New Canadian Law Makes It A Criminal Offence To Harm Service Dogs

by Mary Simpson

Published: July 3rd, 2015

new canadian law makes it a criminal offence to harm service dogs

How can this not be a law already?! Thanks to Quanto’s Law, thugs who hurt police, military or service animals will do hard time.

At long last, and following on the heels of similar legislation already introduced in the U.S., Canada has passed their Justice for Animals in Service act.

Named Quanto’s Law (officially called Bill C-35) for a beautiful, Edmonton-based police dog who was killed in October, 2013 by a knife-wielding thug, the law speaks to the importance of protecting all who serve and protect. Prior to this new direction, the best you could expect to charge a suspect with was animal cruelty.

The new law – which seems like a no-brainer to me – has received Royal Assent, making it an offence to kill or injure a law enforcement, military or service animal such as a seeing-eye dog and includes both dogs and horses. Such a crime is punishable by up to 5 years in prison on indictment and 18 months and/or a fine of up to $10,000 on summary conviction.

Hey, aren’t these the same penalties that already apply to animal cruelty charges? Apparently they are, but what this new law does is position the charge within the Criminal Code under the police and peacekeeping officers section. This will ensure the letter of the law is applied in each and every case of a service animal that is maliciously attacked. Okay, so they’ve given the act some much-needed bite.

What I find interesting is that this isn’t the first time such a bill has been pitched to the government. Following the 2006 killing of a Toronto police horse that was deliberately struck by a truck driver, an effort to introduce similar legislation failed to gain traction.

In light of Quanto’s death, it was again brought forward by Ontario Conservative MP Costas Menegakis, and now everyone is listening – as well they should.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Calling All Canadians: Sign The Petition To Ban Electric Shock Collars

We’re with David Suzuki! If you’re Canadian and against the use of Shock Collars on dogs, you’ll want to sign the petition to get them banned. When I first learned that a group in Canada had started a petition to have our new government ban the use and sale of shock collars, I have to admit to being curious as to what exactly is a “shock” collar. Obviously it is intended to zap our little guys into submission whenever we decide that brute force is preferable to kinder, gentler, rewards-based training. And like most of us, I’ve seen those Funniest Home Videos and YouTube submissions that show intoxicated 20-somethings writhing in pain after trying the collar on for size and then of course, barking to activate. So it’s a serious piece of equipment that can cause major pain and has a questionable rationale. Related: New Canadian Law Makes It A Criminal Offence To Harm Service Dogs In checking out a few websites I was intrigued (actually disturbed) by some of the comments made by pet parents. “It is sad to see when they get ‘zapped’, heartbreaking in fact, but they sure learn fast…” “… if you go out for the day and have a barker in the house, don’t use it. … I have seen it zap the dog when the dog did a ‘reverse-sneeze’. If something happened with your dog while you were out which made the collar believe the dog was barking, I’d hate to think of your poor dog sitting there all alone getting zapped all day while you’re not there.” No kidding! Another… “I totally regret trying this! He barked a few times (meaning the level of shock went up a few levels) and afterwards he hid in a corner and was shaking. He was afraid of everyone in the room and kept his tail between his legs. I tried taking him outside to play but he hid under a tree and ignored all his toys! I couldn’t even get him to come back in the house; he just sat at the door, shaking.” Related: “Best Province To Be An Animal Abuser” Introduces New Animal Protection Law Holy cow, I had read enough! I now understand what drove Gwendy Williams and her partner to found this movement over eight years ago and why this week they introduced an on-line petition on Parliament’s new e-petitions portal. Her campaign entitled banshockcollars.ca is asking Canadian animal lovers to sign the petition that demands the collars be banned. “Using pain to train is simply animal abuse” says Williams and her goal is to see a total ban on the sale and use of shock collars on any animal. My modest research aside, many leading animal welfare experts, pet trainers, and humane societies oppose shock collars for the fear and harm that they can induce in animals. The evidence of how damaging shock collars can be to the well-being of our pets and expert testimony can be found on banshockcollars.ca. Williams is taking advantage of a brand new process by which Canadians can submit official petitions to the government online – a decision that was unanimously adopted by Parliament following a motion from MP Kennedy Stewart (Burnaby South) to modernize our democracy with e-petitions. Kennedy has proudly sponsored Williams’s petition which is the first submission via this new process. Also lending their names to her cause is 2015 World Figure Skating Champion Meagan Duhamel and Dr. David Suzuki who are calling on fellow Canadians to support the shock collar ban. They are encouraging the public to get involved to help reach the 100,000 signature goal within the 120 day period. Visit official government petition for more information, or go right to the official government petition and sign now.

