Liquid Biopsy Helps Detect Cancer in Dogs

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: August 19th, 2023

Dogs of all ages can develop various cancers, with roughly 6 million new cases in the United States every year. And according to dvm360, cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs who are over 1 year of age.

Though treatment options are available, catching the cancer too late could lead to a poor outcome, so early detection is critical. The harsh reality, unfortunately, is that pet parents might not realize there’s a problem until the cancer has advanced and their dog is showing serious signs of illness. Enter: liquid biopsy.

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What Is a Liquid Biopsy?

Put simply, a liquid biopsy is a type of blood test that looks for cancer cells and tumor DNA. Unlike a surgical biopsy, this is a non-invasive test. And it can be used in combination with other diagnostic methods to determine if a patient has cancer.

PetDX and the OncoK9 Liquid Biopsy

Liquid biopsies have been used in human medicine, so Dr. Andi Flory, a veterinary oncologist and co-founder of PetDX, wanted to study it for use in dogs as well, in the hopes that it would help with early canine cancer detection.

PetDX developed the OncoK9 liquid biopsy, which is a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) test that can alert a veterinarian to the fact that a dog has cancer, even if there aren’t any obvious signs.

The CANcer Detection in Dogs (CANDid) study, which involved more than 1,000 dogs in multiple countries, assessed the effectiveness of OncoK9. Experts discovered that the test was able to find 30 types of cancer. And it was able to detect cancer in dogs who didn’t yet have clinical signs – in other words, in asymptomatic canines, too.

A Potential Addition to Your Dog’s Routine Exams

Veterinarians can utilize the OnkoK9 test before and after a dog is diagnosed with cancer, to both detect the disease and monitor a patient receiving treatment for it.

According to PetDX, this liquid biopsy can be used as an annual screening tool for dogs aged 7 years and up. Veterinarians can also use it for younger dogs who have a higher risk of developing cancer (i.e., breeds with a higher risk).

Click here to learn more about OncoK9 and to find a clinic that offers it. Then, talk to your veterinarian to see if they recommend cancer screening for your dog.

Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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Do Grooming Gloves Work?

