her family. “It was immediately clear that Firefly didn't mind having a new kitten one bit — she let him nurse right away!” the shelter said in a Facebook post with a video of the cat family. — Watch it at Animal Welfare League of Arlington’s Facebook Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/pet-scoop-rare-footage-shows-snuggling-snow-leopards-dog-finds-kitten-trapped-in-wall?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/pet-scoop-rare-footage-shows-snuggling.html via Susan Esquivel

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Pet Scoop: Goats Go for a Ride-Along With Cop, NBC Pundit Seated Beside Dog on Plane

April 25, 2017 at 07:50PM by >br> April 25, 2017: We've scoured the Web to find the best and most compelling animal stories, videos and photos. And it's all right here.

Image: Pygmy goats with police

Lost Goats Picked Up By Police

Two pygmy goats were taken into custody by the Belfast, Maine, police on Sunday — and spent the morning riding around in the back of a patrol car. “Got goats? We do, and they do not belong to us. We had these two little 'kids' turn up on High Street near the parking lot for the rail trail,” the department said in a Facebook post Sunday morning. “They are currently riding around with Sgt. Fitzpatrick, serenading him in goat music. Though he is thankful for the company on this cool Sunday morning, he would gladly return them to their owners. He is running out of vegetables to feed them.” Just a couple of hours later, the police said the kids were identified as Louis and Mowgli, and safely returned to their owner. “Louis and Mowgli enjoyed their day trip with Sgt. Fitzpatrick but alas, all good things come to an end. Perhaps in the next budget year we can inquire as to getting some patrol goats,” the department said in a Facebook update. — Read it at UPI

Eaglet Rescued and Returned to Nest

Last week, viewers of the live cam on the National Arboretum nest belonging to bald eagle couple Mr. President and The First Lady noticed that 3-week-old eaglet DC4 had become perilously lodged in a hole on the outside edge of the nest. When it was clear that the baby couldn’t free itself after a considerable period of time, experts with the American Eagle Foundation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service made the decision to carefully intervene. The eaglet was freed and removed from the nest so it could be examined by veterinarians. DC4 was returned to its home in less than 24 hours and was welcomed back by its parents and sibling. “We could all clearly see how much the eaglet was struggling and how human intervention might make the difference between life and death,” said AEF president Al Cecere. “We had the power in our hands to help, so that's what we did.” — Read it from the American Eagle Foundation

Twin Otter Pups Born in Chicago

Two adorable North American otter pups were born on Feb. 23 to mom Charlotte and dad Benny at Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo, officials announced last week. The brother and sister pups will remain behind the scenes for a bit longer as they bond with their mom and learn how to swim. They are expected to make their public debut later this month. — See photos at the Chicago Sun Times

Image: Charlie seated with Mark Halperin

NBC Pundit Starts Twitter Feud Over Canine Seatmate

NBC political analyst Mark Halperin created a bit of a feud on Saturday when he Tweeted a photo of a cute, bow-tie-wearing dog who was seated next to him as he boarded a flight, with the caption, “Seriously, @delta??!?” As Halperin started to get backlash from dog lovers, he backpedaled, saying his point was that it was a long flight and the airline seated the dog apart from his owner. “We were abt to take off on redeye. Dog was cute. I was sharing pix & expressing surprise owner/dog hadn't been put 2gether.No time for essay,” he said in part of a series of Tweets that followed. However, the Bernedoodle’s owner, Delta flight attendant Anthony Pisano, said the dog was only seated with him next to Halperin at takeoff, and Halperin refused to sit next to the dog. Still, Pisano made it clear there are no lingering hard feelings when he Tweeted a photo of Charlie holding a message for the TV personality: “Dearest Mark, It was a pleasure meeting you, too! Warmest regards, Charlie.” — Read it at the Observer