RCMP’s Annual Name the Puppy Contest Seeks Names for 13 Mini K-9s

The RCMP needs your help naming 13 soon-to-be police dogs! Kids are invited to enter a contest to name these little K-9s for a chance to win some fabulous prizes. Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is on a search and they’re asking for help from the public – specifically kids 14 and under. You see, they have 13 little fluff balls (AKA German Shepherd pups) that were born at their RCMP Police Dog Service Training Centre in Innisfail, Alberta this year and each one of the little critters is going to need a name before he begin the training that will see him join the ranks of national police dog. Related: New Canadian Law Makes it a Criminal Offence to Harm Service Dogs That’s where kids come in. The Name the Pup contest is an annual event and because last year’s names had to begin with the letter “J”, this year kids are being asked to come up with a name that starts with the letter “K”. Hmmm… wonder what they’re going to do when they hit “X, Y and Z”. Keep in mind these are going to be working police dogs, not pets, so names should reflect a dignity deserving of a K-9 officer. In other words, ixnay names like KiKi, Kissy, and Kookie! Contest Rules: Contestants can suggest only one name (one entry per person).The name must start with the letter “K”.The name must have no more than nine (9) letters.The name must be one or two syllables.Contestants must live in Canada and be 14 years old or younger. The contest closes April 11, with winning submissions announced May 11. The 13 winning names will be chosen by training centre staff and in the event of multiple submissions of the same name, a draw will determine the winning entry. There will be one winner from each province and territory and each of those winners will receive a laminated mug shot of the mini pooch they just named, a plush dog called “Justice” and an official RCMP baseball cap. Related: Dogs are Man’s Best Friend Against Terrorist Attacks If your name wasn’t chosen for one of the 13 pups don’t be disappointed because it may still be considered for other puppies born during the year. But no loot bag for that! So kids, whether your thinking cap is a toque, a sombrero, a tam or a turban, get them on and get creative with your submission. Rumor has it that drawings and paintings are always welcome. Visit the RCMP Name the Puppy site to fill out an online contest form – kids will need their parent’s permission to enter.

Quebec Needs To “Cut the Chain” To Ban Permanent Chaining Of Dogs

If you live in Quebec, the Montreal SPCA wants you to sign a petition that will end the practice of permanent chaining in the Canadian province. Based on the belief that permanent chaining is detrimental to dogs’ physical and psychological well-being, the Montreal SPCA is asking the residents of Quebec to sign their name to a petition written to Minister Christian Paradis that is posted on the cutthechain.ca website and insists this inhumane practice be banned. At present, approximately one-third of all animal cruelty complaints are related to the chaining of dogs who are often left neglected for long periods of time to suffer the elements. My take is that if anything is going to drive a better understanding, perhaps those pet owners responsible for this type of treatment could spend just one weekend (during a particularly frosty Montreal winter) camped out in their dog’s shelter. Related: “Best Province To Be An Animal Abuser” Introduces New Animal Protection Law But cooler heads prevail and following on the heels of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia who have recently introduced bans on permanent tethering, the SPCA feels it’s time Quebec joined the ranks of those that have already taken action. Beyond Canadian borders, more than 20 U.S. states including California, Nevada, Oregon, and Texas have enacted the measure, as has Austria, Germany and Switzerland. The initiative in Quebec was launched as a result of the (promised) major improvements to provincial animal welfare legislation that form part of Bill 54.The SPCA believes that a ban on the permanent chaining of dogs must be part of any upcoming amendments. Their petition to Paradis demands: Prohibition on keeping a dog tied to a stationary object for more than a certain number of consecutive hours or during a certain period of timeProhibition on leaving any dog who has not yet reached maturity, or who is ill, injured or unsterilized, tied up unattendedProhibition on keeping a dog tethered outdoors during extreme weather conditions Related: New Canadian Law Makes It A Criminal Offence To Harm Service Dogs Montreal’s SPCA states that “Chained dogs are at increased risk of injuring themselves and are frequently neglected. They are exposed to extreme cold in the winter, and suffocating heat in the summer. Isolated, unable to socialize, play, exercise, or express natural behaviour, chained dogs develop severe boredom and frustration, eventually leading to psychological distress.” Tethering also raises serious public safety concerns as due to their inability to flee a perceived threat, dogs that are tied up can act out aggressively and have been shown to be nearly three times more likely to bite than dogs no tethered, and more than five times more likely to bite children. Visit cutthechain.ca to add your name to those supporting this initiative.