Grooming your pet is crucial for maintaining their health and hygiene, especially if you have a dog that tends to shed frequently or spends much of their time playing in the dirt and mud. However, the grooming process can be messy and time-consuming. This leaves many pet parents searching for a more convenient solution.Recently, a new grooming tool has been gaining popularity: pet grooming gloves. These gloves feature soft, rubber nubs on the palms that work like a brush or curry comb, gently removing loose hair, dirt, and dander.But do these gloves live up to the hype? Or are they just another gimmick? Let’s explore the benefits, drawbacks, and effectiveness of pet grooming gloves, including my experience using a grooming glove with my four pets.What Are Pet Grooming Gloves?Grooming gloves are a grooming tool that the groomer or pet parent can wear, keeping their hands and fingernails clean during grooming. It also eliminates the need to juggle a separate brush, with the brush-like nubs built directly into the palm of the glove. As you run your and over your pet’s coat, the built-in bristles or nubs work like a brush to remove loose hair, dirt, dust, dander, and debris.Different brands of grooming gloves/mitts have nubs or bristles of various lengths or styles. Finding grooming gloves best suited for your pet’s coat type is the secret to success. For example, a short-coated dog will benefit from gloves with nubs similar to a curry comb, while a longer-coated dog may need a longer bristle to reach into their undercoat.What Makes the Grooming Gloves Stand Out?You may want to switch from a regular brush to using a grooming glove at least part of the time for several reasons. Here are some factors to consider:Bonding TimeWhile any grooming session offers quality bonding time for you and your pet, using your hand to groom them in a petting motion creates a unique experience. This brings you closer together, allowing you to connect, showing love and affection through trust, which is so important for strengthening that special bond pets and their people share.Cleaner GroomingNot only do grooming gloves keep your hands clean during grooming, as they are protected inside the glove, but they are also surprisingly easy to clean! I’ll break down the steps of quickly and effectively cleaning your gloves later in this article.FlexibilityHave you ever struggled to reach a specific spot on your dog during grooming? Stiff brushes and combs can make it hard to effectively groom the nooks and crannies like your pet’s armpits or, in smaller pets, even around their neck/face. Grooming gloves, on the other hand (or paw), flex easily with your hand.Benefits of MassageIn addition to removing dirt and loose fur, the nubs on your grooming gloves massage your pet’s skin. Not only is this a comforting and enjoyable experience, but it can also have some significant benefits, including removing dead skin, improving circulation, relieving muscle tension, and more.Comfort for the GroomerWhile most of this list focuses on the benefits grooming gloves offer your pet, it’s also a more comfortable solution for you. Holding a brush or comb for an extended time, regardless of how the handle is designed, will eventually lead to cramping in your hand. Wearing a grooming glove allows you to work through a long grooming session with minimal discomfort.How to Use a Pet Grooming GloveWhether you’re interested in experimenting with grooming gloves or making the switch, the first step is finding a pair that suits both you and your dog.Sizing: Most companies offer gloves in various sizes, accommodating pet parents of all sizes and ages, including “junior” or children’s sizes if your grooming routine involves the whole family. If you are shopping in person, take the time to try on different sizes to ensure you are purchasing the one that best suits your hand. For those shopping online, carefully measure your hand as outlined in the sizing guide to find the recommended size.Glove vs Mitt: There is no “right” answer as to whether you should purchase a grooming glove or a mitt. This comes down to personal preference. Gloves will allow you to maintain the use of your fingers, while a mitt can cover a wider surface area.Bristle Style: The most common grooming gloves are made with soft rubber nubs, more like a curry comb than a brush. However, there are other styles on the market. Take the time to explore your options and find the style that best suits your pet’s coat type.Once you have found the right glove, learning how to use them is simple.Spray the silicone or rubber surface of the glove with a bit of water before getting started. This will help collect the fur and dirt instead of letting it fall all over. Place your hand, palm down, on your pet’s coat and gently rub in the direction of their hair growth. Continue with this brushing motion around the body.When you notice that the hair has started to collect in the glove, carefully peel the fur off and dispose of it. Spray the glove before starting again. Continue until you’re happy with the state of your pet’s coat (or until they become agitated and clearly need a break).Is it bathtime in your house? You can also use a grooming glove in the bath to help work the soap into your pet’s coat. This also offers a layer of protection on your hands for those bathing pets that maybe aren’t as happy with the idea of getting wet. Cat parents, I’m looking at you…How to Clean Grooming GlovesOne of the reasons that pet grooming gloves are so popular is the ease of cleaning. Once you have removed the collected fur from the gloves, they can be rinsed or cleaned with soap and water. Allow them to air dry.Remember that a quick rinse may not remove all the dirt and dander they have collected. It’s a quick solution between uses, but a complete clean is needed periodically to keep the gloves fresh and clean.Do Grooming Gloves Work for Cats?Yes! While most grooming gloves are marketed to dogs and dog parents, they are an excellent option for any pet with fur to maintain. I have seen them used for grooming dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, horses, and even llamas.

What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?

