News

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have released a study into the health of the dogs that worked in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Expecting to see health impacts from breathing in hazardous dusts and other debris, the researchers found that there was no difference in longevity when compared to a control group of other search and rescue dogs.

In my latest blog post, I review the documentary film The Dog Doc. This film profiles the life's work of Dr Marty Goldstein, a proud proponent of integrative veterinary care and maverick for his time. Stay tuned for my October newsletter, which will enable my readers and clients to access the Doc Play platform for an extended free trial period.

Today was the 2nd annual 4 Paws Marathon - a scaled down event thanks to Covid-19. We're grateful we could have an event at all thanks to the chaos created by the virus. As a sponsor of this event, I work alongside my co-sponsor Bodyworks Massage Therapy to provide the massage services at the finish line. Enjoy this post showing our interpretation of couples massage.

An international research team has documented the molecular basis of the Australian labradoodle. Their main conclusion is that animals in the Australian labradoodle breed registry are mostly poodle, and not a 50-50 split as might have been expected.

A Los Angeles company has released limited edition poop bags to help voters show their true colours in the US Presidential election. It is reported that the Donald Trump bags are outselling those of Joe Biden.

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.