Dogs have a good understanding of certain words and they know what these words stand for, a study has revealed, based on recordings of their brain activity.

The study was conducted by Marianna Boros at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, Hungary, and her colleagues. The experiment was conducted on 18 dogs of different breeds, including Border collies, toy poodles and Labrador retrievers.

It was revealed that dogs can reach beyond basic commands such as ‘sit’ and ‘fetch’.

<h2>How was the experiment conducted?</h2>

The owners of the dogs selected five familiar objects for each of their pets. During the experiment, they would utter the name of one of these objects and then present either the named object or a different one to the dog.

Using electroencephalography (EEG), the researchers monitored the brainwaves of each dog. They aimed to observe any variances in brain activity when the dog's owner mentioned a specific object, such as a "ball", but displayed a different item, like a stick, as opposed to when both the spoken word and the presented object matched.

“The idea was that if dogs understand the meaning of the words, their brain responses will differ between the presentation of matching and mismatching objects,” said Boros.

<h2>Results of the study</h2>

The results showed that distinct EEG signals were monitored when the objects didn't match with the words. A more pronounced effect on dogs was observed for words that they were more familiar with.

“The most important realisation of this study is not only that non-humans are capable of understanding words referentially, but this capacity seems to be generally present in dogs as well,” added Boros. “This study demonstrates that dogs may understand more than they show.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwictYm0wYmFAxV2zTgGHQ75DhkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-call-to-protect-radio-silence-on-moons-far-side-amid-growing-scientific-interest-in-the-region-703006" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-call-to-protect-radio-silence-on-moons-far-side-amid-growing-scientific-interest-in-the-region-703006&amp;ved=2ahUKEwictYm0wYmFAxV2zTgGHQ75DhkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Astronomers call to protect radio silence on Moon`s far side amid growing scientific interest in the region</a>

These findings mirror similar patterns seen in humans, implying that dogs possess an understanding that certain words correlate with specific objects.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dogs have a good understanding of certain words and they know what these words stand for, a study has revealed, based on recordings of their brain activity. The study was conducted by Marianna Boros at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, Hungary, and her colleagues.

Dogs have a good understanding of certain words and they know what these words stand for, a study has revealed, based on recordings of their brain activity. The study was conducted by Marianna Boros at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, Hungary, and her colleagues. The experiment was conducted on 18 dogs of different breeds, including Border collies, toy poodles and Labrador retrievers. It was revealed that dogs can reach beyond basic commands such as ‘sit’ and ‘fetch’. How was the experiment conducted? The owners of the dogs selected five familiar objects for each of their pets. During the experiment, they would utter the name of one of these objects and then present either the named object or a different one to the dog. Using electroencephalography (EEG), the researchers monitored the brainwaves of each dog. They aimed to observe any variances in brain activity when the dog's owner mentioned a specific object, such as a "ball", but displayed a different item, like a stick, as opposed to when both the spoken word and the presented object matched. “The idea was that if dogs understand the meaning of the words, their brain responses will differ between the presentation of matching and mismatching objects,” said Boros. Results of the study The results showed that distinct EEG signals were monitored when the objects didn't match with the words. A more pronounced effect on dogs was observed for words that they were more familiar with. “The most important realisation of this study is not only that non-humans are capable of understanding words referentially, but this capacity seems to be generally present in dogs as well,” added Boros. “This study demonstrates that dogs may understand more than they show.” Also read: Astronomers call to protect radio silence on Moon`s far side amid growing scientific interest in the region These findings mirror similar patterns seen in humans, implying that dogs possess an understanding that certain words correlate with specific objects. (With inputs from agencies)

Dogs understand nouns and know what some words stand for, study reveals

The emergence of a deadly virus in the Colorado River of southern California has sparked significant concern among researchers and pet owners alike. According to a report by the New York Post, the virus in question is Heterobilharzia americana, colloquially known as a liver fluke. While previously documented in regions like Texas, its presence in California signifies a troubling westward expansion, posing a dire threat to both animal health and environmental stability.

Heterobilharzia americana is notorious for inducing a life-threatening condition in dogs known as schistosomiasis. This parasite is typically contracted when dogs come into contact with freshwater habitats inhabited by infected snails, a common occurrence during activities such as swimming or wading.

<h2>Research efforts and alarming findings</h2>

Responding to reports of infected dogs in the area, a team of researchers from UC Riverside embarked on a comprehensive investigation. Between March and August 2023, they meticulously examined 2,000 snails along the banks of the Colorado River, uncovering unsettling truths: the parasite's prevalence in the region far exceeded previous estimations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/your-dog-keeps-count-of-the-treats-you-give-study-says-661756">Also read |&nbsp;Your dog keeps count of the treats you give, study says</a>

The revelation of this deadly virus carries profound implications across various sectors, encompassing public health, veterinary medicine, and biodiversity conservation. Recognising the virus's broader distribution is paramount for devising effective strategies to mitigate its spread and safeguard both human and animal populations.

The identification of the virus in the Colorado River region marks a significant milestone, representing its westernmost occurrence within the United States.&nbsp;

Understanding the symptoms of Heterobilharzia americana infection is crucial for prompt intervention. Affected dogs may display symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, gastrointestinal distress, coughing, and alterations in urination patterns.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/your-dog-may-live-longer-if-they-have-these-physical-traits-uk-study-686469">Also read |&nbsp;Your Dog may live longer if they have these physical traits: UK Study</a>

Certain canine demographics, including young, large breed, hunting, or herding dogs, are particularly susceptible, necessitating heightened vigilance and proactive preventative measures.

(With inputs from agencies)

The emergence of a deadly virus in the Colorado River of southern California has sparked significant concern among researchers and pet owners alike. According to a report by the New York Post, the virus in question is Heterobilharzia americana, colloquially known as a liver fluke.

The emergence of a deadly virus in the Colorado River of southern California has sparked significant concern among researchers and pet owners alike. According to a report by the New York Post, the virus in question is Heterobilharzia americana, colloquially known as a liver fluke. While previously documented in regions like Texas, its presence in California signifies a troubling westward expansion, posing a dire threat to both animal health and environmental stability. Heterobilharzia americana is notorious for inducing a life-threatening condition in dogs known as schistosomiasis. This parasite is typically contracted when dogs come into contact with freshwater habitats inhabited by infected snails, a common occurrence during activities such as swimming or wading. Research efforts and alarming findings Responding to reports of infected dogs in the area, a team of researchers from UC Riverside embarked on a comprehensive investigation. Between March and August 2023, they meticulously examined 2,000 snails along the banks of the Colorado River, uncovering unsettling truths: the parasite's prevalence in the region far exceeded previous estimations. Also read | Your dog keeps count of the treats you give, study says The revelation of this deadly virus carries profound implications across various sectors, encompassing public health, veterinary medicine, and biodiversity conservation. Recognising the virus's broader distribution is paramount for devising effective strategies to mitigate its spread and safeguard both human and animal populations. The identification of the virus in the Colorado River region marks a significant milestone, representing its westernmost occurrence within the United States. Understanding the symptoms of Heterobilharzia americana infection is crucial for prompt intervention. Affected dogs may display symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, gastrointestinal distress, coughing, and alterations in urination patterns. Also read | Your Dog may live longer if they have these physical traits: UK Study Certain canine demographics, including young, large breed, hunting, or herding dogs, are particularly susceptible, necessitating heightened vigilance and proactive preventative measures. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Liver fluke’ parasite spreading quickly, infection puts dogs at risk across US

Face-drenching licks by dogs feel delightful to dog owners. While some push their pooches away, others positively indulge in their pet's affection. It's a heartwarming scene but not the healthiest thing for the dog owner.

Face-drenching licks by dogs feel delightful to dog owners. While some push their pooches away, others positively indulge in their pet's affection. It's a heartwarming scene but not the healthiest thing for the dog owner. In an article published in The Conversation, Jacqueline Boyd, a senior lecturer in Animal Science at Nottingham Trent University, describes how a dog's way of showing affection by licking can do more harm than good. Licking is a crucial action for dogs. When a dog licks its mouth repeatedly, it could be a slight sign of stress or fear. They also use lip-licking as a behavioural response to their owner's emotional state. They lick their lips more frequently when they see angry faces. Almost all canine owners report being licked on their face by their dog. However, for people who are immunocompromised, have open wounds, or have a dog that has a track record of eating faeces, it's best to avoid face licks. According to Boyd, a dog's mouth has several microorganisms that are low risk for humans. However, there are rare cases when certain infections can pass from dogs to humans by bites, licks or scratches. For instance, Capnocytophaga canimorsus, a bacteria found in the mouths of up to 75 per cent of otherwise healthy dogs and cats, can cause life-threatening sepsis. Other microbes like Pasteurella multocida can also spread by contact with dog saliva, resulting in meningitis. Antibiotic resistance has become a concerning global health challenge. Canine saliva can also be a potential source of bacteria carrying antibiotic-resistant genes. ALSO READ | Scientists develop recyclable ‘water batteries’ that never explode A German study of 2,800 hospital patients and their companion animals in 2023 proved "that the sharing of multidrug-resistant organisms between companion animals and their owners is possible." However, the study identified only a handful of cases. Thus, the researchers concluded that "cat or dog ownership isn't a significant risk factor for multidrug-resistant organism colonisation in hospital patients." In the past, animal saliva has been used for wound healing, with some dogs specially trained to lick open wounds. However, there's no strong evidence which shows that allowing animals, especially dogs, to lick wounds will help them heal. Having a dog can have healing effects on your mental health. However, allowing animals to lick open wounds can put the owner at an increased risk of infection. (With inputs from agencies)

Pet owners beware! Allowing your dog to lick your face can be unhealthy and even fatal

We are living in the age of robots. Robots may not be around to just serve us ... and make our lives better. But with advancements in AI powered robotic dogs ... the questions of human life and death could soon depend on the split second decisions made by AI. In the latest ... Chinese scientists have developed robotic dogs ... that can shoot like a pro. Up until now, the legion of robotic dogs being produced by China were used as novelty electronic pets or for doing mundane tasks. But these robotic dogs ... now being developed in China ... can change the future of warfare. These robotic dogs have been tested to fire a machine gun with the accuracy of a skilled shooter. And guess what ... these dogs have already proven themselves to be better shooters ... than the best human soldiers on the battlefield. Mohammed Saleh brings you the details.

Chinese robotic dogs shoot like a pro

Robotic dogs can fire a machine gun with the accuracy of a skilled shooter. China's robotic dogs could revolutionize the future of warfare. Molly Gambhir telling you more.

Gravitas | Is China creating robotic dogs?

Oxana Malaya, a woman from Ukraine claims to have been raised by stray dogs after her parents left her out in the cold at the age of three. Over the years she adopted traits of her newfound fur family which included barking, growling, and walking on all fours.&nbsp;

<h2>How did Malaya end up with stray dogs?</h2>

Growing up we were fascinated with stories like Tarzan and Mowgli, about children who were separated from their human habitat to live with wild animals, and while these stories typically have a happy ending, it is far from the reality of such cases seen over the years, like Oxana Malaya’s story.&nbsp;

In an interview with 60 Minutes Australia, Malaya recalled how at the age of three she was locked outside in the cold by her alcoholic parents who “were too drunk to take care of her”. She eventually found her way to their pup Naida’s kennel where she lived till the age of nine.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bats-viruses-and-immunity-research-reveals-how-bats-could-help-prevent-future-pandemics-692449">Bats, viruses, and immunity: Research reveals how bats could help prevent future pandemics</a>

“Mom had too many kids…we didn’t have enough beds,” Malaya, who turned 40 last November, told “60 Minutes Australia” speaking about her abusive childhood in the Ukrainian village of Nova Blahovishchenka.&nbsp;

She was quickly welcomed as a part of the “pack” and eventually abandoned her ability to speak for barks and growls in the six years that she lived with her dog and other neighbourhood strays, reported the New York Post.

“I would talk to them, they would bark and I would repeat it,” said Malaya, adding that this was their “way of communication.”