When the celebrations begin and the fireworks are brought out, they can become a source of anxiety and fear for many dogs, and it is not uncommon for them to run away in panic. If your pet happens to run away because of fireworks, it can be a distressing experience for sure – both for you and them – but it is crucial to remain as calm as possible and take action to find them as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know in order to locate your pet quickly and to prevent any future escapes.What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?Fireworks are a big part of festivities such as Fourth of July, New Years Eve, and even smaller celebrations, such as people’s weddings and birthdays. Often, you cannot prevent this, as fireworks can be released by neighbors or at the town square. And even if you are near your pooch, one moment can be enough for them to bolt off. Here is what to do if that happens:#1 Stay calm:First of all, it is essential to stay calm and composed. Keep a level head, as panicking won’t help you think clearly or act effectively. Take a few deep breaths and start your search methodically.#2 Check your home and immediate surroundings:Dogs often don’t go far at first. Thoroughly search your home, yard, and nearby areas. Look under porches, in bushes, and any hiding spots they might find comforting. #3 Call and listen:Walk around the neighborhood calling your dog’s name. Pause and listen for any sounds of movement or barking in response. Sometimes, a frightened doggo may be nearby but too scared to come out immediately.#4 Use a familiar scent:Leave out your dog’s bedding, favorite toys, and some pieces of your clothing. The familiar smells can lure them back home. Placing their food and water outside can also help. Remember that dogs have super powerful noses and will pick up scents with ease. To help broaden your search, you can also inform your neighbors about your missing pet. Provide them with a description and your contact information. Neighbors can keep an eye out and may have already seen your pet. Similarly, you can post about your missing dog on local social media groups, such as Facebook community pages, Nextdoor, and other neighborhood forums. Include a clear photo, a description, and your contact details. The more people are aware, the better the chances of finding your dog. If enough time passes, you can also visit the nearby animal shelters, rescue organizations, and vet clinics. Bring a recent photo of your dog with you or easier identification. Leave your contact information and check back regularly.Another great idea is to make flyers with a clear photo of your pooch, a fitting description, and your contact information. Distribute them around your neighborhood, in local businesses, and public areas. This traditional method can still be very effective.Preventing Your Pet Runs Away Or Gets Lost Due to FireworksOnce you find your pet it is important to take steps to prevent this from ever happening again. Here are some basic steps to take:#1 Secure your home and your yard: Ensure that your house and yard are secure. Check for any weak spots in the fence, or find areas where your pet could escape. #2 Microchip:Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the information is up-to-date. In addition to a microchip, your dog should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number.

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Rescue Dog Steals Hearts at Westminster Dog Show 2024

The Westminster Dog Show is a tradition that dog lovers everywhere look forward to each year. It brings award-winning dogs and professional handlers together for a competition celebrating man’s best friend. But this year, an unlikely competitor stole the hearts of spectators and attendees. Miles, a rescue dog from Pennsylvania, was one of over 2,500 dogs to compete in the Westminster Dog Show 2024. The seven-year-old rescue dog was classified as an “All-American Dog,” a term used to describe mutts or mixed-breed dogs. While the annual dog show is only open to purebreds, the Masters Agility Championship and Masters Obedience Championship are open to all breeds (and mixes). It was on the agility course that Miles’ unique energy and impressive skill quickly earned him recognition as a fan favorite. This wasn’t the first time he competed. In fact, Miles had already participated in the Masters Agility Championship twice before, as well as the American Kennel Club Agility Nationals twice, where he was named the top All-American Dog in his category each time. Seeing the joy Miles exhibited while running agility was enough to make any dog lover smile. But the truly heartwarming part of this story is his journey to where he is today and the loving owner who made it all possible.