City Of Mississaga Passes Dog Tethering Restrictions Bylaw

Do you hate seeing a dog chained up in a backyard for endless stretches of time? So does Mississauga city council, and they’ve passed a bylaw to limit time and areas of dog tethering. As we enter the “most wonderful time of the year”, we’re also heading into the coldest time of the year and for many animals that are tethered in their yards for long periods of time, it’s a dangerous season that some won’t survive. While the City of Toronto’s animal Services is looking at the possibility of introducing tethering time restrictions as part of a review of their existing bylaw (next Spring!), I am proud to say that my City of Mississauga has already stepped up to the plate when it comes to safeguarding our furry citizens. Related: Quebec Needs To “Cut the Chain” To Ban Permanent Chaining Of Dogs I was fortunate to sit in on the discussions and consultations surrounding this issue last year and the outcome was not only a time limit to how long your pooch can be tied up outside but also that you must be with him if he is tethered in an area other than your own back yard or that he be in plain view at all times. It also states that you cannot use a choke chain or prong collar when tying him up for a period of time and that the tether must be at least three meters in length (9.84 feet)to allow your pooch to move safely and unrestricted if he needs to reach shade or safety. All this, in addition to the four-hour by-law limit that precludes him from being stuck out in the yard when you head off to work or for a day of shopping. Related: New Canadian Law Makes It A Criminal Offence To Harm Service Dogs In the U.S., dog tethering bylaws have attracted mucho attention because of their stringent guidelines and penalties. In Fairfax County, Virginia, residents can face steep fines and even jail time if they are caught leaving dogs tied up outside unsupervised for more than one hour. Oshawa’s city council is going to vote on a regulation similar to Mississauga’s in early December and Len Butticci, a member of the board of directors with the Humane Society of Durham Region is a leading advocate for this bylaw change. According to Butticci, it’s important to get “something” in terms of a law to protect dogs. “What we see are many cases where collars are embedded into their necks. Where they’re choked. Where they’re kept outside during cold winter days, and hot summer days without adequate food and shelter.” As a result, he will pursue a time limit of one hour – albeit without the Fairfax County-inspired jail time. Elizabeth Glibbery, manager of Toronto Animal Services, said the department will be holding public consultations on the issue as “For the last two years, we’ve noticed an increase in complaints with respect to tethering and the length of time an animal is tethered.” Mostly for pets on private property. Shame it can’t happen before the snow flies, Liz! Animal advocates throughout North America are targeting local bylaws in a bid to end this cruel practice which they point out, can lead to aggressive dogs. I guess it’s really down to the basic “fight or flight” theory – if you feel threatened and know you cannot get away, fight is the only option. What a sad existence for man’s best friend.

September Is National Service Dog Month

National Service Dog Month shines a spotlight on all the wonderful ways these specially trained dogs help make our lives better. In 2008, inspired by the guide dogs he had seen in his travels, Dick Van Patten worked to make September National Guide Dog Month. As the founder of Natural Balance, a pet food company, Van Patten initially partnered with Petco to raise money and awareness for the work performed by guide dogs. Later, the event expanded to celebrate guide dogs and other working dogs. Now, September is hailed as National Service Dog Month. The month honors dogs who work tirelessly to make our lives better and easier. Related: Top 10 Therapy Dog Breeds In addition to dogs who help their seeing- or hearing-impaired human partner, there are dogs trained to alert their person of an impending seizure. Other dogs are psychiatric helpers, who are specially trained to help with anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. Dogs keep our military heroes safe and work in bomb detection. Other dogs partner with local law enforcement agencies to keep our cities safe. Related: New Canadian Law Makes It A Criminal Offence To Harm Service Dogs There isn’t a limit to what dogs can do to help their human partners, and September’s National Service Dog Month honors them for all that they do. To get involved, consider volunteering or donating to an organization like Guide Dogs for the Blind. Share stories of service dogs on social media to spread awareness. And give thanks to all the dogs who give of themselves, not just in the services mentioned, but also as loving family pets who partner with humans every day. What will you do to celebrate or bring attention to the service dogs in your life or those who work in your community?

How Do I Know if My Dog is Afraid?

