Research on dogs in the United Kingdom is helping identify breeds that live longest and those that live short lives. Published in the journal Scientific Reports, the average life expectancy across all dogs showed male dogs was 11.1 years, females were about four months longer. Neutered dogs had a life expectancy of close to 12 years for females and 11.5 years for males. Life … [Read more...]
Dirty pet food bowls common, full of pathogens
Researchers from North Carolina State University surveyed dog owners about their animal feeding habits and swabbed pets' food dishes for bacteria. The findings suggest a need to educate pet owners about pet food handling and hygiene to minimize bacterial contamination of dishes, especially for high-risk populations. Source: HealthDay, April 6, 2022. Link. Also see: … [Read more...]
Feline thyroid problems linked to household chemicals
New research suggests that chemicals found in upholstery and carpeting could harm feline thyroids. The chemicals are called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). They were in common use until about 2000 in furniture, floor coverings and clothing because of their ability to repel water and oil. It is imperative to better understand how these persistent chemicals might … [Read more...]
How clean is that stethoscope?
A new study in the journal Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology underscores the importance of adhering to rigorous infection control procedures beyond handwashing. The study was conducted in a human hospital intensive care unit. Itcompared single-use stethoscopes to traditional reusable stethoscopes carried by medical personnel. All stethoscopes were significantly … [Read more...]
Tick, tick, tick-tick, TICK! . . . continued
Americans have unwelcome eight-legged visitors from the East, and they're here to stay. The Asian longhorned tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis, is a indigenous to Asia. This tick species has already turned up in Arkansas, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia, where it's been found on domestic animals and wildlife, … [Read more...]
Bacteria from unneutered dogs pose risk to pregnant women
Brucella canis is carried by dogs that have not been neutered, according to a recent study published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases. The bacteria produce flu symptoms in humans and could potentially jeopardize a pregnancy. Though brucellosis infection is most commonly spread by livestock like sheep, cattle, goats and pigs, dogs carry this strain of the bacterium, … [Read more...]
Puppy poop infects 55 with Campylobacter bacteria
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have tracked Campylobacter infections in humans. The agency says infections that were linked to puppies from Petland have been reported between September 2016 and October 2017 in Florida, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Source: HealthDay, October … [Read more...]