Pairing Shelter Dogs Reduces Stress and Helps Them Get Adopted Faster

Dogs are social creatures who rely on companionship, especially in stressful situations. Having a companion doesn’t only diminish loneliness, it can also have a huge impact on dogs’ future, especially those waiting for a furever home.A new study, led by Erica Feuerbacher, associate professor in the Colledge of Agriculture Life Sciences’ School of Animal Sciences found that living with a roommate lowers stress levels in shelter dogs and helps them get adopted more quickly.According to ASPCA, approximately 3.1 million dogs enter shelters nationwide each year. This new study may offer a potential solution for overcrowded animal shelters that are overwhelmed by the surge in unwanted pets and longer waits for dogs needing adoption. “Despite being a social species, dogs are often housed alone in shelters to reduce disease transmission and possible injury from inter-dog conflict. But this social isolation can work against dogs’ behavioral health and adaptability,” said Feuerbacher. “We wanted to examine whether pair housing could be a useful intervention for improving shelter dogs’ welfare.”This groundbreaking study was published in the journal PLOS One. It is the first study to look into how U.S.-based shelter dogs cope when housed alone versus when they are living with a canine companion. This isn’t the first study that researched the benefits of co-housing dogs, but previous studies focused on laboratory beagles and veterinary school dogs. These dogs were housed in kennels long-term, usually for more than six months, for research and teaching purposes. On the other hand, shelter dogs spend an average of 35 days waiting to be adopted, and are, in most cases, used to social interactions prior to entering the shelter. For seven days, researchers studied 61 dogs at the Humane Society of Western Montana. Researchers placed half the dogs in co-housing with roommates who were picked through a compatibility test and brief introduction. The other half of the group was housed alone.Throughout the week, scientists observed the dogs and recorded common stress behaviors, including lip licking, pulling back their ears, and whining. They also took daily samples of dogs’ urine to measure cortisol and creatinine, which are biological markers of stress. “Dogs housed in shelters can face chronic levels of stress due to noise, confined kennel spaces, and limited access to social interaction,” said Feuerbacher adding that this can reduce a dog’s well-being, which may affect a dog’s adoptability. Scientists were happy to discover that dogs housed together showed fewer stress behaviors. Not only that, data showed that these pooches were adopted four days sooner than single-housed dogs. These results show that pairing shelter dogs may be a way for shelters and rescues to improve the quality of dogs’ lives, increase their chances of getting adopted, and shorten their stay in the shelter. Feuerbacher hopes that these findings will encourage shelters to pair dogs with suitable roommates to reduce dogs’ stress and showcase them at their best to potential adopters. “Many potential adopters might already have a dog or would like to engage in social activities with their dog,” Feuerbacher said. “Clearly exhibiting that a dog can successfully interact with other dogs might highlight those dogs as good matches - leading to more successful adoptions.” Dogs who get to have company while they are at the shelter aren’t just happier, they also get to behave more naturally and let their true personality shine through. Co-housing dogs is a win-win situation for everyone and an easy way for shelters to get more dogs adopted into loving homes. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can You Tame a Hamster?

With their adorable miniature size and curious eyes, it is no wonder that hamsters have become popular pets. But don’t let their size fool you… These little guys can be a lot to handle. Realizing that their adorable little pocket pet is prone to biting, many new hamster parents have one key question: Can you tame a hamster? Is it possible to build a close bond and relationship with this new tiny friend? The answer is yes! With patience and a few simple techniques, you can build the trust needed for your hamster to not only be comfortable being held but to enjoy it. Keep reading to discover the secrets of training a hamster, from creating the ideal environment to offering tasty treats. Start building a solid relationship and special memories with your hamster today. Do Hamsters Like to be Held? While I wish I could give you a black-and-white answer, the truth is that it depends. Just as some dogs love to be held while others are more independent, the same can be said about hamsters. Some hamsters are overly affectionate and love being given that kind of attention and physical affection. Others may be more resistant. This could be because they are nervous about being held and haven’t been tamed, or they have a more independent personality and simply prefer to be left alone. There is no way to know if your pet will warm up to being held without putting the time into taming them and seeing how they respond. Pay careful attention to your hamster’s body language. If you are working through everything outlined below and they still aren’t interested in being held for any length of time, they may be trying to tell you that it just isn’t their cup of tea. Do Hamster Bites Hurt? This is a common concern among new hamster parents, especially if you are considering a hamster for your child. Like most rodents, hamsters have little teeth that aren’t likely going to do much damage during a bit. However, the lack of lasting damage doesn’t mean it won’t hurt – especially if the one on the receiving end is a young child. Luckily, hamster bites can easily be prevented with a combination of boundaries to keep children safe and training to build trust and acceptance with your hamster. How Do Hamsters Show Affection? Learning to read your pet’s body language is the key to opening the door to communication. This means familiarizing yourself with the signs that they are happy and comfortable as well as the signs they are stressed or anxious. If your hamster is comfortable around you, you may see them stretch and yawn as if tired. This is their way of telling you that they are relaxed. When they stop to groom themselves, they are comfortable and confident enough in their surroundings that they can stop nervously monitoring their surroundings and focus on something else. Hamsters who have bonded with their people learn to recognize their scent and voice. When you reach into their cage to bring them out, a tame and affectionate hamster may come to you happily rather than being reactive or trying to escape. However, this isn’t always true, as some happy, tame hamsters are also shy. You know your pet best.