Experts often talk about the importance of reading your dog’s body language to reduce fear, stress, and anxiety. But do you sometimes struggle to identify if your dog is really scared or if you’re just reading into a situation? Many common dog behaviors can be misinterpreted – fear or calm, comfort or stress. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. We are here to help! This post dives deep into the basics of canine communication and body language. We’ll highlight some of the more subtle body language cues, behavioral changes, and vocalization that you should be looking out for. Plus, we’ll look at the most common situations that trigger fear in dogs, why these situations can be frightening, and how to comfort and support your dog moving forward. What’s the ultimate goal? Ensuring you have the information needed to build your dog’s confidence, improve your communication, and help them enjoy a world free from unnecessary fear and anxiety. Dedicate the time and energy today to set your dog up for long-term success (avoiding potential health complications from too much stress). Common Signs of Fear and Anxiety in Dogs Life as a pet parent would be much easier if our pups could speak up and tell us exactly what they think in each situation. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality we live in. Instead, we must learn to pick up on their non-verbal communication to build a strong and trusting relationship with our furry friends. Here are a few ways they may be trying to tell you that they are feeling “off” or nervous: Body Language One of the most important ways our pets communicate their feelings is through their body language. This includes the way they stand, the way they move, how they hold their ears or their tail, and so much more. Some signs will be obvious, while others will be more subtle. Here are some of the more common signs of fear and stress related to body language: Excessive panting YawningShowing teethLip-licking Puckering of the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupils Ears backward or pressed forward Tail up and stiff or down tucked between the legsCowering or standing with the body low to the ground Attempting to hide Displacement behaviors (sneezing, itching)Shaking or trembling Submissive urination Behavior Changes In addition to changes in how your dog stands or positions their body, you may notice some behavioral changes. You may find that your dog tries to back away or avoid their trigger. On the other hand, your dog may become reactive towards a trigger by jumping or lunging at it. Both these reactions signify stress or anxiety, highlighting the importance of getting to know your dog as an individual. For example, we have two male dogs in our house. When presented with a trigger, Lucifer will hold his ground while Indiana tends to back away or hide.You may also notice changes in how your dog reacts to objects or activities in their regular life. Many dogs, even those who are highly food-driven, will be reluctant to eat or take treats when stressed. Vocal Cues Finally, while we are focusing mainly on non-verbal communication, there are some vocalizations that could help you recognize that something is wrong. Dogs who are nervous, anxious, or afraid may bark at their trigger. They may also whine to show that they are uncomfortable.

The US National Park Service is Being Sued Over Stray Cats

The US National Park Service was sued by a non-profit organization due to its controversial plan to remove the famous stray cats of Puerto Rico, a historic district in the US territory. The lawsuit was filed by  Alley Cat Allies, a non-profit based in Maryland, and it comes four months after the radical announcement that left many in shock. The Federal agency revealed that it would contract an animal welfare organization to remove around 200 stray cats that live in Puerto Rico’s historic seaside fortress in Old San Juan. What the organization still hasn’t decided upon is whether the captured stray cats would be placed in foster homes, kept in shelters, adopted, or face a different fate. What is more, the federal agency did not reveal if a third-party organization has been hired yet. The National Park Service also added that it would hire a “removal agency” if the organization it contracted ultimately failed to remove the cats within a six-month period. The news caught many by surprise, as many locals – and tourists alike – loved the cats, and many considered them a delight and a local attraction. Alas, many considered the cats a nuisance too, as the National Park Service stated in a report in 2022 that the cat population in the city had grown out of proportions and that the smell of feces and urine in the area was becoming too strong.The announcement of their plan roused many animal rights activists, who say that six months is not enough to remove such a great number of cats. They fear that, as a result, many cats would be killed. Ultimately, the Alley Cat Allies filed its lawsuit in an effort to ensure the best possible outcome for the felines in question. They requested additional environmental statements from the National Park Service, and asked that “a judge find its actions allegedly violate acts including the National Environmental Protection Act.” It remains to be seen what will be the fate of these kitties – but one can only hope they won’t be harmed in the process. 

Does Your Dog Have What it Takes to Be a B.A.R.K. Ranger?

Is your dog your favorite adventure buddy? Do you dream of exploring America’s National Parks system with your furry best friend by your side? While many parks have limitations on where dogs are allowed, the popularity of pet-friendly travel is on the rise. In response, the U.S. National Park Service introduced a program to teach dog parents how to travel with their pups responsibly – the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program. But does your dog have what it takes to be a B.A.R.K. Ranger? What is involved in earning that title anyway? In this article, we will break down the B.A.R.K. principles and why they are so important for responsible outdoor travel. We will also share tips for helping your dog become a certified B.A.R.K. ranger. What Does the Acronym “B.A.R.K.” Stand For? Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, and what does the acronym “B.A.R.K.” stand for? Recognizing that a growing number of dog parents wanted to bring their pups with them when visiting the parks, the U.S. National Park Service recognized a need for education on how to travel with dogs responsibly. This means focusing on the importance of respecting the environment, local wildlife, and other visitors to the park. This program is a partnership between the National Park Service (NPS) and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). It is part of the Healthy Parks Healthy People Initiative, which is focused on the idea that “parks can be gateways to good health – for people and the planet.” The B.A.R.K. acronym stands for: B – Bag your pet’s wasteA – Always leash your petR – Respect wildlife K – Know where you can goThe concept is similar to the traditional Leave No Trace principles but focuses on how a dog may impact the environment and the overall park experience. What Are the Qualifications to Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger? The good news is that the requirements to become a B.A.R.K. Ranger are very broad. The program is open to dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and activity levels. From the senior chihuahua who prefers to be carried along the trail while still enjoying the fresh air to the high-energy Border Collie who could hike for days without stopping, all are welcome! So, does your dog meet the qualifications? As long as they are dog – YES!What is the Process of Getting Your Dog’s B.A.R.K. Ranger Certification? This is where the conversation becomes a little more complicated. While the B.A.R.K. Ranger program is a National Park Service program, the exact requirements to be named a B.A.R.K. Ranger vary from park to park. This allows each park to customize the program to best suit its area and the needs of those who visit each park specifically. At some parks, you will be asked to take a booklet and fill it out. Once you have completed the booklet, you will receive your commemorative leash tag. At other parks, a program is offered that you will attend to learn more about the B.A.R.K. principles and how they can be applied in your travels. Finally, some parks make it incredibly easy. They ask those interested to learn about the B.A.R.K. principles at home before coming to the park. Upon arrival, the dog's parents are asked if they understand and agree with them. They then take a pledge to follow these principles before their dog is given the coveted title.