<h2>Long journey</h2>

At the age of nine, Malaya was taken away from her pack after Ukrainian authorities were alerted about the child’s canine-like condition. However, attempts to take the nine-year-old were met with fierce resistance by the dogs, but they eventually managed to succeed.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bats-viruses-and-immunity-research-reveals-how-bats-could-help-prevent-future-pandemics-692449">US: United Airlines flight diverted after passengers spot damaged wing at 31000 feet. Watch!</a>

By then, Malaya also licked herself clean, ate raw meat, rummaged through garbage bins for food, and walked on her hands and knees. Her condition was described as “catastrophic” for her development.&nbsp;

“I don’t think she’s ever going to be able to read or do anything else that is going to be useful,” child psychologist Lyn Fry said about Malaya, as quoted by the New York Post. “If you haven’t got language by about 5, you’re probably not going to get language at all.”

In 2006, Malaya reunited with her family but it was not enough to heal her years of trauma. “When I feel lonely, I find myself doing anything I crawl on all fours. This is how lonely I feel,” she told 60 Minutes Australia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Oxana Malaya, a woman from Ukraine claims to have been raised by stray dogs after her parents left her out in the cold at the age of three. Over the years she adopted traits of her newfound fur family which included barking, growling, and walking on all fours.

Oxana Malaya, a woman from Ukraine claims to have been raised by stray dogs after her parents left her out in the cold at the age of three. Over the years she adopted traits of her newfound fur family which included barking, growling, and walking on all fours. How did Malaya end up with stray dogs? Growing up we were fascinated with stories like Tarzan and Mowgli, about children who were separated from their human habitat to live with wild animals, and while these stories typically have a happy ending, it is far from the reality of such cases seen over the years, like Oxana Malaya’s story. In an interview with 60 Minutes Australia, Malaya recalled how at the age of three she was locked outside in the cold by her alcoholic parents who “were too drunk to take care of her”. She eventually found her way to their pup Naida’s kennel where she lived till the age of nine. Also Read | Bats, viruses, and immunity: Research reveals how bats could help prevent future pandemics “Mom had too many kids…we didn’t have enough beds,” Malaya, who turned 40 last November, told “60 Minutes Australia” speaking about her abusive childhood in the Ukrainian village of Nova Blahovishchenka. She was quickly welcomed as a part of the “pack” and eventually abandoned her ability to speak for barks and growls in the six years that she lived with her dog and other neighbourhood strays, reported the New York Post. “I would talk to them, they would bark and I would repeat it,” said Malaya, adding that this was their “way of communication.” Long journey At the age of nine, Malaya was taken away from her pack after Ukrainian authorities were alerted about the child’s canine-like condition. However, attempts to take the nine-year-old were met with fierce resistance by the dogs, but they eventually managed to succeed. Also Read | US: United Airlines flight diverted after passengers spot damaged wing at 31000 feet. Watch! By then, Malaya also licked herself clean, ate raw meat, rummaged through garbage bins for food, and walked on her hands and knees. Her condition was described as “catastrophic” for her development. “I don’t think she’s ever going to be able to read or do anything else that is going to be useful,” child psychologist Lyn Fry said about Malaya, as quoted by the New York Post. “If you haven’t got language by about 5, you’re probably not going to get language at all.” In 2006, Malaya reunited with her family but it was not enough to heal her years of trauma. “When I feel lonely, I find myself doing anything I crawl on all fours. This is how lonely I feel,” she told 60 Minutes Australia. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian woman says she was ‘raised’ by dogs, learned to bark, grow, walked on all fours

Small "toy" breeds, as per new research, often have doubled-up teeth similar to sharks' mouths. New research published in the journal 'Research in Veterinary Science' shows that seven per cent of pet dogs, mostly smaller breeds, exhibit the condition known as persistent deciduous teeth.&nbsp;

<h2>Shark teeth</h2>

This occurs when a dog's baby teeth remain in the jaw, close to the adult teeth, instead of falling out, creating rows of teeth resembling those of sharks.

To explore this weird phenomenon, Corrin Wallis and her team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in Leicestershire, UK, analysed records from 2.8 million pure-bred dogs in the US from veterinary visits between January 2010 and December 2014.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wake-up-call-first-of-its-kind-un-report-finds-22-migratory-animals-face-extinction-thanks-to-humans-689572">‘Wake up call’: First-of-its-kind UN report finds 22% migratory animals face extinction, thanks to humans</a>

Upon categorising 60 breeds into six size groups, ranging from extra-small (less than 6.5 kg) to extra-large (over 40 kg), they found that around 15 per cent of extra-small dogs had shark teeth, compared to less than one per cent of dogs in categories heavier than 15 kg.&nbsp;

Among toy breeds, Yorkshire terriers, toy poodles, Malteses, and chihuahuas showed the highest prevalence of these "shark teeth" — Yorkshire terriers had the highest at 25 per cent.&nbsp;

In comparison, Greyhounds had the lowest incidence across all breeds at just 0.1 per cent.

<h2>Why do dogs have 'shark teeth'?</h2>

According to the team of researchers, the higher prevalence of shark teeth in smaller breeds could be due to their smaller mouths.

Dan O'Neill at the Royal Veterinary College in London suggested that very short-nosed dogs were nearly three times as likely to have shark teeth as those with average nose lengths.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whos-the-dad-stingray-pregnant-without-any-male-companion-aquarium-690301">Who’s the dad? Stingray pregnant without any male companion of her species in aquarium</a>

Deciduous teeth "is a disorder that's heavily related to breed, and that's key, because that means we can change that if we wish," he said.

Wallis and her team also found a connection between obesity and shark teeth, which were 11 per cent more common in overweight dogs. However, as per O'Neill, the reason for this link is unclear.

Further research in dogs is necessary to understand this new finding. Wallis and her colleagues, as per New Scientist, stress that it is important to get your pet&nbsp;regular veterinary care to check for persistent deciduous teeth. They recommend the removal of "shark teeth" to prevent complications.

(With inputs from agencies)

Small "toy" breeds, as per new research, often have doubled-up teeth similar to sharks' mouths. New research published in the journal 'Research in Veterinary Science' shows that seven per cent of pet dogs, mostly smaller breeds, exhibit the condition known as persistent deciduous teeth.

Small "toy" breeds, as per new research, often have doubled-up teeth similar to sharks' mouths. New research published in the journal 'Research in Veterinary Science' shows that seven per cent of pet dogs, mostly smaller breeds, exhibit the condition known as persistent deciduous teeth. Shark teeth This occurs when a dog's baby teeth remain in the jaw, close to the adult teeth, instead of falling out, creating rows of teeth resembling those of sharks. To explore this weird phenomenon, Corrin Wallis and her team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in Leicestershire, UK, analysed records from 2.8 million pure-bred dogs in the US from veterinary visits between January 2010 and December 2014. Also read | ‘Wake up call’: First-of-its-kind UN report finds 22% migratory animals face extinction, thanks to humans Upon categorising 60 breeds into six size groups, ranging from extra-small (less than 6.5 kg) to extra-large (over 40 kg), they found that around 15 per cent of extra-small dogs had shark teeth, compared to less than one per cent of dogs in categories heavier than 15 kg. Among toy breeds, Yorkshire terriers, toy poodles, Malteses, and chihuahuas showed the highest prevalence of these "shark teeth" — Yorkshire terriers had the highest at 25 per cent. In comparison, Greyhounds had the lowest incidence across all breeds at just 0.1 per cent. Why do dogs have 'shark teeth'? According to the team of researchers, the higher prevalence of shark teeth in smaller breeds could be due to their smaller mouths. Dan O'Neill at the Royal Veterinary College in London suggested that very short-nosed dogs were nearly three times as likely to have shark teeth as those with average nose lengths. Also read | Who’s the dad? Stingray pregnant without any male companion of her species in aquarium Deciduous teeth "is a disorder that's heavily related to breed, and that's key, because that means we can change that if we wish," he said. Wallis and her team also found a connection between obesity and shark teeth, which were 11 per cent more common in overweight dogs. However, as per O'Neill, the reason for this link is unclear. Further research in dogs is necessary to understand this new finding. Wallis and her colleagues, as per New Scientist, stress that it is important to get your pet regular veterinary care to check for persistent deciduous teeth. They recommend the removal of "shark teeth" to prevent complications. (With inputs from agencies)

New research suggests your Chihuahua or other toy breed dog may have 'shark teeth'.  Here's what it means

Researchers have uncovered notable variations in average lifespans based on factors such as size, head shape, and gender, in a comprehensive study of nearly 600,000 British dogs representing over 150 breeds. It found that small, long-nosed breeds lived nearly two and a half years longer on average than large, short-nosed breeds.

The findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, highlighted potential risks and threw open the scope for further research to improve the canine well-being.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK Study: Small, long-nosed dogs live longer

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-study-small-long-nosed-dogs-live-longer-686373/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The study, led by Dogs Trust, a British dog welfare charity, disclosed that large breeds and those with flat faces exhibited shorter average lifespans compared to smaller counterparts and dogs with elongated snouts.&nbsp;

Female dogs, on average, lived slightly longer than their male counterparts.

While exceptions exist, the research may not be universally applicable outside Britain due to divergent breeding practices and gene pools.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-dogflation-forces-thousands-of-pet-owners-to-abandon-their-dogs-681559">Britain's 'Dogflation' forces thousands of pet owners to abandon their dogs</a>

Experts call for the need for additional research to unravel the reasons behind these breed-specific differences.&nbsp;

Genetic factors to health issues in certain breeds are also known yet other factors like behavior, lifestyle, diet, and environment may contribute to varying lifespans.

The UK study utilised a database of 584,734 British dogs from various sources, including breed registries, pet insurance companies, and veterinary records.

The median lifespan across all dogs was 12.5 years, with significant variations among breeds. Lancashire heelers, a petite herding breed, boasted an average lifespan of 15.4 years, while the much larger Caucasian shepherd dogs averaged just 5.4 years.

The study categorised breeds into small, medium, or large sizes and flat-faced, medium-proportioned, or long-faced head shapes.&nbsp;

Small breeds, on average, outlived large breeds, consistent with prior research in dogs and other mammals. Flat-faced breeds, known as brachycephalic, had shorter lifespans than medium- and long-faced breeds.

<h2>Purebred dogs live longer than crossbred ones: UK Study</h2>

The study contradicted some prior research by revealing that, as a group, purebred dogs lived longer on average than crossbred dogs. The complexity of this issue challenges the conventional wisdom that mixed-breed dogs are always healthier, prompting experts to explore the nuanced factors contributing to canine longevity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have uncovered notable variations in average lifespans based on factors such as size, head shape, and gender, in a comprehensive study of nearly 600,000 British dogs representing over 150 breeds.

Researchers have uncovered notable variations in average lifespans based on factors such as size, head shape, and gender, in a comprehensive study of nearly 600,000 British dogs representing over 150 breeds. It found that small, long-nosed breeds lived nearly two and a half years longer on average than large, short-nosed breeds. The findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, highlighted potential risks and threw open the scope for further research to improve the canine well-being. Also watch | UK Study: Small, long-nosed dogs live longer × The study, led by Dogs Trust, a British dog welfare charity, disclosed that large breeds and those with flat faces exhibited shorter average lifespans compared to smaller counterparts and dogs with elongated snouts. Female dogs, on average, lived slightly longer than their male counterparts. While exceptions exist, the research may not be universally applicable outside Britain due to divergent breeding practices and gene pools. Also read | Britain's 'Dogflation' forces thousands of pet owners to abandon their dogs Experts call for the need for additional research to unravel the reasons behind these breed-specific differences. Genetic factors to health issues in certain breeds are also known yet other factors like behavior, lifestyle, diet, and environment may contribute to varying lifespans. The UK study utilised a database of 584,734 British dogs from various sources, including breed registries, pet insurance companies, and veterinary records. The median lifespan across all dogs was 12.5 years, with significant variations among breeds. Lancashire heelers, a petite herding breed, boasted an average lifespan of 15.4 years, while the much larger Caucasian shepherd dogs averaged just 5.4 years. The study categorised breeds into small, medium, or large sizes and flat-faced, medium-proportioned, or long-faced head shapes. Small breeds, on average, outlived large breeds, consistent with prior research in dogs and other mammals. Flat-faced breeds, known as brachycephalic, had shorter lifespans than medium- and long-faced breeds. Purebred dogs live longer than crossbred ones: UK Study The study contradicted some prior research by revealing that, as a group, purebred dogs lived longer on average than crossbred dogs. The complexity of this issue challenges the conventional wisdom that mixed-breed dogs are always healthier, prompting experts to explore the nuanced factors contributing to canine longevity. (With inputs from agencies)

Your Dog may live longer if they have these physical traits: UK Study

After years of discussion and different studies, scientists have finally uncovered the mystery of why little dogs live longer than their bigger counterparts. The study conducted by the University of Washington has stated that although both little and big pups suffered from a similar number of health conditions, the larger breeds tend to experience more severe ailments.&nbsp;

The study published in PLOS ONE analysed data from over 27,500 puppers, including 238 breeds, spread across the United States. Under the Dog Aging Project (DAP), dog owners self-selected and enrolled one dog from their household.&nbsp;

"Enrollment consisted of completing a web-based Health and Life Experience Survey (HLES) that elicited information from the dog owner on a wide array of topics," the study stated.&nbsp;

Notably, in the health status section, dog owners were asked if their dogs had ever been diagnosed with various medical conditions regardless of their current status.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hachiko-worlds-most-loyal-dog-turns-100-hachikos-loyal-echoes-acrioss-generations-wion-656798">Watch | Hachiko: World's most loyal dog turns 100 | Hachiko's loyal echoes across generations</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hachiko-worlds-most-loyal-dog-turns-100-hachikos-loyal-echoes-acrioss-generations-wion-656798/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>What did the study find?&nbsp;</h2>

The dogs ranged in age from puppies to very senior dogs, with a median age of seven&nbsp;years. After going through the comprehensive set of data, researchers found that&nbsp;larger dogs&nbsp;were prone to cancer, bone-related diseases, gastrointestinal problems, neurological and endocrine conditions, ears, nose, and throat issues, and infectious diseases.