Cat Who Lost Both Ears Becomes Instagram Star

When Molly Lichtenwalner started looking for a companion to help her cope with her anxiety, she decided she wanted to find a special needs animal who was considered less adoptable. That’s when she found a sweet white cat who had lost both of his ears due to a condition called Otitis externa, which his previous owners left untreated. The kitty had been named Otitis after his ordeal. “He has been nothing but amazing. He immediately adjusted to his new home with me and he truly saved me from my own anxiety. He loves to play and snuggle, and nothing is better than coming home to him and experiencing true unconditional animal love,” Lichtenwalner said. And the kitty has become a star on Instagram, with more than 17,000 people following his adventures. — Read it at People Pets Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/pet-scoop-goats-go-for-a-ride-along-with-cop-nbc-pundit-seated-beside-dog-on-plane?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/pet-scoop-goats-go-for-ride-along-with.html via Susan Esquivel

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Pet Scoop: “Spunky” Prudence Wins Beautiful Bulldog Title, Penguins March for Science

April 24, 2017 at 07:16PM by >br> April 24, 2017: We've scoured the Web to find the best and most compelling animal stories, videos and photos. And it's all right here.

Image: Prudence beautiful bulldog

Judges Fall for Prudence

A 2-1/2-year-old Bulldog named Prudence waltzed into Drake University’s 38th Annual Beautiful Bulldog Contest sporting a sparkling blue tutu on Sunday. But it was the engaging looking in her eyes that won the hearts of the judges at the Iowa university. “Her full name is Prudence Grace With The Precious Face, because when she looks at you with her big brown eyes, you just can’t resist her,” said her owners, Angela and Tom Miller of Des Moines. The energetic but sweet Bulldog had a large cheering section at the contest. Her owners say she loves cuddling in her chair, watching basketball — and eating cookies. And she looked quite comfortable seated in her throne with a crown on her head. “She’s spunky and beautiful with a fun personality, and you can tell she has a great relationship with her owners,” said judge Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Drake’s director of athletics. — Read it from Drake University

Abu Dhabi Highway Closed to Save Kitten

Officials with Abu Dhabi’s civil defense department closed four lanes of a busy stretch of highway to rescue a kitten who’d wandered across the road and was huddled by a median. The team stopped their trucks on the highway and ran out to find the tiny black kitten. A video shows one member slowly approaching and scooping the little one up before it could run away again. The workers then quickly got the kitten into one of the trucks and off to safety. A press release said the department “always deals with such incidents seriously by upholding the humanitarian and animal welfare principles.” — Watch it at Autoblog

Rising Temperatures Threaten Arctic Reindeer Herd

A vast tundra in Norway’s mountainous Lapland region is experiencing high temperatures that are threatening the way of life of the indigenous Sami people who herd reindeer. “We already feel the effects of global warming here,” said Per Gaup, a reindeer herder in his 60s. “I can see that we're losing more reindeer because of climate change.” The climate change affects grazing conditions for the 146,000 reindeer who feed on lichen and moss under the snow. The herders say the reindeer can’t get to the moss because the snow has been thawing and re-freezing, creating thick layers of ice that they can’t break through to eat. — Read it at Seeker

Image: March for penguins

Penguins Join March for Science

Thousands of people joined in the March for Science in cities around the country on Saturday, but the cutest participants may have been at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California. There, endangered African penguins marched through the facility in the March of the Penguins for Science while onlookers held signs supporting them that read, “Science Gives Us Happy Feet” and “Climate Science is Black and White.” The march was streamed live on Facebook and went viral afterward. It’s been viewed more than 2 million times. — Watch it at The Hill

Dog Reunited With Sick Owner in Must-See Video

When he suffered life-threatening complications from the flu, Shane Godfrey had to spend five weeks in the hospital, and lost about 50 pounds. So, his dog, who may have feared he’d lost his owner forever, didn’t even recognize him when the two were finally reunited. Willie stayed with Godfrey’s sister while he was hospitalized. In a video of their reunion, Willie clearly doesn’t know who Godfrey is and even barks at him — until he gets close enough to smell him. In an instant, Willie remembers that smell and turns wild with wiggling, tail-wagging excitement. — Watch it at The Dodo Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/pet-scoop-spunky-prudence-wins-beautiful-bulldog-title-penguins-march-for-science?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/pet-scoop-spunky-prudence-wins.html via Susan Esquivel

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Salma Hayek Says Goodbye to Her Dog Blue