Is a Ferret the Right Pet For Me?

Ferrets are well-known for their playful personalities and mischievous antics – and who can resist their adorable faces? As a result, they have become an increasingly popular choice for pets. However, before you invite one of these energetic critters into your home, it’s essential to understand their unique needs! In this guide, I’ll explore the pros and cons of ferret ownership, including questions to ask yourself to determine if a ferret is the right pet for you. Plus, if you’re ready to move forward with your new pet, we’ll help you identify what to look for in a healthy ferret and the steps to take to prepare your home for your new furry friend’s arrival. Ferret Basics: Things You Should Know Before Getting a Ferret Before researching where to find your new friend, let’s step back and start with the basics. What will your new ferret require for a happy, healthy life? Are you prepared to meet those needs? Determining this should be the first step when considering any new pet, regardless of the pet you plan to adopt. Yes, even dogs and cats! Temperament Ferrets are social animals and require regular interaction with others. They are happiest when living in pairs or small groups for constant companionship. This also means they aren’t the type of pet that can be left to fend for themselves without regular quality time with their person or people. They can be startled easily and have sharp teeth that hurt considerably if they bite. This most commonly happens if they are surprised, startled, or handled incorrectly. For this reason, they may not be the best fit for homes with young children unless careful boundaries are established. Daily RoutineExperts recommend that ferrets be given at least 4 hours of active time outside their cage or habitat daily, six to eight hours when they are young. Failing to meet those needs can lead to boredom and a wide range of behavioral problems. When you start handling and playing with your ferret, you may notice they are naturally mouthy. To train your new ferret to play safely with people, avoid using your hands as a “toy.” Instead, use fun and ferret-safe toys like rubber balls, ropes, chew toys, or interactive cat toys. Avoid anything too small that they could swallow, as it could cause a life-threatening obstruction. Grooming While these adorable creatures are naturally clean, they have a distinct odor often described as musky. This scent is even stronger in unneutered ferrets. You can bathe your ferret regularly, but the smell will never disappear entirely. That being said, avoid the temptation to over-bathe your ferret. They should be bathed at most once or twice a month. Bathing them too often will strip their skin and coat of the protective natural oils, causing skin irritation or even making the smell worse! Diet Ferrets are carnivores requiring a high-protein, low-fiber, meat-based diet. This can be accomplished by feeding a commercially prepared ferret food or preparing a homemade diet. The amount they need to eat and the nutrients required to ensure their diet is balanced correctly will depend on their age, weight, lifestyle, and any underlying health concerns. Some foods that can be included in their meals include eggs, high-protein baby foods, kitten foods, turkey necks, game birds, or minced meat. Health and Veterinary CareLike other traditional companion animals, ferrets require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure no cause for concern. Finding a vet may be a little more challenging as there are fewer vets experienced with ferret care. These little critters are prone to several health problems like lymphoma, adrenal gland disease, respiratory problems, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. Staying on top of their vet care will help prevent issues and identify problems early when they are easier to address.Ideal Environment When creating the ideal habitat for your ferret, one of the biggest things to consider is the available space in your home. A ferret’s cage should be at least 18 inches by 18 inches by 30 inches, with a minimum of two levels and stairs or ramps to move between them. This means you must find space in your home for a cage of this size. This cage should include many enrichment opportunities, like toys, tubes, hammocks, and hiding spaces. In addition to setting up a cage with all the necessities, they will also need time to play and explore outside their cage. This means you will need to have a ferret-proofed area of the home where they can move about safely. They are masters of climbing and slipping through small spaces, which can make the process of ferret-proofing or keeping them contained in one area of the home challenging. Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Ferret Do you have enough space to accommodate your ferret’s habitat and the ability to ferret-proof an area of your home (they are escape artists)? Are you prepared for the high cost of veterinary care if your ferret encounters a medical emergency or any of the common health conditions listed above?Can you dedicate at least 4 hours per day to playtime and social interaction? Are ferrets legal to keep as pets in my area? Have you found a vet near you with experience in ferret care?Will you be comfortable with the strong, musky ferret odor (Yes, it will be in your home)?Do you have a young child in the home? If so, you may be better served by adopting a pet your child can handle and interact with safely.