A Six-legged Abandoned Dog Has Surgery to Remove Extra Limbs

A six-legged cocker spaniel found abandoned in a supermarket parking lot in Wales has had surgery to remove her extra limbs. The pooch was named Ariel, after the Little Mermaid, because her extra limbs were fused together, resembling a mermaid’s tail. Greenacres Rescue, a non-profit group from Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales, took Ariel in, arranged her surgery, and found her a foster family.  Ariel, who was born with multiple birth defects, was operated on at Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital. Surgeon Aaron Lutchman performed the surgery and managed to save all four limbs amid fears that one hind leg might have to be amputated. “She’s doing really well, she’s bounced back and she’s a happy little dog and we’re hoping she’s going to go on to lead a fabulous little life,” said Lutchman. “She’s got her own little character and even though she’s had a tough start in life she really has done well to come through this as she has… if we can do what we can to help then that’s just absolutely brilliant.” According to Mikey Lawlor, founder and manager of Greenacres Rescue, Ariel was skinny and distressed when she was rescued. “The vet who initially assessed Ariel noted that, in addition to her two surplus back legs, she also had an additional vulva,” said Lawlor. A CT scan later revealed that Ariel was born with only one kidney, which increased the complexity of the medical treatment she required. Unfortunately, the pup’s pelvis never formed properly because she had two hip joints on one side of the body. As a result, Ariel’s normal hind leg had no muscle tone, so there was a chance that that leg had to be amputated as well. “Thankfully, that wasn’t the case though as it’s shown signs of having strengthened a lot in recent months,” Lawlor added.Ariel is recovering nicely after her surgery, having lots of love and fuss from the nursing team. Now that the surgery is behind her, everyone is hoping that she’ll have an easy and quick recovery.“There were two procedures which lasted about two hours, but both went fine. The next day she was up, walking around and eating and drinking.”“Now we just need to keep our fingers crossed she doesn’t get any infections, but she really is in the best of hands,” added Lawlor according to BBC. The brave pooch was discharged over the weekend and has already returned home to her foster family in Wales. According to her vet, Ariel has to rest for the next two weeks to recover completely. The founder of Greenacres Rescue hopes that the organization will be able to find a forever home for Ariel after she completes physiotherapy and recovery. “The response we had to Ariel’s story so far, including calls and emails from as far away as New York and Australia, has been incredible - so I’ve no doubt she’ll be snapped up,” said Lawlor.“I just can’t say enough of a thank you to everyone who’s contributed to helping her.” The organization raised around $19,000 for Ariel’s life-changing surgery thanks to donations from people all over the world.“Ariel was a complicated little dog whose care required close collaboration across a number of our specialist teams, including orthopedics, soft tissue surgery, anesthesia, and radiology,” said Vicki Black, the director of Langford Vets’ Hospital. “As part of the University of Bristol, we are a center committed to career-long learning and are proud to innovate and treat pets like Ariel. We are delighted such a lovely animal has recovered well from her surgery.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