"Growth patterns in larger dog breeds involve rapid weight gain throughout the period of skeletal development and maturity, which has been linked to increased risk of developmental musculoskeletal and orthopedic diseases including hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and osteochondrosis," the study noted.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-dogflation-forces-thousands-of-pet-owners-to-abandon-their-dogs-681559">Also read |&nbsp;Britain's 'Dogflation' forces thousands of pet owners to abandon their dogs</a>

Meanwhile, the small dogs largely suffered from cardiac, respiratory and ocular issues. Some also had to contend with liver and pancreatic diseases.&nbsp;

Despite the findings, the scientists said more research was needed to clarify the links between dog age, size and disease prevalence.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"This study does not confirm any causal relationship between dog size, age, and disease.&nbsp;'However, the findings could help lead to deeper understanding of the types of conditions that may underlie the lower lifespan of larger dogs," said lead author Yunbi Nam.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the study could help&nbsp;veterinarians better treat the large dogs by taking in consideration the common medical conditions they suffer from.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After years of discussion and different studies, scientists have finally uncovered the mystery of why little dogs live longer than their bigger counterparts. The study conducted by the University of Washington has stated that although both little and big pups suffered from a similar number of health conditions, the larger breeds tend to experience more severe ailments.

After years of discussion and different studies, scientists have finally uncovered the mystery of why little dogs live longer than their bigger counterparts. The study conducted by the University of Washington has stated that although both little and big pups suffered from a similar number of health conditions, the larger breeds tend to experience more severe ailments. The study published in PLOS ONE analysed data from over 27,500 puppers, including 238 breeds, spread across the United States. Under the Dog Aging Project (DAP), dog owners self-selected and enrolled one dog from their household. "Enrollment consisted of completing a web-based Health and Life Experience Survey (HLES) that elicited information from the dog owner on a wide array of topics," the study stated. Notably, in the health status section, dog owners were asked if their dogs had ever been diagnosed with various medical conditions regardless of their current status. Watch | Hachiko: World's most loyal dog turns 100 | Hachiko's loyal echoes across generations × What did the study find? The dogs ranged in age from puppies to very senior dogs, with a median age of seven years. After going through the comprehensive set of data, researchers found that larger dogs were prone to cancer, bone-related diseases, gastrointestinal problems, neurological and endocrine conditions, ears, nose, and throat issues, and infectious diseases. "Growth patterns in larger dog breeds involve rapid weight gain throughout the period of skeletal development and maturity, which has been linked to increased risk of developmental musculoskeletal and orthopedic diseases including hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and osteochondrosis," the study noted. Also read | Britain's 'Dogflation' forces thousands of pet owners to abandon their dogs Meanwhile, the small dogs largely suffered from cardiac, respiratory and ocular issues. Some also had to contend with liver and pancreatic diseases. Despite the findings, the scientists said more research was needed to clarify the links between dog age, size and disease prevalence. "This study does not confirm any causal relationship between dog size, age, and disease. 'However, the findings could help lead to deeper understanding of the types of conditions that may underlie the lower lifespan of larger dogs," said lead author Yunbi Nam. Nonetheless, the study could help veterinarians better treat the large dogs by taking in consideration the common medical conditions they suffer from. (With inputs from agencies)

Why do little pups outlive big dogs? Scientists finally have the answer

A northern Italian province&nbsp;has ordered&nbsp;DNA test for all dogs in a bid to find their owners and impose a fine on them if they fail to clean up their pet’s poop amid a crackdown on the scourge of dog litter on&nbsp;the streets.

<h2>DNA test for dogs</h2>

Once the DNA of the dog is collected, the test results will be inserted into a database, which can be used to search for the culprits and their owners.&nbsp;

The database, which is yet to be created, will be accessed by street cleaners and health officials in the&nbsp;autonomous province Bolzano-South Tyrol&nbsp;to check whose abandoned poop is littering the streets of the Italian province after genetically testing it. Subsequently,&nbsp;the owners will be&nbsp;traced&nbsp;and face fines of 50 to 500 euros ($54 to $540).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/primitive-but-effective-washington-turns-to-dogs-and-cats-to-help-deal-with-rising-rat-problem-605906">'Primitive but effective': Washington turns to dogs and cats to help deal with rising rat problem</a>

An estimated 40,000 dogs in the province were required to undergo a DNA test at a veterinary clinic by the end of December 2023 before the initiative was introduced in January.&nbsp;

Any owner who refuses the DNA profiling for their dog, which will be made compulsory by the end of March will be fined between 292 to 1,048 euros ($318 to $1179).&nbsp;

The provincial government covering Bolzano city and surrounding towns is creating the database, said veterinary department director Paolo Zambotto.&nbsp;

Around 10,000 have already been registered. “Bolzano receives a few hundred complaints a year from citizens about improper management of public land. More than half are for dogs,” Zambotto told Reuters.

He added, “Law enforcement could only catch three or four of them because they have to go there and set up some kind of stakeout.”

<h2>Not just poop</h2>

Arnold Schuler, a provincial councillor told Rai news that the database made using the DNA tests will also be used to identify dogs killed in road accidents or that attacked other animals or people.

“In this way, we are making it easier for everyone to have their pet registered," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/an-id-card-for-dogs-stray-dogs-outside-mumbai-airport-get-aadhar-with-qr-codes-says-report-616929">ID card for dogs: Strays outside India's Mumbai airport get 'Aadhaar' with QR codes</a>

Dog owners will be expected to get&nbsp;blood tests done for their dogs, at municipal dog shelters or vet clinics which cost around 60 to over 100 euros ($71 and $109).&nbsp;

The measure has also received some criticism and has mostly been questioned over how this&nbsp;complex and costly initiative will be implemented and&nbsp;managed. Many&nbsp;have questioned what will happen&nbsp;if the culprits are strays or are owned by tourists.&nbsp;

While others said it was an additional expense for the municipality and the police, who could be using these resources elsewhere.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A northern Italian province has ordered DNA test for all dogs in a bid to find their owners and impose a fine on them if they fail to clean up their pet’s poop amid a crackdown on the scourge of dog litter on the streets.

A northern Italian province has ordered DNA test for all dogs in a bid to find their owners and impose a fine on them if they fail to clean up their pet’s poop amid a crackdown on the scourge of dog litter on the streets. DNA test for dogs Once the DNA of the dog is collected, the test results will be inserted into a database, which can be used to search for the culprits and their owners. The database, which is yet to be created, will be accessed by street cleaners and health officials in the autonomous province Bolzano-South Tyrol to check whose abandoned poop is littering the streets of the Italian province after genetically testing it. Subsequently, the owners will be traced and face fines of 50 to 500 euros ($54 to $540). ALSO READ | 'Primitive but effective': Washington turns to dogs and cats to help deal with rising rat problem An estimated 40,000 dogs in the province were required to undergo a DNA test at a veterinary clinic by the end of December 2023 before the initiative was introduced in January. Any owner who refuses the DNA profiling for their dog, which will be made compulsory by the end of March will be fined between 292 to 1,048 euros ($318 to $1179). The provincial government covering Bolzano city and surrounding towns is creating the database, said veterinary department director Paolo Zambotto. Around 10,000 have already been registered. “Bolzano receives a few hundred complaints a year from citizens about improper management of public land. More than half are for dogs,” Zambotto told Reuters. He added, “Law enforcement could only catch three or four of them because they have to go there and set up some kind of stakeout.” Not just poop Arnold Schuler, a provincial councillor told Rai news that the database made using the DNA tests will also be used to identify dogs killed in road accidents or that attacked other animals or people. “In this way, we are making it easier for everyone to have their pet registered," he said. ALSO READ | ID card for dogs: Strays outside India's Mumbai airport get 'Aadhaar' with QR codes Dog owners will be expected to get blood tests done for their dogs, at municipal dog shelters or vet clinics which cost around 60 to over 100 euros ($71 and $109). The measure has also received some criticism and has mostly been questioned over how this complex and costly initiative will be implemented and managed. Many have questioned what will happen if the culprits are strays or are owned by tourists. While others said it was an additional expense for the municipality and the police, who could be using these resources elsewhere. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Find and fine’: Italian province orders DNA tests for all dogs to trace owners not scooping the poop

A recent study suggests that dogs wag their tail not only to indicate happiness but also to communicate other complex emotions. A team of European researchers proposed two major theories on the evolution of tail wagging in dogs in a recent study published in the journal Biology Letters.

A recent study suggests that dogs wag their tail not only to indicate happiness but also to communicate other complex emotions. A team of European researchers proposed two major theories on the evolution of tail wagging in dogs in a recent study published in the journal Biology Letters. The study suggests that when dogs experience a positive emotion, they tend to wag their tail more towards the right. However, their wagging inclines towards the left more when they have a negative emotion. The authors stated that wagging and arousal-related hormones or neurotransmitters might be linked in the dogs' bodies. They also mentioned that there might be a connection between the stress hormone cortisol and tail wagging. Silvia Leonetti, the study's first author and research assistant in comparative bioacoustics at the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, told Newsweek, "Many animals have tails and use those tails for moving (an alligator swimming), balance ( a cat walking along a narrow fence), and removing pests (a horse swatting flies away from its body). But those examples contrast with domestic dogs, who use their tails primarily for communication rather than any other function." ALSO READ | Rhesus monkey cloned using new technique different from what was used for Dolly the sheep Dogs, compared to wolves, wag their tails more often and start from a very young age, suggesting that the behaviour evolved in the line after humans started domesticating them. Thus, dogs might have adapted wagging as a way to communicate with their human masters. "One study found that during food denial situations, dogs wagged their tails more when a human was present versus not, suggesting that tail wagging may also function as a requesting signal," the authors said. However, this evolution might not be deliberate. According to the study, wagging may have emerged as a by-product of another characteristic, like tameness or friendliness. The authors bred a cohort of silver foxes for over 40 generations for the research. They found that the foxes showed a dog-like tail-wagging behaviour after being selected for traits like tamability and docility. "Based on this, we hypothesise that the domestication process may have led to changes at the anatomical and behavioral level that altered tail wagging behavior in dogs," the authors said. Although these theories suggest how and why tail wagging evolved, there are many unanswered questions. "We are just scratching the surface," Andrea Ravignani, the study's senior author, said. It remains a mystery how dogs control their behaviour and how well they decipher the meaning of wagging among other dogs. "We echo the concerns of other researchers that these procedures may impair the communicative repertoire of an animal (although this should be empirically tested by comparing breeds) and reduce how well a dog can express its feelings and communicate," Ravignani said. (With inputs from agencies)

Dogs wag their tail to convey a lot more than just happiness, study finds

South Korea has passes the bill that bans the consumption of dog meat in the country. The bill will be outlaws slaughtering and selling dogs from 2027 - which is a centuries-old practice.

