“Good Guys” Canine Genetic Research
Finnish researcher Hannes Lohi is doing very interesting genetic research at the University of Helsinki that will probably end up helping both dogs and people. Good news: using DNA, not animal testing.
In co-operation with various breed organizations and breeders, he has collected a DNA bank that contains up to 40,000 samples from over 250 dog breeds. The DNA samples are connected to the diseases and the lineage of a particular dog. This way, the emphasis is on helping the dogs overcome the diseases that they have, to connect them to the various blood lines to help breeders avoid genetically inherited problems. He is also looking into using the information to help people without using the usual methods of animal testing.
So, you want to check my DNA? Fine, as long as I get to stay on the couch!
You can read more – also in English! by checking out this link:
Be Kind to Animals Week October 1 – 7, 2012
It is great that we dedicate a week to emphasize being kind to animals. In the ideal world we would all have respect for nature and the living things around us, including animals, wild and domestic. The next best thing is to work on achieving these goals.
For more information, go on the web site Be Kind to Animals Week
Get Kittens and Puppies Fixed!
Spring is the time for (unfortunately) many unplanned births of kittens and puppies. If you have puppies or kittens, please get them spayed and neutered and find them good homes. You can do this economically by contacting your local No More Homeless Pets organization. They run specials all the time, have a mobile “Big Fix” truck and they also give discounts and even free services to people who qualify. To find out more, please visit their web site (see below).
No More Homeless Pets Spay and Neuter Programs
Pet Food Recall Due to Salmonella
If you use any of the Diamond brands, please contact the company, as they have recalled some of their foods due to salmonella contamination. Few people have gotten sick from the exposure to the dog food.
Here are links to Reuters and to Diamond Pet Foods web sites.
Chicks and Salmonella
Local news reports that we should consider carefully about before giving chicks in Easter baskets. The likelihood of them having salmonella was listed as the reason. You can read the complete story at KSL web site – href=”http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=19901953&title=officials-giving-easter-chicks-can-spread-salmonella&s_cid=queue-9″ title=”Officials: Giving Easter chicks can spread salmonella” target=”_blank”>Officials: Giving Easter chicks can spread salmonella
Needless to say, we have a strong opinion about giving chicks in baskets, period. It seems unwise to surprise someone, especially a child, with a gift that is a living being requiring care. So, we did want to bring attention to this story form the point of view that it is unwise, not necessarily because of the salmonella threat, but because we are worried what happens to the little chick after Easter. Read more on our blog.
Controversial Takes About Feral Cats
According to a recent coyote study, they eat feral cats. Different groups are debating the usefulness of the trap, neuter and release programs as many of the cats still have a tough life. We realize that the life of a feral cat is not ideal, but believe that because of the current pet overpopulation problem the trap neuter and release programs are necessary.
You can read the complete story by following this link: KSL Coyote Story. Read the story and watch the video.
The Proof Is In: Having a Pet is Good for You