World’s Largest Cruise Ship Welcomes a Super Cute Dog as a Resident

“Icon of the Seas” might have been known as the largest cruise ship until this year, but now, everybody will know it as the ship with a permanent doggy resident – Rover, a cute Lab with (apparently) four sea legs!Ever since coming on board, Rover has been the focus of social media posts by the cruise ship’s crew members. Based on the posts, the adorable pooch boarded the ship while it was stationed in Ponce, Puerto Rico, just as it was about to finish its journey in Miami, Florida. And soon enough, Rover, who is a young  Labrador Retriever, became the ship’s very own mascot and likely everybody’s favorite resident.After all, Rover was so friendly and loveable that it took only one day for the crew to decide that he would become the permanent resident of the vessel – that takes some serious charm, ya know?“Meet Rover,” one Instagram post said, “the Resident Mascot of the Icon. He just came on board today. He’s a friendly Labrador who’s going to be the permanent resident of the World’s Largest Cruise Ship, Icon of the Seas.”The crew all quickly gathered around to ensure that Rover would be given the best possible care in his new role of “Chief Dog Officer”. Allison, one of the crew members is originally from Australia and has been a member of the crew for five years. She ensures that Rover receives plenty of treats and a ton of love. "As a crew member on Icon, Rover's job is to bring joy to her fellow crew and guests onboard. All the while, she gets to explore the Caribbean shores and beautiful ports," she said. Even though Rover had been on the ship for just a short time, he did not fail to capture everyone’s heart. He enjoyed walks on the “lido” deck and even visited the Captain in The Bridge - a privilege reserved only for the select few. And, in no time, many other crew members chimed in on social media welcoming the doggo onboard. "We are absolutely thrilled to introduce our newest team member, Rover, who has joined us as a permanent resident aboard the magnificent Icon of the Seas," said  @godwin_fernandes2000.So much so, that even Royal Caribbean, the company behind the Icon of the Seas, posted about Rover on their own official account! Now, Rover found his new forever home – in the unlikeliest of all places: a cruise ship. And if you want to follow the adventures of this sea-faring puppy, be sure to check out his Instagram account  @chiefdogrover where they’ll be documented!

What Shapes Your Dog’s Personality? Harvard Neuroscientists Reveal

No two dogs are the same – each pooch has a personality of their own, complete with unique quirks and traits. But why is your dog the way they are? What shapes their personality and character? Why do they behave in a unique way, even when they belong to a certain breed with a distinct set of traits?This is the question that Erin Hecht, assistant professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard, is trying to answer. She is doing this through  The Canine Brains Project and recently held a  talk - centered on canine neuroscience - that was organized by Harvard’s Brain Science Initiative.According to Hecht, dogs have the potential to teach us so much about brain development, especially considering the fact that they were domesticated about 20,000 to 40,000 years before the present – which, on the evolutionary timeline, is quite recent. “Darwin saw dogs as a window on mechanisms of evolution,” Hecht said. “When we’re looking at dogs, as a natural experiment and brain behavior evolution all we have to do is look at their brains and see what evolution did in order to satisfy those selection requirements.”Hecht’s efforts were benefited by her lab, which performs MRI scans of dog brains – roughly 100 per year. They also conduct owner surveys that examine dogs’ work skills, especially those “ancient” ones, like hunting, guarding, herding, fetching, and so on. All this is then compared to breed parameters, like body size, skill size, and overall shape. “About 80 percent of the dogs living on the planet today are what’s known as village dogs. These are free-ranging animals that live as human commensals. So they’re living within human society, but they’re not pets,” Hecht said.Through such research, Hecht is hoping to determine what exactly shapes a dog’s personality. Through her lab work, she connects personality and skill differences in dogs to six special regions of their brains:-the regions controlling drive and reward -olfaction and taste-spatial navigation-social communication and coordination-fight or flight -and olfaction and vision“There has been very strong recent specific selection in individual breeds rather than founding effects in ancestral founding populations,” Hecht said. “So then we can look at behavior and ask whether the types of behaviors that different lineages have been selected for historically … [explain] each dog’s anatomy and these six brain networks. And it seems like there are some interesting relationships here.”But most importantly, it is concluded that these neural pathways are greatly impacted by the shape and size of a dog’s skull. “It stands to reason that if you’re manipulating the shape of a skull, you’re going to be manipulating the shape of the brain,” Hecht said. “But this confirms that dogs with these extreme skull morphotypes have impacts on their brain anatomy that likely affects behavior.”She also adds that even though some dogs have a brain “makeup” that suggests a unique disposition, it doesn’t “lock” them into a set behavior pattern. This is especially true for working skills. “Training is almost always necessary. I have yet to hear of any particular breed of working dog, where it’s just born knowing how to do its job,” Hecht said.So, a look “inside” your doggo’s brain might reveal why they are just the way they are. Would you be curious enough to let scientists take a peek?