South Korea passes bill to ban dog meat, to be outlawed from 2027

We know that dogs have evolved particular facial muscles to appear more cute to humans, but have we unknowingly affected our canine friends' eyes? Apparently, yes.

New research suggests that ever since humans domesticated canines some 15,000 to 50,000 years ago, we have selected particular traits in dogs...eye colour included.

<h2>Impacting evolution: The human way</h2>

Writing in the journal Royal Society Open Science, researchers from Japan say that humans seem to have a penchant for puppy eyes, especially dark ones.

They found that among domesticated dogs, dark eyes are more common than their wild relatives. It was also observed that humans perceive dogs with a darker eye colour as more friendly and, thus, more desirable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/empathy-with-our-closest-living-cousins-humans-and-apes-share-remarkable-social-memory-traits-study-finds-671294">‘Empathy with our closest living cousins’: Humans and apes share remarkable social memory traits, study finds</a>

Akitsugu Konno, the first author of the research, as quoted by The Guardian, said: "I speculate that lighter irises have some evolutionary advantage for wolves, but domestication has lost this selective pressure and darker eyes have emerged in some primitive dogs."

They believe that darker eyes may have been favoured by humans — consciously or unconsciously, during the domestication of canines from wolves to dogs.

"We speculate that a darker iris makes it more difficult to distinguish the size of the pupil and thus gives the illusion of a large pupil, which is associated with our perception of being more infant-like," adds Konno, from Teikyo University of Science.

A comparison of the iris colour of 22 images of grey wolves from different locations, with 81 images of domestic dogs, revealed that the domesticated canines had darker, reddish eyes.

<h2>Light colour or dark, which is cuter?</h2>

To give weight to their theory, the researchers conducted an experiment, where they created 12 pairs of images. Each pair showed a domestic dog with light eyes, and the same dog with dark eyes.&nbsp;

A selection of these pictures was shown to two groups of 76 and 66 people. The humans were asked to rate the dogs for various personality traits. They were also asked to rate how much they would like to interact with a dog or keep it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/its-beginning-to-look-a-lot-like-cosmos-nasa-releases-breathtaking-image-of-a-cosmic-christmas-tree-671532">'It's beginning to look a lot like cosmos': NASA releases breathtaking image of a cosmic Christmas tree</a>

Results showed that dogs with darker eyes earned higher ratings. A higher number of people deemed them more easy-going, sociable and dependent, and less aggressive, intelligent and mature than their light-eyed counterparts.

"Overall, dogs with dark eyes may have evolved the trait largely as means to send non-threatening gaze signal to humans," said the researchers.

They found that eye colour was not directly related to the participant's desire to interact with or keep a dog. However, they speculate that the association of dark eyes with immaturity could be an influencing factor behind a human's desire to protect and care for a dog.

(With inputs from agencies)

We know that dogs have evolved particular facial muscles to appear more cute to humans, but have we unknowingly affected our canine friends' eyes? Apparently, yes.

We know that dogs have evolved particular facial muscles to appear more cute to humans, but have we unknowingly affected our canine friends' eyes? Apparently, yes. New research suggests that ever since humans domesticated canines some 15,000 to 50,000 years ago, we have selected particular traits in dogs...eye colour included. Impacting evolution: The human way Writing in the journal Royal Society Open Science, researchers from Japan say that humans seem to have a penchant for puppy eyes, especially dark ones. They found that among domesticated dogs, dark eyes are more common than their wild relatives. It was also observed that humans perceive dogs with a darker eye colour as more friendly and, thus, more desirable. Also read | ‘Empathy with our closest living cousins’: Humans and apes share remarkable social memory traits, study finds Akitsugu Konno, the first author of the research, as quoted by The Guardian, said: "I speculate that lighter irises have some evolutionary advantage for wolves, but domestication has lost this selective pressure and darker eyes have emerged in some primitive dogs." They believe that darker eyes may have been favoured by humans — consciously or unconsciously, during the domestication of canines from wolves to dogs. "We speculate that a darker iris makes it more difficult to distinguish the size of the pupil and thus gives the illusion of a large pupil, which is associated with our perception of being more infant-like," adds Konno, from Teikyo University of Science. A comparison of the iris colour of 22 images of grey wolves from different locations, with 81 images of domestic dogs, revealed that the domesticated canines had darker, reddish eyes. Light colour or dark, which is cuter? To give weight to their theory, the researchers conducted an experiment, where they created 12 pairs of images. Each pair showed a domestic dog with light eyes, and the same dog with dark eyes. A selection of these pictures was shown to two groups of 76 and 66 people. The humans were asked to rate the dogs for various personality traits. They were also asked to rate how much they would like to interact with a dog or keep it. Also read | 'It's beginning to look a lot like cosmos': NASA releases breathtaking image of a cosmic Christmas tree Results showed that dogs with darker eyes earned higher ratings. A higher number of people deemed them more easy-going, sociable and dependent, and less aggressive, intelligent and mature than their light-eyed counterparts. "Overall, dogs with dark eyes may have evolved the trait largely as means to send non-threatening gaze signal to humans," said the researchers. They found that eye colour was not directly related to the participant's desire to interact with or keep a dog. However, they speculate that the association of dark eyes with immaturity could be an influencing factor behind a human's desire to protect and care for a dog. (With inputs from agencies)

Humans can't resist puppy eyes, so much so that we have impacted their eye colour

Pet parents shift towards healthier diets, prefers home-cooked food for their pets.

Pet parents shift towards healthier diets, prefers home-cooked food for their pets

Just as humans have a wide array of options in food and grooming the pet industry in India has seen a similar evolution from diverse food choices to specialised grooming services.

Pet care industry's growth surge; grooming sector surge reflects pet hygiene priorities | WION

The veterinary biotech company, Loyal for Dogs, is making strides in developing a drug that could potentially prolong the lifespan of larger canine breeds. Known as LOY-001, the drug is aimed at dogs aged 7 and older, weighing at least 40 pounds (almost 19 kgs).

While LOY-001 is still in the pre-clinical stage, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged the initial data's sufficiency to indicate a "reasonable expectation of effectiveness."

Loyal's CEO, Celine Halioua, expressed pride in achieving what is believed to be the FDA's first formal acceptance for developing and approving a drug to extend canine lifespan, according to Science Alert.&nbsp;

LOY-001 functions by inhibiting insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a growth-related hormone linked to aging in various animals. Loyal is concurrently developing two other versions, LOY-002 and LOY-003, available in daily pill form. These drugs also target IGF-1 and are designed for different categories of older dogs.

Larger dog breeds, characterised by elevated IGF-1 levels, typically have shorter lifespans compared to smaller breeds. Loyal's observational study, involving over 450 large dogs, revealed that lower insulin levels correlated with reduced frailty and improved quality of life. This finding, combined with extensive technical information, led the FDA to acknowledge LOY-001's potential to extend dog life spans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dogs-likely-dream-about-their-owners-during-sleep-says-study-645353">Also read |&nbsp;Dogs likely dream about their human companions during sleep, says study</a>

<h2>FDA approval and future goals</h2>

With a validated proof of concept, Loyal aims to secure conditional approval for LOY-001 by 2026, enabling expedited market availability while ongoing clinical trials collect additional evidence. Celine Halioua and her team aspire to extend dog lifespans by at least a year through these trials.

As discussions on longevity drugs for animals unfold, experts emphasise the importance of ensuring an extended lifespan corresponds to a high quality of life for pets. Kate Creevy, Chief Veterinary Officer of the Dog Aging Project, expresses the need for a focus on improving health and well-being in any attempts to extend canine lifespans.

Also watch |&nbsp;Thoughts on pet-friendly workplaces!

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thoughts-on-pet-friendly-workplaces-548815/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Beyond the realm of veterinary medicine, pathways explored in longevity drugs for dogs may have implications for human health. While no longevity drug has received FDA approval to date, the pursuit of such developments raises ethical considerations and sparks debates about the responsibilities owed to pets.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-its-stray-dogs-a-never-ending-tussle-between-dog-lovers-and-dog-haters-595616">Also read |&nbsp;India and its stray dogs: A never ending tussle between dog-lovers and dog-haters</a>

Loyal is actively recruiting over a thousand senior dogs for clinical trials scheduled to commence in 2024/2025. Simultaneously, the Dog Aging Project is working on a potential life-extending drug for canines called rapamycin, which targets the mTOR molecule and shows anti-aging effects in various organisms.

(With inputs from agencies)

The veterinary biotech company, Loyal for Dogs, is making strides in developing a drug that could potentially prolong the lifespan of larger canine breeds. Known as LOY-001, the drug is aimed at dogs aged 7 and older, weighing at least 40 pounds (almost 19 kgs).

The veterinary biotech company, Loyal for Dogs, is making strides in developing a drug that could potentially prolong the lifespan of larger canine breeds. Known as LOY-001, the drug is aimed at dogs aged 7 and older, weighing at least 40 pounds (almost 19 kgs). While LOY-001 is still in the pre-clinical stage, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged the initial data's sufficiency to indicate a "reasonable expectation of effectiveness." Loyal's CEO, Celine Halioua, expressed pride in achieving what is believed to be the FDA's first formal acceptance for developing and approving a drug to extend canine lifespan, according to Science Alert. LOY-001 functions by inhibiting insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a growth-related hormone linked to aging in various animals. Loyal is concurrently developing two other versions, LOY-002 and LOY-003, available in daily pill form. These drugs also target IGF-1 and are designed for different categories of older dogs. Larger dog breeds, characterised by elevated IGF-1 levels, typically have shorter lifespans compared to smaller breeds. Loyal's observational study, involving over 450 large dogs, revealed that lower insulin levels correlated with reduced frailty and improved quality of life. This finding, combined with extensive technical information, led the FDA to acknowledge LOY-001's potential to extend dog life spans. Also read | Dogs likely dream about their human companions during sleep, says study FDA approval and future goals With a validated proof of concept, Loyal aims to secure conditional approval for LOY-001 by 2026, enabling expedited market availability while ongoing clinical trials collect additional evidence. Celine Halioua and her team aspire to extend dog lifespans by at least a year through these trials. As discussions on longevity drugs for animals unfold, experts emphasise the importance of ensuring an extended lifespan corresponds to a high quality of life for pets. Kate Creevy, Chief Veterinary Officer of the Dog Aging Project, expresses the need for a focus on improving health and well-being in any attempts to extend canine lifespans. Also watch | Thoughts on pet-friendly workplaces! Beyond the realm of veterinary medicine, pathways explored in longevity drugs for dogs may have implications for human health. While no longevity drug has received FDA approval to date, the pursuit of such developments raises ethical considerations and sparks debates about the responsibilities owed to pets. Also read | India and its stray dogs: A never ending tussle between dog-lovers and dog-haters Loyal is actively recruiting over a thousand senior dogs for clinical trials scheduled to commence in 2024/2025. Simultaneously, the Dog Aging Project is working on a potential life-extending drug for canines called rapamycin, which targets the mTOR molecule and shows anti-aging effects in various organisms. (With inputs from agencies)

This groundbreaking new drug is all set to increase life span of large dogs

Taking care of pets during winters is crucial to ensure their well-being in cold weather. By following these tips, you can provide a safe and comfortable winter environment for your pets. Take the necessary precautions to keep them happy and healthy during the colder months.

Winter pet care: Here's how you can keep your furry-friend healthy during colder months

A research featured in <a href="https://www.science.org/content/article/dog-brains-have-knack-numbers-much-ours">Science Magazine</a> suggests that dogs, beyond their familiar roles as companions, have&nbsp;the ability to process numbers in a manner similar to humans.

Emory University's study, published in Biology Letters, reveals that while dogs may not precisely count numbers as humans do, they exhibit an awareness of quantity.

The study explores the "approximate number system," showcasing dogs' capacity to discern variations in food portions or respond to additional treats, indicating an understanding of quantities.

Unlike previous studies using trained animals, this research by Gregory Berns and colleagues suggests that an untrained, shared brain function related to numbers has evolved across different animal species.

The study involved 11 diverse dog breeds undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging. Dogs, stationed in scanners, focused on changing arrays of grey dots, allowing researchers to monitor the parietotemporal cortex activity—the equivalent of the human parietal cortex responsible for processing numerical changes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dogs-likely-dream-about-their-owners-during-sleep-says-study-645353">Also read |&nbsp;Dogs likely dream about their human companions during sleep, says study</a>

<h2>What did the results say?</h2>

Eight out of the 11 dogs exhibited behaviour patterns akin to the human brain when tested, highlighting sensitivity to numerical changes.

