News

Heart of the Beast is a survival story that pays homage to the human-animal bond. Odin, the tripod German Shepherd, fights to survive with his ex-military partner, James Belmont (Brad Pitt). Filmed in New Zealand, it's well worth seeing on the big screen to appreciate the scenery. Not a relaxing movie, you can safely watch it because the dog doesn't die - something you learn in the first scene.

The quote of the month is from author and editor, J. R. Ackerley. If you are a German Shepherd lover, then his memoir, My Dog Tulip, is a must-read.

In the September 2026 issue of NZ Dog World, I discuss the TCVM practice of food therapy. Foods are considered warming, cooling and neutral but it is not about temperature - but about the food's energetic properties.

There are two groups of home buyers: those with dogs and those without. Buyers with dogs value certain amenities and, in a buyer's market, sellers can prioritise these aspects to receive offers and confirm a sale.

Stroke patients who completed rehabilitation exercises with a therapy dog worked harder than those who did the same exercises alone in this small study. More research is needed!

I love books. This month's quote is from author Gail Honeyman. "“You can’t have too much dog in a book.”

People experiencing homelessness, victims of domestic violence and economically vulnerable people are at higher risk of social exclusion. For them, pets are an important source of emotional support.

Sleep is one of the most important components of health for dogs and humans. Sleep allows the body and brain to recover, process
information, and be ready for the next day. Most adult dogs sleep for an average of 12 and 14 hours daily. Enjoy this column all about the importance of sleep for your dog.

This is a Mutual Rescue story about Rudy and Topa and has links to organisations working with animals in Venezuela following their June 2026 earthquakes.

This study of rural communities found similarities in the human-animal bond.