Guinness World Records Reviews Bobi’s 'World's Oldest Dog' Title

A Portuguese dog named Bobi made news last year when Guinness World Records crowned him as the world’s oldest dog. Bobi was 31 years and 165 days old when he died at his home last October.However, Guinness World Records has now suspended Bobi’s title after complaints made by veterinarians and professionals questioning the legitimacy of his age.Bobi, who was a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, was also declared the world’s oldest dog ever, breaking a nearly century-old record held by an Australian cattle dog, named Bluey, who died in 1939 at the age of 29 years and 5 months. The average life expectancy of a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo is 12 to 14 years.A spokesperson for the Guinness World Records explained that the review into Bobi’s record is ongoing and it includes looking over the evidence again, looking for new evidence, and talking to experts and all those linked to the original application. “While our review is ongoing we have decided to temporarily pause both the record titles for oldest dog living and (oldest dog) ever just until all of our findings are in place and have been communicated,” said the spokesperson, according to CBS News.Several skeptics pointed out that Bobi’s feet appear to be of different color in photos of him as a puppy and in recent pictures of him in his old age. A Lisbon vet, Miguel Figuereido said last year that Bobi doesn’t really look like a very old dog with mobility problems and an old dog muscle mass. Additionally, an investigation by Wired discovered that Bobi had been formally registered on Portugal’s pet database in July 2022. Leonel Costa, the dog’s owner, registered Bobi as being born in 1992, but there hasn’t been any proof, other than the owner’s word. According to Portuguese law, dogs born before 2008 didn’t have to be registered until October 2020. The Portuguese database for dogs, cats, and other pets also told Wired that they weren’t contacted by Guinness World Records to verify the information. Many other veterinarians and canine experts have questioned Bobi’s true age in correspondence to the Guinness World Records. A veterinarian and council member of the Royal Colledge of Veterinary Surgeons, Danny Chambers, told the Guardian, “Not a single one of my veterinary colleagues believe Bobi was actually 31 years old.”Guinness World Records insists that the suspension is temporary while the review is ongoing.Bobi spent his whole life living with the Costa family in the village of Conqueiros, in Portugal. The pooch, who was allegedly born on May 11, 1992, escaped death in his first days of life. Bobi, along with three other puppies, was born in a woodshed belonging to the Costa family. But, because they already owned many animals, the parents decided to get rid of the newborn puppies.One puppy - Bobi - was unintentionally left behind and discovered days later. Bobi’s owner, Leonel Costa, who was eight, and his sister persuaded their parents to keep the pup, and so he remained living with the family.Leonel Costa defended Bobi’s title saying that “an elite within the veterinary world…tried to give people an idea that Bobi’s life story was not true.”Costa believes this happened because he attributed Bobi’s longevity to a varied diet of human foods, rather than pet food. He said this goes against the recommendations of many veterinarians. “Everything would be different if we had said he (Bobi) ate pet food for three decades,” said Costa, adding that they’d provided everything Guinness World Records requested to validate Bobi’s age. Bobi has never been chained up or put on a leash and used to roam the woods around the village until he got too old to move much. He spent his golden years lounging in the yard with the family cats. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

A new and revolutionary drug that could possibly extend the lifespan of healthy, senior dogs, is now entering a major clinical trial. It also has a first patient - an 11-year-old Whippet named Boo. Going by the codename LOY-002, this drug is designed to provide a few more years to senior dogs of most sizes. It is the product of a startup biotech company called  Loyal and is the fruit of their hard work and arduous research. Celine Halioua, the founder and CEO of Loyal, said that the company is working hard to develop several products aimed at the longevity of dogs. One of their initial projects, the LOY-001, was a drug aimed to extend the lifespan of giant and large dog breeds. In November of 2023, this project received the support of the FDA, paving the way for the company's further successes. The underlying mechanisms of aging were the first focus of the company as it developed LOY-001. The drug works by reducing IGF-1, an insulin-like growth factor that is a key biomarker hormone that drives cell growth. It is believed that this reduced the lifespan of extra-large dogs. Similarly, the LOY-002 project aims to extend the lifespan of normal-sized dogs, by improving their metabolic health and thus delaying the onset and the impact of diseases that come with old age. “LOY-002 is a slightly different mechanism [than LOY-001] for senior lifespan extension. It’s a little bit more of a reversal mechanism. It’s not going to make a 10-year-old dog a puppy, but we’ve seen a rescuing in age-related functional decline in dogs that have been treated with this drug,” said Halioua in an interview with  dvm360.The newest study for LOY-002 is expected to last 4 years, and include one thousand enrolled dogs. “It will be one of the largest veterinary clinical studies that, as far as we know, has ever been run,” added Halioua.The first ever receiver of the drug, Boo, was enrolled into the program in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, at the Animal Hospital of Dauphin County. There, an associate veterinary and STAY study investigator, Coby Rudakewiz, became a part of the program for the first time, witnessing its incredible potential. “I’m genuinely excited to be able to share what we’ve seen as a life-changing product to dogs of all sizes,” he said.“This is what it’s all about - keeping dogs feeling their best to enjoy a long life with their owners who love them.”“The launch of this study brings us one step closer to helping senior dogs have more, healthier years with their families…The scale and complexity of STAY reflect Loyal’s commitment to creating demonstrably effective and safe products,” Halioua added. “This is a massive undertaking that wouldn’t be possible without the partnership of the many veterinarians and technicians operating the study in their clinics, and the participating dogs and owners helping advance therapies for all dogs.”For the time being, the company is working hard to receive conditional approval for its revolutionary drug. This would allow them to begin offering it through veterinarians as soon as 2025. This could mean a world of difference for many senior doggos and their families. Seeing your senior doggo enjoy a few extra years without the issues common to old age is nothing short of true happiness, and would mean that the company’s hard efforts were not in vain. Ultimately, this innovative drug gives us hope for the future and makes us wonder what other ground-breaking drugs could we see in the years ahead.

Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

Organizations Donate Free Food to Help Owners Keep Pets

The high cost of living forces many pet owners to consider rehoming their pets.

Can Cats Get Frostbite?

When a cat is exposed to extremely cold conditions, they are at risk of frostbite, which may require professional veterinary care. But what is frostbite, what puts a cat at risk of frostbite, and what can be done to treat it? Here’s a short guide to help you better understand this condition and keep your cat safe.

What Size of Cage Does My Hamster Need?

Final Thoughts: The Best Hamster Cage SetupWhen setting up your hamster’s habitat, consider the floor space available. They are active and energetic creatures that need to be able to run, demanding more freedom to move than is often available in the overly hyped commercial cages. Instead, ensure the cage offers at least 24” by 12” of floor space on the main floor. Several cage styles are available, including wire cages, glass aquariums, and plastic pens. If you want to extend their habitat with a second floor, be cautious about the risk of injury. A long fall can be catastrophic. Include all necessities on the main floor of your hamster’s cage. This includes plenty of bedding to burrow into, clean hay, chew toys/enrichment opportunities, an appropriately sized exercise wheel, and access to fresh food and water. A proper habitat is the foundation for a happy, healthy life for your furry friend! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Stray Dog Becomes Surrogate for Abandoned Puppies at Texas Shelter

A stray Great Pyrenees dog, found wandering the streets of Fort Bend County, Texas, became a surrogate mother to a litter of six abandoned puppies.In late October, a concerned citizen found an abandoned litter of puppies. After failing to locate the pups’ mother in the surrounding area, the person brought the puppies to Fort Bend County Animal Services. “They were tiny, needing immediate bottle feeding and care, they were just about a week to 10 days old,” said Rene Vasquez, the director of Fort Bend County Animal Services, to PEOPLE.Although the puppies arrived at the shelter in good condition, they were starving and needed nourishment ASAP. The Fort Bening County Animal Services took to social media to look for fosters to take in the puppies and provide them with around-the-clock bottle feedings. Around the same time, another local found a stray Great Pyrenees, named Nova, who was full of milk. While it was clear that Nova had a litter recently, her puppies were nowhere to be found. The woman who found Nova saw the shelter’s online call for help and decided to contact them with a different idea. Instead of using volunteers to do the bottle feedings, she suggested bringing Nova by to see if the dog would accept to nurse the puppies. The shelter loved this idea and decided to give Nova a chance. A few seconds after Nova met the puppies it became apparent that the shelter made the right decision. “Nova was so happy to see the puppies! She took to them right away, and they were very happy to have a mama and food,” Vasquez shared. Although the abandoned puppies aren’t Nova’s biological litter, she accepted them as if they were her own. Acting like a true momma, Nova quickly allowed the pups to nurse and cuddle close to her for warmth. Thanks to Nova’s maternal instincts the puppies are doing well and growing quickly.“We were so happy that Nova was able to step up and be a mom for them. Sometimes, it is difficult to find bottle feeders and fosters for when the puppies or kittens are so little, so to have a nursing mom available to accept the babies is definitely a good day,” said Vasquez. Nova and the puppies, five boys and one girl, are currently living in a foster home. The fosters caring for the four-legged bunch plan to adopt Nova once the puppies are weaned. “The puppies will stay with Nova until they are weaned, and then we will start looking for homes for them. They will also be vaccinated, microchipped, and fixed before going to their forever homes,” the shelter’s director added. The case of Nova and her adopted litter has a happy ending, but not all stories end on a positive note. “As an industry, we are facing a real crisis in animal welfare across the country with an abundance of stray animals and not enough adopters or fosters to help the overcrowded shelters and rescues. Nova and her puppies illustrate the importance of spaying and neutering,” said the Fort Bend County Animal Services director.Shelters around the country are struggling to take in new animals due to a lack of forever homes and overcrowding. Each year, millions of pets end up in shelters across the nation, most of which are never adopted into a forever home. If you’re looking for a four-legged companion, visit your local shelter or rescue organization to see which of their residents would make a perfect addition to your home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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