Three dogs, however, did not pass the scanning test, a discrepancy attributed to individual breeds.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Baghdad zoo animals suffer as mercury hits 50 degrees

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-baghdad-zoo-animals-suffer-as-mercury-hits-50-degrees-626203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Psychologist Lauren Aulet, a contributor to the study, told&nbsp;the National Post about the potential breakthrough in understanding how dogs detect changes in quantity. The research may offer valuable insights into treating brain abnormalities and holds promise for future scientific inquiries.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A research featured in Science Magazine suggests that dogs, beyond their familiar roles as companions, have the ability to process numbers in a manner similar to humans.

A research featured in Science Magazine suggests that dogs, beyond their familiar roles as companions, have the ability to process numbers in a manner similar to humans. Emory University's study, published in Biology Letters, reveals that while dogs may not precisely count numbers as humans do, they exhibit an awareness of quantity. The study explores the "approximate number system," showcasing dogs' capacity to discern variations in food portions or respond to additional treats, indicating an understanding of quantities. Unlike previous studies using trained animals, this research by Gregory Berns and colleagues suggests that an untrained, shared brain function related to numbers has evolved across different animal species. The study involved 11 diverse dog breeds undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging. Dogs, stationed in scanners, focused on changing arrays of grey dots, allowing researchers to monitor the parietotemporal cortex activity—the equivalent of the human parietal cortex responsible for processing numerical changes. Also read | Dogs likely dream about their human companions during sleep, says study What did the results say? Eight out of the 11 dogs exhibited behaviour patterns akin to the human brain when tested, highlighting sensitivity to numerical changes. Three dogs, however, did not pass the scanning test, a discrepancy attributed to individual breeds. Also watch | Gravitas: Baghdad zoo animals suffer as mercury hits 50 degrees Psychologist Lauren Aulet, a contributor to the study, told the National Post about the potential breakthrough in understanding how dogs detect changes in quantity. The research may offer valuable insights into treating brain abnormalities and holds promise for future scientific inquiries. (With inputs from agencies)

Your dog keeps count of the treats you give, study says

'Barkitecture' is a growing business around the world but it is especially booming in the US What exactly is this trend? Is it even worth it?

Gravitas: 'Barkitecture' boom in the US

"Are you a dog person or a cat person?" is a question that's asked too too often. Though it is asked (more or less) in a humourous vein, many conclusions are secretly drawn from what you respond. A lot sometimes depends on whether you like a dog, a loyal, friendly companion, or a cat which has a general air of being the most important being on the planet. Any pet is fine as both animals bring joy to the household they live in.

But a new study has thrown up an interesting observation. It says that people are more likely to care for dogs than cats.

Now before you protest, read on about the research.

The team of international researchers made the study and compiled survey results of 2117 people across Austria, Denmark and the United Kingdom. 844 of these were dog owners, 872 owned a cat while 401 others owned both, dogs and cats.

The pet owners were asked questions on their pet health insurance and how willing they were to pay for their pet's life-saving treatments. Their emotional attachment with their pets was also measured through what's called Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-discover-first-proof-of-wild-female-chimpanzees-experiencing-menopause-652303">Researchers discover first proof of wild female chimpanzees experiencing menopause</a>

The result of the study suggests that people across these locations were likely to value their dogs more than their cats. It was found that this gap was largest among pet owners in Denmark. It was a bit less for those from Austria and was even less for people in the UK.

"While people care more about their dogs than their cats in all countries, the degree of difference varied dramatically between countries," says bioethicist Peter Sandoe from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.&nbsp;

"It doesn't therefore seem to be a universal phenomenon that people care much less about their cats than their dogs."

Watch | Drug dealer trains more than 12 dogs to escape cops

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drug-dealer-trains-more-than-12-dogs-to-escape-cops-640332/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Sandoe was quoted by ScienceAlert.

"The British are often portrayed as a nation of cat lovers, which is certainly confirmed by our study," he said. "The Danes have a long way to go but they may eventually get there."

And why are people likely to care for their dogs more? Researchers think that this happens because dogs give and take more affection and attention from owners while cats are relatively aloof and solitary.

The study, reported by ScienceAlert, has been published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

So has this research changed your answer about what 'sort' of person you are?

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

"Are you a dog person or a cat person?" is a question that's asked too too often. Though it is asked (more or less) in a humourous vein, many conclusions are secretly drawn from what you respond.

"Are you a dog person or a cat person?" is a question that's asked too too often. Though it is asked (more or less) in a humourous vein, many conclusions are secretly drawn from what you respond. A lot sometimes depends on whether you like a dog, a loyal, friendly companion, or a cat which has a general air of being the most important being on the planet. Any pet is fine as both animals bring joy to the household they live in. But a new study has thrown up an interesting observation. It says that people are more likely to care for dogs than cats. Now before you protest, read on about the research. The team of international researchers made the study and compiled survey results of 2117 people across Austria, Denmark and the United Kingdom. 844 of these were dog owners, 872 owned a cat while 401 others owned both, dogs and cats. The pet owners were asked questions on their pet health insurance and how willing they were to pay for their pet's life-saving treatments. Their emotional attachment with their pets was also measured through what's called Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale. Also Read | Researchers discover first proof of wild female chimpanzees experiencing menopause The result of the study suggests that people across these locations were likely to value their dogs more than their cats. It was found that this gap was largest among pet owners in Denmark. It was a bit less for those from Austria and was even less for people in the UK. "While people care more about their dogs than their cats in all countries, the degree of difference varied dramatically between countries," says bioethicist Peter Sandoe from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. "It doesn't therefore seem to be a universal phenomenon that people care much less about their cats than their dogs." Watch | Drug dealer trains more than 12 dogs to escape cops × Sandoe was quoted by ScienceAlert. "The British are often portrayed as a nation of cat lovers, which is certainly confirmed by our study," he said. "The Danes have a long way to go but they may eventually get there." And why are people likely to care for their dogs more? Researchers think that this happens because dogs give and take more affection and attention from owners while cats are relatively aloof and solitary. The study, reported by ScienceAlert, has been published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science. So has this research changed your answer about what 'sort' of person you are? WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

People are more likely to take care of dogs than cats: Study

Bobi, the world's oldest dog known ever, passed away this weekend in a veterinary clinic in Portugal, Guinness World Records announced on Monday (Oct 23). The purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo from Portugal lived until the age of 31. His longevity is an anomaly, as he belonged to a breed whose lifespan ranges between 12 to 14 years.

His demise gained attention from all over the world as he was declared the world's oldest dog by Guinness World Records this year in February, surpassing Bluey, an Australian dog that passed away in 1939 at the age of 29 years and 5 months.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-have-lost-control-no-amount-of-emission-cut-will-slow-down-melting-of-antarctica-ice-shelves-study-650530">Humans have 'lost control,' no amount of emission cut will slow down melting of Antarctica ice shelves: Study</a>

"Bobi lived to be 31 years 165 days old and spent his entire life with his loving owner Leonel Costa and his family in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros," the Guinness World Records said in a news release.

His age was confirmed by a registration with a veterinary medical service in Leiria, Portugal, and with a Portuguese government-owned pet database.&nbsp;

This year in May, Bobi's owner celebrated his 31st birthday and threw him a traditional party, which was attended by more than 100 guests.&nbsp;

He was born in a litter of four puppies. Initially, the owner, Leonel Costa's parents, decided not to keep them. As they already had too many pets, they put down the puppies, which they said was common practice at that time, by burying them in a hole.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-ancient-tectonic-plate-that-disappeared-20-million-years-ago-650437">Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago</a>

Costa discovered Bobi after he escaped, and secretly started taking care of him. When Costa's parents found him, he was too old to be put down so they decided to keep him.

Bobi was never restrained or chained. He drank plenty of water and only ate food meant for humans, his owner said. Costa attributed Bobi's "calm, peaceful" life as the reason for his advanced age.

(With inputs from agencies)

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Bobi, the world's oldest dog known ever, passed away this weekend in a veterinary clinic in Portugal, Guinness World Records announced on Monday (Oct 23). The purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo from Portugal lived until the age of 31.

Bobi, the world's oldest dog known ever, passed away this weekend in a veterinary clinic in Portugal, Guinness World Records announced on Monday (Oct 23). The purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo from Portugal lived until the age of 31. His longevity is an anomaly, as he belonged to a breed whose lifespan ranges between 12 to 14 years. His demise gained attention from all over the world as he was declared the world's oldest dog by Guinness World Records this year in February, surpassing Bluey, an Australian dog that passed away in 1939 at the age of 29 years and 5 months. Also read: Humans have 'lost control,' no amount of emission cut will slow down melting of Antarctica ice shelves: Study "Bobi lived to be 31 years 165 days old and spent his entire life with his loving owner Leonel Costa and his family in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros," the Guinness World Records said in a news release. His age was confirmed by a registration with a veterinary medical service in Leiria, Portugal, and with a Portuguese government-owned pet database. This year in May, Bobi's owner celebrated his 31st birthday and threw him a traditional party, which was attended by more than 100 guests. He was born in a litter of four puppies. Initially, the owner, Leonel Costa's parents, decided not to keep them. As they already had too many pets, they put down the puppies, which they said was common practice at that time, by burying them in a hole. Also read: Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago Costa discovered Bobi after he escaped, and secretly started taking care of him. When Costa's parents found him, he was too old to be put down so they decided to keep him. Bobi was never restrained or chained. He drank plenty of water and only ate food meant for humans, his owner said. Costa attributed Bobi's "calm, peaceful" life as the reason for his advanced age. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

World's oldest dog Bobi dies at 31 after living a 'calm and peaceful' life

Many of us have observed our canine companions during sleep, witnessing their noses twitch, legs move as though in a sprint, and even hearing their muted barks. After a day filled with frolics on the beach, romps through the countryside, or exploring the backyard, a lot could be&nbsp;running on their&nbsp;minds as they slumber. Now, a study by Harvard psychologists suggests that your dog's dreams may include you - their human.&nbsp;

<h2>The human-dog bond</h2>

Dr&nbsp;Deirdre Barrett, a clinical and evolutionary psychologist at Harvard Medical School, embarked on extensive research into dogs' sleep behaviour, leading her to the conclusion that they likely dream in a manner similar to humans.

Just like us, dogs dream about their daily experiences, which can often appear creative and somewhat surreal compared to reality, Barret told the&nbsp;People magazine.&nbsp;

It's theorised that dogs don't dream in a logical fashion; rather, they conjure visual experiences related to what captivates them and what they have emotional connections to.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fathers-who-have-daughters-tend-to-live-longer-says-study-644494">Fathers who have daughters tend to live longer, says study</a>

The alignment of sleep patterns between humans and dogs provides further evidence of their dream-filled slumbers. Both species traverse distinct sleep stages, including deep sleep and Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. It is during the REM sleep phases that dreams unfold for dogs, just as they do for their human counterparts.

In both human and canine brains, there exists a mechanism that typically inhibits physical movement during sleep to prevent individuals from acting out their dreams. However, there are occasions when this mechanism falters, leading to dream-related movements.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-its-stray-dogs-a-never-ending-tussle-between-dog-lovers-and-dog-haters-595616">India and its stray dogs: A never ending tussle between dog-lovers and dog-haters</a>

For dogs, if this brain mechanism weakens, you might have the delightful opportunity to witness their dream sequences. You may see them enthusiastically chasing that stick you threw for them the previous day or sprinting through fields. Most importantly, while they sleep, they dream of you—your visage and your scent—providing them with immense comfort.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Many of us have observed our canine companions during sleep, witnessing their noses twitch, legs move as though in a sprint, and even hearing their muted barks. After a day filled with frolics on the beach, romps through the countryside, or exploring the backyard, a lot could be running on their minds as they slumber.

