News

In my blog, I share a recent publication from researchers at the Royal Veterinary College. They've interviewed owners of brachycephalic breeds (pug, bulldog, French bulldog) to understand the popularity of the breeds despite known and recorded health problems. They conclude that the health problems of these breeds is becoming normalized and so the trend in ownership is unlikely to slow.

In the September issue of NZ Dog World, I discuss the emotional topic of saying goodbye to your dog. As hard as it is to do, when a dog is reaching its end of life, owners should discuss plans for euthanasia with their veterinarian and also decide how they wish to deal with their dog's remains.

This story is found on the internet in a number of places and it seems to be something of an urban myth. But the sentiment is accurate and I thought I would share it on my blog.

Heavier mixed-breed dogs have higher health risks if neutered or spayed early, according to a new study from researchers at the University of California, Davis. The study found mixed-breed dogs weighing more than 44 pounds as adults are at higher risk for one or more joint disorders if neutered before 1 year of age.

Researchers at the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary medicine have found that more than one-fifth of dogs at dog parks in the USA were shedding parasites. Wherever animals are found in large numbers, the risk of parasitic infection will be higher.

Animal behaviour scientists from the University of Lincoln, UK, have discovered that filling your home with appeasing pheromones could be the key to a happy household where both dogs and cats are living under the same roof.

In the August edition of NZ Dog World, I've written about how our dogs feel the cold and ways to keep them warm. Winter's not over yet!

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have looked into the evolution and DNA of sledge dogs in the Arctic. Their history goes back an estimated 9,500 years!

In my latest blog, I talk about the benefits of developing a good understanding of your dog's verbal and non-verbal communication. There are videos of Izzy, too.

“When your children are teenagers, it’s important to have a dog so that someone in the house is happy to see you.”

– Nora Ephron