April 21, 2017 at 09:33PM by >br> Actress Salma Hayek turned to Instagram last week to post a heartfelt tribute to her late dog, Blue. “My blue's body died yesterday. I understand he is in a better place but my eyes cry anyway,” she wrote. Two weeks ago, Hayek had said she was relieved that Blue was “bouncing back from a very rare autoimmune disease” thanks to an experimental treatment. Just last year, Hayek lost another dog, Mozart, who was shot on her ranch. Thankfully, this dog lover has several other pooches at home to comfort her as she copes with her loss. — Read it at People Pets Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/salma-hayek-says-goodbye-to-her-dog-blue?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/salma-hayek-says-goodbye-to-her-dog-blue.html via Susan Esquivel

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Pet Scoop: Emotional Reunion for Airman and K9, Salma Hayek Pays Tribute to Her Dog Blue

April 21, 2017 at 07:22PM by >br> April 21, 2017: We've scoured the Web to find the best and most compelling animal stories, videos and photos. And it's all right here.

Image: K9 Emra reunion

Air Force Sergeant Adopts K9

Three years after he last saw her, Air Force Staff Sgt. Adam Wylie was reunited with Emra, the Belgian Malinois he handled while he was stationed in South Korea. Wylie said he thought of Emra as a person while they worked 12-hour shifts together, and he and his family are thrilled to adopt the 9-year-old dog as she retires from the military. Wylie was tearful when he finally got to see Emra on Thursday in Cincinnati, with the help of the non-profit American Humane Association. “I can’t express how happy I am right now to see her,” Wylie said. “I’m just so thankful.” — Watch it at the Cincinnati Enquirer

Study: Migrating Pesticides Threaten Honeybees

Researchers from Cornell University set up 120 pristine honeybee colonies near 30 New York state apple orchards and allowed the bees to forage for several days before examining their “beebread,” which is the place where they store food gathered from pollen. They found acute levels of pesticides in 17 percent of the colonies, and chronic exposure in another 73 percent. "Our data suggest pesticides are migrating through space and time," said lead author Scott McArt. He explained that bees may be gathering pollen from nontarget wildflowers and weeds like dandelions where pesticides seem to linger. The study was published in the journal Nature Scientific Reports. — Read it at Phys.org

New Web Site Matches Dogs With Owners

If you’re looking for a date these days, you might turn to a web site like eHarmony or Match.com. Now, a new site called How I Met My Dog matches people and potential pets based on personality, lifestyle and behavior — rather than just appearance and breed, which is how dogs are often selected, the founders say. After a person seeking a dog fills out a profile, the site matches them with shelter dogs. So far, the service is only available in the Boston area, but the hope is to take it national later this year. — Read it from the AP via U.S. News

Image: Salma Hayek and Blue

Hayek Posts Tribute to Blue

Actress Salma Hayek turned to Instagram last week to post a heartfelt tribute to her late dog, Blue. “My blue's body died yesterday. I understand he is in a better place but my eyes cry anyway,” she wrote. Two weeks ago, Hayek had said she was relieved that Blue was “bouncing back from a very rare autoimmune disease” thanks to an experimental treatment. Just last year, Hayek lost another dog, Mozart, who was shot on her ranch. Thankfully, this dog lover has several other pooches at home to comfort her as she copes with her loss. — Read it at People Pets

Playful Polar Bear Cub Sisters Entertain Visitors

It’s polar bear cub season, and we’re soaking up all the adorable photos of the fuzzy white bears we can as they emerge from their dens! Yesterday, we told you about three cubs who made their debut at the Columbus Zoo. Now, there are photos of two 6-month-old sisters who have been entertaining visitors to the Aalborg Zoo in Denmark with their antics. The twins played, snuggled and slept curled up next to their mom, Malik, as zoo guests watched. — See photos at Zooborns Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/pet-scoop-emotional-reunion-for-airman-and-k9-salma-hayek-pays-tribute-to-her-dog-blue?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/pet-scoop-emotional-reunion-for-airman.html via Susan Esquivel

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Pet Scoop: Trio of Polar Bear Cubs Make Debut, Newborn Kittens Found in Fire Engine

April 20, 2017 at 07:07PM by >br> April 20, 2017: We've scoured the Web to find the best and most compelling animal stories, videos and photos. And it's all right here.