Many of us have observed our canine companions during sleep, witnessing their noses twitch, legs move as though in a sprint, and even hearing their muted barks. After a day filled with frolics on the beach, romps through the countryside, or exploring the backyard, a lot could be running on their minds as they slumber. Now, a study by Harvard psychologists suggests that your dog's dreams may include you - their human. The human-dog bond Dr Deirdre Barrett, a clinical and evolutionary psychologist at Harvard Medical School, embarked on extensive research into dogs' sleep behaviour, leading her to the conclusion that they likely dream in a manner similar to humans. Just like us, dogs dream about their daily experiences, which can often appear creative and somewhat surreal compared to reality, Barret told the People magazine. It's theorised that dogs don't dream in a logical fashion; rather, they conjure visual experiences related to what captivates them and what they have emotional connections to. Also read | Fathers who have daughters tend to live longer, says study The alignment of sleep patterns between humans and dogs provides further evidence of their dream-filled slumbers. Both species traverse distinct sleep stages, including deep sleep and Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. It is during the REM sleep phases that dreams unfold for dogs, just as they do for their human counterparts. In both human and canine brains, there exists a mechanism that typically inhibits physical movement during sleep to prevent individuals from acting out their dreams. However, there are occasions when this mechanism falters, leading to dream-related movements. Also read | India and its stray dogs: A never ending tussle between dog-lovers and dog-haters For dogs, if this brain mechanism weakens, you might have the delightful opportunity to witness their dream sequences. You may see them enthusiastically chasing that stick you threw for them the previous day or sprinting through fields. Most importantly, while they sleep, they dream of you—your visage and your scent—providing them with immense comfort. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Dogs likely dream about their human companions during sleep, says study

&nbsp;A surprise search operation planned by the police's anti-narcotics squad at the house of a suspected drug dealer in southern India turned out into a nightmare after they were confronted by several violent dogs.

It has now emerged that the suspect in Kottayam, Kerala had trained the dogs to bite anyone who was wearing a police uniform.

The search operation on Sunday night (September 23) was hindered by the presence of the dogs which also helped the accused in escaping the police, while the officials focused on avoiding the attacks of the canines.

However, the officials were able to subdue the dogs and seize over 17 kilogrammes of ganja from the site, said the police.

"The accused had imparted training to the dogs to bite on seeing khaki [the common police uniform colour in India]," a senior police official said.

"He had been briefly trained in dog handling by a person retired from the BSF [Border Security Force], but was kicked out from there for asking questions like how to make dogs bite someone wearing khaki,"&nbsp;SP K Karthick IPS told reporters.

He said it was almost midnight when the anti-narcotics squad, &nbsp;along with the officers from the nearby Gandhinagar police station, reached the location,&nbsp;Kottayam.

&nbsp;ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/american-woman-arrested-after-police-found-55-abused-dogs-and-5-dead-puppies-in-her-freezer-639378">&nbsp;5 dead puppies found in Arizonian woman's freezer: 'Nothing wrong with storing food next to dead animals'</a>

"We did not expect there would be so many dogs here and that they would be violent. So, we faced difficulty initially in carrying out a proper search. Fortunately, none of the officers were injured," said the police official.&nbsp;

<h2>Police to hand back 13 dogs to their owners</h2>

The district police's top officer further said that the accused, who was living under the guise of a dog trainer, was a drug seller and the same was proved after they seized more than 17 kgs of ganja from the site.

"According to our preliminary investigation, he (the accused) was living here on rent and was known to everyone in the area as a dog trainer. Therefore, people used to leave their dogs with him, at the rate of ₹ 1,000 per day, when they went outside and he would look after the canines," Karthick said.

At present, around 13 dogs are present at the site and after their owners have been identified, the police will hand over the canines to them.

WATCH |&nbsp;UK: American XL Bully Dogs to be banned; PM Sunak says, 'urgent need to ban this crossbreed'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-american-xl-bully-dogs-to-be-banned-pm-sunak-says-urgent-need-to-ban-this-crossbreed-636346/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He further said that they have constituted a special investigation team to look into the case. &nbsp;"We first need to catch the accused and then find out if any others were also involved in the racket," the officer stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A surprise search operation planned by the police's anti-narcotics squad at the house of a suspected drug dealer in southern India turned out into a nightmare after they were confronted by several violent dogs.

A surprise search operation planned by the police's anti-narcotics squad at the house of a suspected drug dealer in southern India turned out into a nightmare after they were confronted by several violent dogs. It has now emerged that the suspect in Kottayam, Kerala had trained the dogs to bite anyone who was wearing a police uniform. The search operation on Sunday night (September 23) was hindered by the presence of the dogs which also helped the accused in escaping the police, while the officials focused on avoiding the attacks of the canines. However, the officials were able to subdue the dogs and seize over 17 kilogrammes of ganja from the site, said the police. "The accused had imparted training to the dogs to bite on seeing khaki [the common police uniform colour in India]," a senior police official said. "He had been briefly trained in dog handling by a person retired from the BSF [Border Security Force], but was kicked out from there for asking questions like how to make dogs bite someone wearing khaki," SP K Karthick IPS told reporters. He said it was almost midnight when the anti-narcotics squad, along with the officers from the nearby Gandhinagar police station, reached the location, Kottayam. ALSO READ | 5 dead puppies found in Arizonian woman's freezer: 'Nothing wrong with storing food next to dead animals' "We did not expect there would be so many dogs here and that they would be violent. So, we faced difficulty initially in carrying out a proper search. Fortunately, none of the officers were injured," said the police official. Police to hand back 13 dogs to their owners The district police's top officer further said that the accused, who was living under the guise of a dog trainer, was a drug seller and the same was proved after they seized more than 17 kgs of ganja from the site. "According to our preliminary investigation, he (the accused) was living here on rent and was known to everyone in the area as a dog trainer. Therefore, people used to leave their dogs with him, at the rate of ₹ 1,000 per day, when they went outside and he would look after the canines," Karthick said. At present, around 13 dogs are present at the site and after their owners have been identified, the police will hand over the canines to them. WATCH | UK: American XL Bully Dogs to be banned; PM Sunak says, 'urgent need to ban this crossbreed' He further said that they have constituted a special investigation team to look into the case. "We first need to catch the accused and then find out if any others were also involved in the racket," the officer stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Drug dealer trained dogs to bite people in police uniform during raids

The United Kingdom's chief veterinary officer said that there will be an “amnesty” before a complete ban is imposed on American XL Bullies after an expert blamed the entire breed for almost half of the attacks on humans and other dogs. 
 
On Friday, UK PM Rishi Sunak announced that his government is considering labelling the XL Bully as a breed and aims to ban it by the year's end after two dogs killed a father-of-two while he was trying to protect his elderly mother. 
 
Although many people supported the increasing calls for a ban, the owners of Bully-type dogs panicked with worry of their pets getting seized and killed. 
 
With the aim to tackle the growing fears of people with pets, chief veterinary officer Professor Christine Middlemiss stated that the dogs won't be culled.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-vows-action-after-man-dies-in-dog-attack-orders-ban-on-american-xl-bully-breed-636321">UK PM Rishi Sunak vows action after man dies in dog attack, orders ban on American XL bully breed</a>

“There will be an amnesty,” said Prof Middlemiss, while speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. “So people that already have these dogs – and some of them will be well socialised, well managed, well trained – you will need to register and take certain actions,” she added. 
 
“Your dog will need to be neutered. It will need to be muzzled when out in public and on a leash and insured. But if you comply with these actions, and that means we’ll know where these dogs are, which will be a massive benefit, then yes, absolutely you will be able to keep your dog,” the professor said.

<h2>'Ban will not stop attacks by dogs'</h2>

The comments of the professor came as the 30-year-old man, who was arrested in connection with the death of Ian Price – the man who was killed by dogs – was released on conditional bail, as police stated that their investigation “continues at pace”. 
 
Although groups like the RSPCA, Kennel Club and British Veterinarian Association argued against a breed-specific ban, shadow policing minister of the Labour Party Alex Norris on Saturday stated that he did not agree with the argument of animal charities that a ban will not stop attacks.

WATCH |&nbsp;UK: American XL Bully Dogs to be banned; PM Sunak says, 'urgent need to ban this crossbreed'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-american-xl-bully-dogs-to-be-banned-pm-sunak-says-urgent-need-to-ban-this-crossbreed-636346/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
“The data is there, we know the most recent fatalities, the majority of them have been due to this breed,” he said while speaking to Times Radio. “So you know the evidence is there and is growing,” he added. 
 
“I understand why they take the position that they take, they want to see good policymaking. We of course share that there is just a public safety issue here that cannot be ignored,” the minister said.&nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>. 
 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The United Kingdom's chief veterinary officer said that there will be an “amnesty” before a complete ban is imposed on American XL Bullies after an expert blamed the entire breed for almost half of the attacks on humans and other dogs.

The United Kingdom's chief veterinary officer said that there will be an “amnesty” before a complete ban is imposed on American XL Bullies after an expert blamed the entire breed for almost half of the attacks on humans and other dogs. On Friday, UK PM Rishi Sunak announced that his government is considering labelling the XL Bully as a breed and aims to ban it by the year's end after two dogs killed a father-of-two while he was trying to protect his elderly mother. Although many people supported the increasing calls for a ban, the owners of Bully-type dogs panicked with worry of their pets getting seized and killed. With the aim to tackle the growing fears of people with pets, chief veterinary officer Professor Christine Middlemiss stated that the dogs won't be culled. ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak vows action after man dies in dog attack, orders ban on American XL bully breed “There will be an amnesty,” said Prof Middlemiss, while speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. “So people that already have these dogs – and some of them will be well socialised, well managed, well trained – you will need to register and take certain actions,” she added. “Your dog will need to be neutered. It will need to be muzzled when out in public and on a leash and insured. But if you comply with these actions, and that means we’ll know where these dogs are, which will be a massive benefit, then yes, absolutely you will be able to keep your dog,” the professor said. 'Ban will not stop attacks by dogs' The comments of the professor came as the 30-year-old man, who was arrested in connection with the death of Ian Price – the man who was killed by dogs – was released on conditional bail, as police stated that their investigation “continues at pace”. Although groups like the RSPCA, Kennel Club and British Veterinarian Association argued against a breed-specific ban, shadow policing minister of the Labour Party Alex Norris on Saturday stated that he did not agree with the argument of animal charities that a ban will not stop attacks. WATCH | UK: American XL Bully Dogs to be banned; PM Sunak says, 'urgent need to ban this crossbreed' “The data is there, we know the most recent fatalities, the majority of them have been due to this breed,” he said while speaking to Times Radio. “So you know the evidence is there and is growing,” he added. “I understand why they take the position that they take, they want to see good policymaking. We of course share that there is just a public safety issue here that cannot be ignored,” the minister said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No culling of American XL bully dogs, but new rules for owners in UK

Dogs, our loyal companions, never cease to amaze us with their emotional intelligence. But hold on to your leashes. A recent study suggested they might be doing something even more astonishing while they catch some Zs. In a pilot study involving 13 furry participants, researchers have stumbled upon an intriguing canine superpower. It appears that dogs can tune in to our conversations even in the depths of their dreams. Imagine that!

Led by ethologist Huba Eleod and his team from Eotvos Lorand University, this study used brainwave-measuring devices to peek into the minds of sleeping dogs. The canines were exposed to both human and canine voices while awake, dozing, and in a state of blissful slumber.

Various sounds were used during the experiment, including yelps, whines, growls, coughs, laughs, sighs, and yawns. To ensure a peaceful canine siesta, no jarring or negative sounds were used.&nbsp;

<h2>Canine as detectives?&nbsp;</h2>

The study found that even during non-REM sleep, our furry friends could distinguish between human and canine voices. Not only that, they could sense the emotional tone of the communication, whether it was positive or neutral. Humans are not the only ones who manage to process information while snoozing.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/morocco-ambassador-maliki-welcomes-indias-offer-of-assistance-after-deadly-earthquake-635132">Morocco Ambassador Maliki welcomes India's offer of assistance after deadly earthquake</a>

"This finding is significant insofar as it is the first evidence of complex auditory processing during sleep in dogs," Eotvos Loránd University ethologist Huba Eleod and colleagues stated in their paper.

This ability has also been spotted in primates and even some non-primates, like mice. It seems that processing social cues during sleep might be a universal skill among mammals.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nipah-virus-alert-in-keralas-kozhikode-after-two-unnatural-deaths-reported-in-district-635097">India: Nipah virus alert in Kerala's Kozhikode after two 'unnatural deaths' reported in district</a>

Sleep is more than just downtime. It is when our brains work their magic. Dogs, like us, rely on sleep to consolidate memories and process emotions. And as they age, their sleep patterns change, much like humans with dementia.&nbsp;

While more research is needed to solidify these findings, they do add to the growing list of similarities between canine and human sleep behavior. This strengthens the case for using dogs in comparative neurobiology research.