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Veterinarians Warn About Rise in Deadly Parvo Cases

As loving pet parents, we do everything we can to keep our pets safe. From buying the best food we can afford to keeping their vaccinations up to date – we understand that our furry family members rely on us to care for them. Unfortunately, some illnesses make this more challenging. One example is the risk of deadly canine parvovirus (also known as parvo) in puppies. While there is a vaccine to protect dogs from the disease, there is a window of time before your puppy has received the complete series of vaccinations needed to be effective. It is highly contagious and spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, further increasing the risk during the curious stage of a puppy’s life. The disease was first discovered in 1978. It quickly spread, causing concern among veterinary professionals and dog lovers. During the pandemic, another concerning increase in cases was seen. Now, in 2024, veterinarians in several locations are sounding the alarm. In April, vets in Kansas City released a statement after The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City faced 20 cases in a week. At the same time, San Antonio Animal Care Services warned dog parents in the city that they, too, were seeing a rise in cases. Since that time, the areas of concern have continued to grow.What is Parvo? You may be wondering what parvo is and why veterinarians are so worried about the increase in cases. Canine Parvovirus is a disease that impacts a dog’s stomach and small intestines, disrupting their ability to digest food and absorb much-needed nutrients. It can also impact the lymphatic system, bone marrow, and heart. It is highly contagious and, when contracted, often severe or fatal. “Without treatment, up to 90% of animals will die,” explained Chief Veterinarian Melia Washington of The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City. “Even with treatment, we only tell people it’s a 50/50 shot.” Traditionally, treatment focuses almost entirely on supportive care, relying on the puppy’s ability to fight the virus naturally. However, in May 2023, the USDA granted a conditional license for the first-ever canine parvovirus treatment, which experts hope will change the outcome for many dogs. What are the Warning Signs? If your puppy does contract parvo, time is of the essence. The sooner you see a veterinarian and start treatment, the better their chance of survival. Watch out for these common warning signs: Vomiting Diarrhea (including bloody diarrhea)Loss of appetite Sudden high feverLethargyDepressionYou should seek veterinary care if you notice signs that something is “off” in a young puppy, especially if it occurs before the puppy has completed all recommended puppy vaccines. Puppies are vulnerable, and a minor illness can turn life-threatening very quickly when left unaddressed. How Can You Keep Your Puppy Safe? The most important step in keeping your puppy safe from canine parvovirus is to ensure that you stick to the recommended vaccination schedule. Puppies should receive vaccines at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, and the vaccine will not be fully effective until all three rounds have been administered. Socialization is crucial for puppies, but you must take extra care before they are fully vaccinated. Avoid high-risk locations like dog parks, kennels, and doggy daycares. If your puppy is being introduced to other dogs, ensure the other dog is fully vaccinated. The best way to socialize a young puppy with other dogs is to do so with dogs you know, like those owned by family and friends. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions or are unsure if a situation will be safe for your puppy. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Can Cats Get Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a well-known threat to dogs and humans, but what about our feline friends? Should we take steps to prevent transmission or protect our cats when they are spending time outdoors? While cats CAN contract Lyme disease, it’s far less common than in dogs. (PheBorrw!)This begs the question: Should cat parents be concerned about this tick-borne illness? How significant is the danger to our furry friends? Let’s dive into the details to understand the risks and preventative measures to keep your cat safe. What is Lyme Disease? Let’s start at the beginning – What is Lyme Disease and why should we be concerned about the risk it poses for our cats? Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi (and, on rare occasions, Borrelia mayonii). This bacterium is transmitted to the animal (or human) through the bite of an infected tick. It then moves through the bloodstream, spreading the infection and leading to potentially serious health complications. Cats are capable of being infected by the bacteria responsible for the disease. Luckily, our feline friends are also highly resistant to it, making the infection highly unlikely to develop and spread. Their grooming habits also help to prevent a problem from occurring. But, if you’re like me, you recognize that highly unlikely doesn’t mean it can’t happen and would rather take steps to prevent a problem just in case. How is Lyme Disease Spread? The bacteria responsible for Lyme Disease is carried by infected black-legged ticks (deer ticks), which are commonly found in many areas of North America. When the tick bites an animal or human, it transmits the bacteria into the bloodstream, but this transmission isn’t instantaneous. As the infection spreads, it starts to impact different areas of the body, including the joints, kidneys, neurological system, and heart. The infected animal or person often feels the effects of this infection for the rest of their lives. In the most severe cases, Lyme Disease is fatal. Removing the tick in the first 24-48 hours reduces the infection risk. Of course, the best way to avoid Lyme Disease is to prevent tick bites from occurring in the first place.