Image: Columbus Zoo polar bears

Baby Bears Step Out in Ohio

Three adorable polar bears are making their public debut at the Columbus Zoo in Ohio this week. Mom Aurora and her twins — a boy and a girl — will make their first public appearance today. Aurora’s own twin, Anana, and her baby girl made their debut on Wednesday. The three cubs won’t be on view together because polar bears tend to raise their babies independently, the zoo said. The zoo’s staff will be naming the twins, but the public will get the chance to decide on Anana’s cub’s name. The choices include Amelia Gray (Amelia means defender and the cub has a little patch of gray fur); Denali (after the mountain peak in Alaska); Elisapee (a native Alaskan derivation of Elizabeth); or Vieta (which means spot, for her little patch of gray fur.) You can vote here until May 2, and the results will be revealed on Mother’s Day. — Read it from the Columbus Zoo’s Facebook

Endangered Galapagos Tortoises Saved From Traffickers

Twenty-nine small Galapagos tortoises, who are vulnerable to extinction, were rescued from alleged traffickers on a bus in Peru, the Galapagos National Park said. Wildlife authorities in Peru found the tortoises in a cardboard box on the bus and seized them. They will be returned to Ecuador. Officials said genetic studies will help determine the zone of archipelago the small tortoises were taken from. — Read it at Phys.org

Last Baby Orca Born at SeaWorld

A year after SeaWorld announced it would stop breeding killer whales, its last orca calf was born at its park in San Antonio, Texas, on Wednesday. Mom Takara, 25, was already pregnant when the company decided to stop breeding the whales in captivity. There are now 23 orcas in residence at SeaWorld’s parks in San Antonio, San Diego and Orlando. Their famed killer whale shows will be phased out by 2019 after the company faced a public backlash, but the whales are expected to remain on display. Veterinarians have not yet determined whether the new calf is male or female, but said everything appears to be going smoothly for the calf and its experienced mom. — Read it from the AP via NBC News

Image: Indianapolis firefighters save kittens

Kittens Rescued From Fire Truck

Firefighters are often called on to help free kittens from car engines. But a crew in Indianapolis found a litter of three in the hose bed of their own truck on Tuesday. The firefighters kept hearing chirping noises and found the newborns — two boys and a girl — huddled together in the back of Engine 35. They believe the mom crawled inside the engine while it was in the shop and gave birth, but they couldn’t find her anywhere. The firefighters wrapped the tiny kittens in blankets and brought them to Noah’s Animal Hospital, where they’re being bottle fed. They will be available for adoption in about eight weeks. — Read it from Inside Edition via Yahoo

Dog With Head Stuck in Jar Rescued

Neighbors in the Fort Worth, Texas, area worked together to get help for a young and scared Pit Bull who was wandering around the area with his head stuck in a plastic jar. Neighbors couldn’t catch the dog and contacted animal control for help. Two animal control officers were able to safely free the dog from the jar. They believe his head became stuck when he tried to reach some food at the bottom of the jar. The 1-year-old dog was nicknamed Pickle after one caller reported there was a pickle jar stuck on his head. Pickle is now recovering at the Fort Worth Animal Shelter, and will be adopted or go to a rescue group when he’s ready. — Read it at Dallas News Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/pet-scoop-trio-of-polar-bear-cubs-make-debut-newborn-kittens-found-in-fire-engine?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/pet-scoop-trio-of-polar-bear-cubs-make.html via Susan Esquivel

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Firefighters Rescue Kittens From Fire Truck

April 20, 2017 at 09:41PM by >br> Firefighters are often called on to help free kittens from car engines. But a crew in Indianapolis found a litter of three in the hose bed of their own truck on Tuesday. The firefighters kept hearing chirping noises and found the newborns — two boys and a girl — huddled together in the back of Engine 35. They believe the mom crawled inside the engine while it was in the shop and gave birth, but they couldn’t find her anywhere. The firefighters wrapped the tiny kittens in blankets and brought them to Noah’s Animal Hospital, where they’re being bottle fed. They will be available for adoption in about eight weeks. — Read it from Inside Edition via Yahoo Original From:http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/firefighters-rescue-kittens-from-fire-truck?WT.mc_id=RSSFeed from Blogger http://positivelybarking.blogspot.com/2017/04/firefighters-rescue-kittens-from-fire.html via Susan Esquivel