Watch | Can India amplify the voice of the global south?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-india-amplify-the-voice-of-the-global-south-633431/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Although use of a non-invasive ERP paradigm with dogs is quite labor-intensive, it is nevertheless the most feasible possibility to study vocal stimuli processing during sleep, as it does not require prior training and does not cause any distress or harm," the team wrote.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Dogs, our loyal companions, never cease to amaze us with their emotional intelligence. But hold on to your leashes. A recent study suggested they might be doing something even more astonishing while they catch some Zs.

Dogs, our loyal companions, never cease to amaze us with their emotional intelligence. But hold on to your leashes. A recent study suggested they might be doing something even more astonishing while they catch some Zs. In a pilot study involving 13 furry participants, researchers have stumbled upon an intriguing canine superpower. It appears that dogs can tune in to our conversations even in the depths of their dreams. Imagine that! Led by ethologist Huba Eleod and his team from Eotvos Lorand University, this study used brainwave-measuring devices to peek into the minds of sleeping dogs. The canines were exposed to both human and canine voices while awake, dozing, and in a state of blissful slumber. Various sounds were used during the experiment, including yelps, whines, growls, coughs, laughs, sighs, and yawns. To ensure a peaceful canine siesta, no jarring or negative sounds were used. Canine as detectives? The study found that even during non-REM sleep, our furry friends could distinguish between human and canine voices. Not only that, they could sense the emotional tone of the communication, whether it was positive or neutral. Humans are not the only ones who manage to process information while snoozing. Also Read | Morocco Ambassador Maliki welcomes India's offer of assistance after deadly earthquake "This finding is significant insofar as it is the first evidence of complex auditory processing during sleep in dogs," Eotvos Loránd University ethologist Huba Eleod and colleagues stated in their paper. This ability has also been spotted in primates and even some non-primates, like mice. It seems that processing social cues during sleep might be a universal skill among mammals. Also Read | India: Nipah virus alert in Kerala's Kozhikode after two 'unnatural deaths' reported in district Sleep is more than just downtime. It is when our brains work their magic. Dogs, like us, rely on sleep to consolidate memories and process emotions. And as they age, their sleep patterns change, much like humans with dementia. While more research is needed to solidify these findings, they do add to the growing list of similarities between canine and human sleep behavior. This strengthens the case for using dogs in comparative neurobiology research. Watch | Can India amplify the voice of the global south? × "Although use of a non-invasive ERP paradigm with dogs is quite labor-intensive, it is nevertheless the most feasible possibility to study vocal stimuli processing during sleep, as it does not require prior training and does not cause any distress or harm," the team wrote. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Talk about keen ear! Dogs can listen to hooman chatter even when snoozing, finds study

International Dog day, check out stars who have given a luxury life to the rescue dogs

As the Hawaiian island of Maui recovers from the deadly wildfires, specialised search dogs have been pressed into service to search for the missing victims. These cadaver dogs can distinguish human remains from those of pets and other animals.

As the Hawaiian island of Maui recovers from the deadly wildfires, specialised search dogs have been pressed into service to search for the missing victims. These cadaver dogs can distinguish human remains from those of pets and other animals. At least 20 cadaver dogs have been working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) rescue teams since Monday (August 14), supporting state and local officials, combing through the ashes. Each cadaver dog that is currently involved with the search operation has to undergo a year of intense training, Even then, it takes a dog born with a particular personality to comb through the ashes and find the human remains, according to Mary Cablk, an expert in detection and systems at the Desert Research Institute in Nevada, where such canines are trained. “Dogs that really want to play, that are obsessive about their toy, that are confident and agile, that are not afraid of loud noises or weird surfaces, bring a lot to the table,” Cablk was quoted as saying by Reuters. Also read | Maui: Family stuck in deadly wildfires saved by THIS novel Apple emergency feature The dogs can search up to a couple of dozen homes’ burned down “footprints” each day. However, the number varies, depending on the conditions. According to Cablk, cadaver dogs are trained to not get excited when they find human remains. Unlike other trained dogs which run to the handler all excited, the dogs working fires will simply lay down once they have found something. The cadaver dogs, akin to other canine training dogs, receive a reward upon the completion of the task. If they successfully locate the remains, the handler gives them a chew toy to play with. Watch | Maui wildfires among the deadliest in US history | WION Climate Tracker Task remains monumental Despite the dogs and their uncanny ability to detect human flesh amid the ashes, the task remains monumental. Over 1,300 are still reported missing on the island. The Maui wildfire has been ranked the fifth-deadliest wildland fire in US history. The fires started on August 8 and have since killed at least 101 people. The death toll has surpassed the Camp Fire wildfire in California which spread across Butte County in November 2018 and claimed the lives of 85 people. The deadliest wildfire in US history remains the October 1871 wildfire in Peshtigo, Wisconsin where over 1,500 were killed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Maui: These highly-trained dogs are on mission to find wildfire victims

An Ohio animal rescue named Helping Hands for Furry Paws has come under scrutiny as authorities uncovered distressing conditions and 30 dead dogs. During the search, authorities also found 90 living dogs housed in inhumane conditions.&nbsp;The operator and owner of the nonprofit, Rhonda Murphy, is facing numerous charges of neglect and cruelty to companion animals, including felony allegations.&nbsp;

<h2>Disturbing findings&nbsp;</h2>

The Butler County Sheriff's Office conducted searches at two locations associated with the organisation. Shockingly, at one location, they found a total of 30 dead dogs, some in refrigerators and freezers in various stages of decomposition. The other 90 dogs were deprived of fresh air, food, and water, highlighting the alleged negligence and cruelty endured by the rescued animals.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-roaring-success-in-tiger-conservation-grows-spotlight-with-latest-numbers-620999">Bhutan's roaring success in Tiger conservation grows spotlight with latest numbers</a>

The conditions in which they were kept were far from suitable for their well-being.

Rhonda Murphy is at the centre of the investigation. As the investigation unfolds, it remains uncertain whether Rhonda Murphy has been arrested, booked, or formally charged.&nbsp;

Court records reportedly provided no information on her legal status, and her potential legal representation is yet to be disclosed. Authorities are closely monitoring the case's developments.

<h2>Condition&nbsp;of rescued dogs&nbsp;</h2>

The rescued dogs were found in deplorable conditions at the Madison Township location. One garage contained over 25 dogs confined in cages without proper ventilation or air conditioning, subjecting them to oppressive temperatures reaching 89 degrees.&nbsp;

The cages were contaminated with faecal matter and urine, and the dogs were deprived of essential necessities like food and water.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/song-about-going-to-prison-plays-as-trump-takes-to-stage-in-rally-620990">Song about 'going to prison' plays as Trump takes to stage in rally</a>

Amid the dire circumstances, authorities uncovered a particular cage that housed a mother dog with her eight newborn puppies.&nbsp;The main house held 11 dogs in conditions described as "hoarder-like" by Sheriff's officials.&nbsp;

Watch | UK: Health agency report shows slight increase in hospital admission

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-health-agency-report-shows-slight-increase-in-hospital-admission-621004/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The terrible odour inside was described as "horrendous," leading deputies to take breaks outside for fresh air. The state of this location has now raised concerns about the overall management and resources available for the welfare of the animals.&nbsp;The Animal Friends Humane Society stepped in to take custody of the seized dogs, an act that significantly increased their animal population by almost double.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

An Ohio animal rescue named Helping Hands for Furry Paws has come under scrutiny as authorities uncovered distressing conditions and 30 dead dogs. During the search, authorities also found 90 living dogs housed in inhumane conditions.

An Ohio animal rescue named Helping Hands for Furry Paws has come under scrutiny as authorities uncovered distressing conditions and 30 dead dogs. During the search, authorities also found 90 living dogs housed in inhumane conditions. The operator and owner of the nonprofit, Rhonda Murphy, is facing numerous charges of neglect and cruelty to companion animals, including felony allegations. Disturbing findings The Butler County Sheriff's Office conducted searches at two locations associated with the organisation. Shockingly, at one location, they found a total of 30 dead dogs, some in refrigerators and freezers in various stages of decomposition. The other 90 dogs were deprived of fresh air, food, and water, highlighting the alleged negligence and cruelty endured by the rescued animals. Also Read | Bhutan's roaring success in Tiger conservation grows spotlight with latest numbers The conditions in which they were kept were far from suitable for their well-being. Rhonda Murphy is at the centre of the investigation. As the investigation unfolds, it remains uncertain whether Rhonda Murphy has been arrested, booked, or formally charged. Court records reportedly provided no information on her legal status, and her potential legal representation is yet to be disclosed. Authorities are closely monitoring the case's developments. Condition of rescued dogs The rescued dogs were found in deplorable conditions at the Madison Township location. One garage contained over 25 dogs confined in cages without proper ventilation or air conditioning, subjecting them to oppressive temperatures reaching 89 degrees. The cages were contaminated with faecal matter and urine, and the dogs were deprived of essential necessities like food and water. Also Read | Song about 'going to prison' plays as Trump takes to stage in rally Amid the dire circumstances, authorities uncovered a particular cage that housed a mother dog with her eight newborn puppies. The main house held 11 dogs in conditions described as "hoarder-like" by Sheriff's officials. Watch | UK: Health agency report shows slight increase in hospital admission × The terrible odour inside was described as "horrendous," leading deputies to take breaks outside for fresh air. The state of this location has now raised concerns about the overall management and resources available for the welfare of the animals. The Animal Friends Humane Society stepped in to take custody of the seized dogs, an act that significantly increased their animal population by almost double. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ohio animal rescue nightmare: 30 dead dogs discovered, 90 more rescued from horrific conditions

In a bizarre trend, mango pits are being kept as “pets” by Chinese people, who have now gone beyond keeping young animals.

The latest “animal” companion fad in which pets are being created by youngsters from mango seed with sprouting hair has left the mainland social media shocked after online media outlet Jiupai News reported it on July 20.

The strange practice is a follow-up of a similar type of bizarre trend of university students using cardboard to make “pets” out of mango pits&nbsp;which started last year. As per the owners of this bizarre mango pit, such pets give them the same happiness as a dog or cat and provide them with therapeutic comfort.

Two such pets are being raised by a 19-year-old university student Liu, who is from the northern Chinese port city of Tianjin. Liu even maintains a “mango pit diary” of the pair on Xiaohongshu, which is a Chinese version of Instagram.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-nuclear-cabbage-619972">China employs 'nuclear cabbage' strategy for dominance in South China Sea</a>

So far, Liu has shared 11 diary entries about Da Mao and Er Mao, or Hairy I and II, both of whom have been designated by her as female. She also documents the changes she notices in the texture of the hair of the mango pits and writes about how it changes from being dry and prickly to something which is “very comfortable to pat”. The diary also tracks how the mango seed changes colour from yellowish to white.

<h2>Right kind of mango makes ideal pit pet</h2>

Another mango pit raiser Xiaomeng, while speaking to Jiupai News, said that the owner needs to buy the right kind of mango to raise an ideal pit pet. It requires a lot of work to nurture the “pet” as the seed just not only requires to be washed and brushed&nbsp;but needs to be kept in the sun to prevent mould.

Xiaomeng has been using a hair dryer while brushing her mango pit so as to make it fluffy and Liu has been applying aloe vera gel to the seed. Liu has described her two “daughters” as “ideal pets” which are a “cheap substitute for hamsters”.

WATCH |&nbsp;United States will put limit on investments in China, says reports

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-will-put-limit-on-investments-in-china-says-reports-620498/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

She stated that her roommate has also been raising a hairy companion mango but it is “not as good-looking as mine”. As per Liu’s social media posts, commenters also volunteered to be “aunties” to the mango pits. “Will hair conditioner and skin cream make their hair smoother?” one person quizzed.

“I think Da Mao looks quieter while Er Mao seems to have a lively character,” while another said. “So nice that they can bring these pets home after graduation, and we don’t see pet cats and dogs being abandoned,” a third person said while backing the fad.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In a bizarre trend, mango pits are being kept as “pets” by Chinese people, who have now gone beyond keeping young animals. The latest “animal” companion fad in which pets are being created by youngsters from mango seed with sprouting hair has left the mainland social media shocked after online media outlet Jiupai News reported it on July 20.