Dog Weddings Are The Latest Trend in China – And It’s Adorable

A lavish tiered cake, a dreamy outdoor venue, white lace, and flowing gowns – it is a sure recipe for a dream wedding. But don’t be surprised to hear that it was arranged for a pair of Golden Retrievers, Bree and Bond. In front of all their friends and family – both human and canine – they “tied the knot” and became newlyweds.This happened in China, where pet weddings are on the rise – a stark contrast to the fast-declining marriage and birth rates of the populace in China. The latest trend of splurging on pet weddings is steadily rising in China as Reuters reports, especially in its urban centers. In fact, spending on dogs has increased by 3.2% in 2023, to a grand total of 279.3 billion yuan ($38.31 billion), a steep rise from just one year before. "People have weddings. Why can't dogs have weddings?" said Rye Ling for Reuters, owner of newlywed retriever Bree. He was emotional after escorting his female pet down the aisle, where she “exchanged vows promising to always share treats and play with her husband Bond”.Bree and Bond’s owners, Rye Ling and Gigi Chen, said to the news outlets that they are in no rush to get married themselves and that they have instead meticulously planned the wedding ceremony of their pets months ahead. They arranged for professional photography, wedding booklets, and a custom-made, 800-yuan (cca $110) wedding cake that even had Bree and Bond toppers!The owner of a Shanghai-based pet bakery, Yang Tao, said that she was initially surprised that someone ordered a lavish wedding cake for their pets."I think there will be more and more dog weddings," she said, adding that it was not the first time she catered for such ceremonies since opening in 2022. "We have already received an order for a few months from now ... and that's for a dog wedding."Rye Ling added that his hope was for the wedding ceremony to give Bree and Bond a “sense of ritual”. He added that he wanted only one child and that he also hopes to welcome puppies soon.

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What Are Symptoms of Heatstroke in Rabbits?

