Sometimes Not Man’s Best Friend: Dog Bites (2021)
An expert who has studied dog bites discusses the reality of breed temperament, especially when children are around, how to prevent bites, and whether breeds with dangerous reputations deserve them.
Pets and Animals Sub-categories:
- Cats (4)
- Dogs (18)
- Invasive Species (4)
- Pets and People (8)
- Veterinarians (8)
Tracing Covid in Animals & Water
Scientists are testing hundreds of different kinds of animals as well as waste and storm water for Covid-19, looking for reservoirs for possible mutation. They’ve learned even pets can possibly harbor the virus but probably aren’t a threat. An expert discusses how the knowledge will combat Covid variants.
Medical Notes: Week of March 14, 2021
Scientists have developed a urine test that’s extremely accurate at finding prostate cancer. Then, Spanking a child may be as bad for their mental health as being abused or neglected. And finally, we’ve heard about dogs that can sniff out cancer. Now we know they can sniff out Covid-19, too.
Medical Notes: Week of February 21, 2021
A study finds that schizophrenia is the second biggest risk factor for dying of Covid, second only to age. Then, scientists have discovered that a lack of a specific fatty acid in body tissues may trigger multiple sclerosis. And finally, a study recommending a calming influence for everyone... getting a cat.
Memory Care Farm Animals: Helpful Menageries
Some nursing homes with a large number of patients with dementia have found that farm animals on-site and even in rooms can be helpful in raising spirits and reducing the need for medications. A therapist and program director at one such nursing home discusses how llamas, chickens, goats and mini horses have found a home, to the benefit of residents.
More Pets in the Pandemic
Animal shelters report a surge in pet adoptions, especially puppies, in the last six months, and veterinarians are having to adopt procedures such as telemedicine to deal with the increase while still staying safe. Experts explain how adopting and training a new pet has changed in the pandemic.
Tick Paralysis: When A Tick Bite Can Be Fatal (2020)
Summer is tick season, and tick bites are common. However, bites from a couple of types of ticks can produce paralysis and even death.
Medical Notes: Week of June 14, 2020
People who recover from a coronavirus infection often still have a long way to go to recover their mental health. Then, a study that shows sick leave is a good way to slow the spread of diseases like Covid-19. Plus, doing good for other people is contagious. And finally, if you’re feeling stressed and anxious about the pandemic, you can bet your dog or cat …
Medical Notes: Week of May 10, 2020
A number of new treatments for Covid-19 are showing promise and could be fast-tracked if clinical trials continue to show good results. Then, another trial of 53 severely ill patients reported in the New England Journal of Medicine found that 68 percent showed clinical improvement with Remdesivir. Then, viruses like Covid-19 that jump from animals to people …
Medical Notes: Week of April 19, 2020
If you’ve been taking the drug Ranitidine for reflux or ulcer prevention, the FDA says stop. Then, a new study shows that parents are yelling at their children more since most of us have been ordered to stay home. And finally, with Covid-19 testing in such short supply… why not let a dog do it?
Pet Food: What Shouldn’t Your Dog or Cat Eat?
A growing number of pet owners are tempted to put their dog or cat on vegan, gluten-free or raw diets. An expert pet nutritionist and veterinarian discusses what pets should and shouldn’t eat to be healthy.
Medical Notes: Week of November 10, 2019
The largest study of its kind is strengthening the link between football and the brain disorder CTE. Then, a new study in the journal Radiology shows that complications due to cortisone shots are much more common than previously thought. Finally, another study is proving that dog owners live longer.