In a bizarre trend, mango pits are being kept as “pets” by Chinese people, who have now gone beyond keeping young animals. The latest “animal” companion fad in which pets are being created by youngsters from mango seed with sprouting hair has left the mainland social media shocked after online media outlet Jiupai News reported it on July 20. The strange practice is a follow-up of a similar type of bizarre trend of university students using cardboard to make “pets” out of mango pits which started last year. As per the owners of this bizarre mango pit, such pets give them the same happiness as a dog or cat and provide them with therapeutic comfort. Two such pets are being raised by a 19-year-old university student Liu, who is from the northern Chinese port city of Tianjin. Liu even maintains a “mango pit diary” of the pair on Xiaohongshu, which is a Chinese version of Instagram. ALSO READ | China employs 'nuclear cabbage' strategy for dominance in South China Sea So far, Liu has shared 11 diary entries about Da Mao and Er Mao, or Hairy I and II, both of whom have been designated by her as female. She also documents the changes she notices in the texture of the hair of the mango pits and writes about how it changes from being dry and prickly to something which is “very comfortable to pat”. The diary also tracks how the mango seed changes colour from yellowish to white. Right kind of mango makes ideal pit pet Another mango pit raiser Xiaomeng, while speaking to Jiupai News, said that the owner needs to buy the right kind of mango to raise an ideal pit pet. It requires a lot of work to nurture the “pet” as the seed just not only requires to be washed and brushed but needs to be kept in the sun to prevent mould. Xiaomeng has been using a hair dryer while brushing her mango pit so as to make it fluffy and Liu has been applying aloe vera gel to the seed. Liu has described her two “daughters” as “ideal pets” which are a “cheap substitute for hamsters”. WATCH | United States will put limit on investments in China, says reports She stated that her roommate has also been raising a hairy companion mango but it is “not as good-looking as mine”. As per Liu’s social media posts, commenters also volunteered to be “aunties” to the mango pits. “Will hair conditioner and skin cream make their hair smoother?” one person quizzed. “I think Da Mao looks quieter while Er Mao seems to have a lively character,” while another said. “So nice that they can bring these pets home after graduation, and we don’t see pet cats and dogs being abandoned,” a third person said while backing the fad. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mango pits or pets | Chinese raising hairy seeds like dogs and cats, grooming their 'hair'

The dog owners in a southern French town will now have to get the DNA of their pets tested under new rules to tackle the scourge of poop-strewn pavements. &nbsp;

The mayor of Beziers introduced the tests and made them compulsory. The move will now make it easier for the street cleaners to identify the owners by taking samples from poop droppings they find in the centre of the town.

The ones responsible for failing to pick up their pet's poop will be forced to pay a fine of 120 euros ($135) for cleaning the mess.

"I'm outraged that some people never clean up after their animals," Mayor Robert Menard told local radio France Bleu at the weekend. "We did a count: the town picked up 1,000 (dog turds) just in the centre. That's not right."

"We thought that if we put police officers on the street it would have an effect, but when there's a police officer, people clean up. It's when there's no one around that they don't crouch down and do their civic duty," he added.

As per news agency AFP reports, Menard has been seeking to introduce dog DNA testing since the year 2016, but previously, his efforts were rejected by the state on legal grounds.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gigi-hadid-arrested-at-cayman-island-for-possession-of-cannabis-pleads-guilty-at-court-617250">Gigi Hadid arrested in Cayman Islands for possession of cannabis, pleads guilty at court</a>

The new rules have been introduced for the next two years on an experimental basis.&nbsp;

Now the dog owners in the centre of Beziers will have to prove if they have gotten the DNA test done, with police authorised to issue 38-euro fines to anyone failing to produce an identity document.

However, the 120-euro cleaning up fees will not be enforced for three months, with Menard promising that there will be a soft launch.

"People who don't clean up after their dogs couldn't give a damn about anyone," Menard added. "Sometimes I hear people say, 'It's up to municipal workers to clean up after my dog.' They'll see now. It's going to cost 120 euros."&nbsp;

DNA testing for dogs has been previously introduced in cities like Tel Aviv in Israel, Valencia in Spain and some areas of London.&nbsp;

Landlords in some private residential compounds in Florida have also introduced rules that require residents to provide DNA samples of their animals to identify pavement foulers.

The mayor's office in Beziers said cleaning up dog faeces cost the municipality of 75,000 people around 80,000 euros per year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The dog owners in a southern French town will now have to get the DNA of their pets tested under new rules to tackle the scourge of poop-strewn pavements. The mayor of Beziers introduced the tests and made them compulsory.

The dog owners in a southern French town will now have to get the DNA of their pets tested under new rules to tackle the scourge of poop-strewn pavements. The mayor of Beziers introduced the tests and made them compulsory. The move will now make it easier for the street cleaners to identify the owners by taking samples from poop droppings they find in the centre of the town. The ones responsible for failing to pick up their pet's poop will be forced to pay a fine of 120 euros ($135) for cleaning the mess. "I'm outraged that some people never clean up after their animals," Mayor Robert Menard told local radio France Bleu at the weekend. "We did a count: the town picked up 1,000 (dog turds) just in the centre. That's not right." "We thought that if we put police officers on the street it would have an effect, but when there's a police officer, people clean up. It's when there's no one around that they don't crouch down and do their civic duty," he added. As per news agency AFP reports, Menard has been seeking to introduce dog DNA testing since the year 2016, but previously, his efforts were rejected by the state on legal grounds. Also read: Gigi Hadid arrested in Cayman Islands for possession of cannabis, pleads guilty at court The new rules have been introduced for the next two years on an experimental basis. Now the dog owners in the centre of Beziers will have to prove if they have gotten the DNA test done, with police authorised to issue 38-euro fines to anyone failing to produce an identity document. However, the 120-euro cleaning up fees will not be enforced for three months, with Menard promising that there will be a soft launch. "People who don't clean up after their dogs couldn't give a damn about anyone," Menard added. "Sometimes I hear people say, 'It's up to municipal workers to clean up after my dog.' They'll see now. It's going to cost 120 euros." DNA testing for dogs has been previously introduced in cities like Tel Aviv in Israel, Valencia in Spain and some areas of London. Landlords in some private residential compounds in Florida have also introduced rules that require residents to provide DNA samples of their animals to identify pavement foulers. The mayor's office in Beziers said cleaning up dog faeces cost the municipality of 75,000 people around 80,000 euros per year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Poop patrol: French town orders mandatory DNA testing for dogs, plans fines for mess

In Washington, the city's growing rat population has become a cause for concern. With warmer winters, a rising population, and the proliferation of outdoor dining areas after the Covid pandemic, the rat problem has been exacerbated. As a response, a group of residents has taken matters into their own hands by organizing weekly "ratting" expeditions.

<h2>How 'ratting' works&nbsp;</h2>

As per AFP, during these expeditions, a group of humans and their dogs go on a hunt for rats. The diverse group of participants includes individuals of different races, ages, and backgrounds, some of whom travel from neighbouring states to join in the ratting activities.&nbsp;

The group utilises various dog breeds, such as dachshunds, terriers, and sighthounds, which are adept at chasing and capturing rats.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/33-year-old-man-falls-4000-feet-to-his-death-from-grand-canyons-skywalk-605881">33-year-old man falls 4,000 feet to his death from Grand Canyon's Skywalk</a>

<h2>Why not just use rat poison?</h2>

As per the hunters, their dogs are more effective in controlling the rat population. The dogs quickly catch and kill the rats, quickly snapping their spines, preventing them from suffering prolonged agony.&nbsp;

"Primitive but effective," says one of the hunters, 75-year-old Teddy Moritz, aka 'Grandma Death'. "It's a good way to organically control rats," she adds.

Rat poison, in contrast, takes time to exterminate the vermin and can harm other species like such as hawks and owls in the process. Another way of pest control is 'snap traps' that can also take days to kill rats.

Talking to AFP, rodentologist Bobby Corrigan said that while scientific data validating the efficacy of ratting is limited, the use of dogs for pest control dates back centuries, particularly on farms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-us-high-school-student-denied-diploma-after-she-danced-her-heart-out-in-graduation-ceremony-605888">Watch | US high school student denied diploma after she danced her heart out in graduation ceremony</a>

"There's no doubt about it — these days, dogs are making a resurgence in being used as a rat control tool," he said.

<h2>Washington's rat problem</h2>

The District of Columbia, as Washington was previously known, consistently makes the top five list of America's rattiest cities. According to local media reports, there was a significant increase in the number of calls to a city hotline for rat issues in 2022 compared to the previous year. The hotline received nearly 13,400 calls from concerned residents seeking assistance with rat-related problems. In comparison, last year they answered some 2,000 fewer calls.&nbsp;

Over the course of a three-hour expedition, the group achieves more than 30 rat kills, disposing of the bodies in trash cans. The participants emphasise the teamwork between humans and dogs, considering it an effective method of pest control that benefits the city.

<h2>Dogs, cats and humans</h2>

Dogs are not the only animals involved in tackling Washington's rat problem. Cats also play a role, primarily preying on mice.&nbsp;

The Human Rescue Alliance launched the "Blue Collar Cats" program in 2017, which matches stray cats with local businesses. The cats receive vaccines, shelter, a dedicated caretaker, and a reliable food source, and neutered to prevent breeding.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In Washington, the city's growing rat population has become a cause for concern. With warmer winters, a rising population, and the proliferation of outdoor dining areas after the Covid pandemic, the rat problem has been exacerbated.

In Washington, the city's growing rat population has become a cause for concern. With warmer winters, a rising population, and the proliferation of outdoor dining areas after the Covid pandemic, the rat problem has been exacerbated. As a response, a group of residents has taken matters into their own hands by organizing weekly "ratting" expeditions. How 'ratting' works As per AFP, during these expeditions, a group of humans and their dogs go on a hunt for rats. The diverse group of participants includes individuals of different races, ages, and backgrounds, some of whom travel from neighbouring states to join in the ratting activities. The group utilises various dog breeds, such as dachshunds, terriers, and sighthounds, which are adept at chasing and capturing rats. Also read | 33-year-old man falls 4,000 feet to his death from Grand Canyon's Skywalk Why not just use rat poison? As per the hunters, their dogs are more effective in controlling the rat population. The dogs quickly catch and kill the rats, quickly snapping their spines, preventing them from suffering prolonged agony. "Primitive but effective," says one of the hunters, 75-year-old Teddy Moritz, aka 'Grandma Death'. "It's a good way to organically control rats," she adds. Rat poison, in contrast, takes time to exterminate the vermin and can harm other species like such as hawks and owls in the process. Another way of pest control is 'snap traps' that can also take days to kill rats. Talking to AFP, rodentologist Bobby Corrigan said that while scientific data validating the efficacy of ratting is limited, the use of dogs for pest control dates back centuries, particularly on farms. Also read | Watch | US high school student denied diploma after she danced her heart out in graduation ceremony "There's no doubt about it — these days, dogs are making a resurgence in being used as a rat control tool," he said. Washington's rat problem The District of Columbia, as Washington was previously known, consistently makes the top five list of America's rattiest cities. According to local media reports, there was a significant increase in the number of calls to a city hotline for rat issues in 2022 compared to the previous year. The hotline received nearly 13,400 calls from concerned residents seeking assistance with rat-related problems. In comparison, last year they answered some 2,000 fewer calls. Over the course of a three-hour expedition, the group achieves more than 30 rat kills, disposing of the bodies in trash cans. The participants emphasise the teamwork between humans and dogs, considering it an effective method of pest control that benefits the city. Dogs, cats and humans Dogs are not the only animals involved in tackling Washington's rat problem. Cats also play a role, primarily preying on mice. The Human Rescue Alliance launched the "Blue Collar Cats" program in 2017, which matches stray cats with local businesses. The cats receive vaccines, shelter, a dedicated caretaker, and a reliable food source, and neutered to prevent breeding. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Primitive but effective': Washington turns to dogs and cats to help deal with rising rat problem

dogs

Dogs, News on Dogs, stories on Dogs, articles on Dogs, Dogs stories at Wion, Dogs news, Dogs latest news