Pet rabbits can be quite vulnerable to extreme summer temperatures. One particular condition that is most threatening and can be fatal to them is heatstroke. Because of their thick fur and limited ability to sweat, rabbits are susceptible to heatstroke, and you will need to know how to spot the symptoms quickly. Here is all you need to know about heatstroke in rabbits and its dangers.What Causes Heatstroke in Rabbits?Unlike us humans, rabbits rely primarily on their ears to regulate their body temperature. When their body temperature rises to dangerous levels, usually above 104 F (40 degrees Celsius), heatstroke can occur. There are several factors that can contribute to it, and the foremost is high temperature. Exposure to temperatures above 80 F (27 degrees Celsius) can be dangerous to rabbits, especially if they are not accustomed to such conditions. Similarly, high humidity levels can make the effects of heat even worse. This is because they hinder the rabbit’s ability to cool itself through evaporation.Poor ventilation in your home can trap heat and increase the risk of heatstroke. Try improving the airflow in the room and lowering the temperature with a classic stand fan. A lack of shade can have a similar effect, especially if the rabbit is kept outdoors. In such cases, you will have to provide ample shade for your furry friend.

How Do I Keep My Reptile from Overheating?

Reptiles are cold-blooded creatures, soaking up the sun to regulate their body temperature. But this doesn’t mean that they love ALL heat. As the temperatures climb outside, your reptile’s enclosure can quickly become dangerously hot, leading to serious health issues.This blog post will be your summer survival guide, packed with tips and tricks to keep your best friend cool and comfortable all summer long.What Happens if a Reptile Gets Too Hot?Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a reptile's body heat rises dangerously high due to outside sources, and they are unable to adjust as necessary to bring it back down to a safe level.As cold-blooded animals, reptiles rely on outside influences for their temperature. If they are too cold, they seek heat. Likewise, if they are too hot, they seek a cooler area. However, if no cool space is available, their body temperature will continue to climb.Overheating can lead to dehydration, tissue/organ damage, or organ failure. Just as heatstroke can be fatal in dogs and cats, overheating can also be life-threatening for our reptile friends.What Temperature is Too Hot for Reptiles? Each reptile species has its own ideal temperature. For example, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Greek tortoise thrives most in temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the green iguana prefers warmer temperatures, between 84 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures reflect the reptile's typical natural environment.You will need to research the specific species to determine what temperatures are safe for your reptile and what are considered too hot. You can do this by looking up that information online, but ensure you only trust a reliable source. Another great way to find out your pet's ideal temperature is to speak with your exotic animal veterinarian. If you don’t already have a vet specializing in exotic animals like reptiles, this is the perfect opportunity to start your search. The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians database is a great place to start!

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Recently Discovered “Salty Licorice” Cat Coat Linked to Gene Mutation

A new kind of kitty just dropped! Well, not exactly “just” – the unusual coat dubbed “salty licorice appeared as early as 2007 in Finland. And now, almost two decades later, a team of researchers from the University of Helsinki in Finland has discovered the true source of this unique color: a rare genetic mutation.Fans of the pattern described it as similar to a tuxedo for cats, but with striking similarity with Finnish salty licorice, hence the name. These cats usually have dark markings on the face, and black dots over the body, with the back portion of the body and the tail often being totally white. At first, not a lot of thought was given to the source of this odd pattern, but now a team of scientists finally got to the core of the matter.In their research, it was discovered that the pattern is connected to the variation of the KIT proto-oncogene gene, which is "associated with an absence of melanocytes in the skin and hair follicles". What is more, the variation commonly causes the white coat in many domestic cats.Upon discovery, the research team named this trait “salmiak”, after the popular Finnish salty licorice treat. It was also concluded that the odd coat pattern appears most often in black cats, although this is not exclusive.During the research process, the team studied DNA samples from five “salty licorice” kitties, and over 180 regular Finnish domestic cats. This was done under the supervision of the Animal Ethics Committee of the State Provincial Office of Southern Finland. Early in the testing, there was little success, as no variants of the KIT gene were revealed. But with hard work and dedication, the team revealed a large deletion of the gene, which could link it to the truly unique cat color. All of the five “salty licorice” cats that were tested had two copies of the gene mutation. In stark contrast, none of the other cats had this, and only three of them had a single copy of the gene mutation. "Our research approach is community science.” Hannes Lohi, a research team member said. “Often, the research ideas also come from cat owners and breeders having found something interesting in their pets."

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