Scientists Tickle animals to discover more about the evolution of laughter

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-15880045

Orangutans ask Santa for Ipads…

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-16354093

On expanding the uses and benefits of therapy pets

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/managing-your-healthcare/treatment/articles/2011/12/27/the-new-face-of-pet-therapy

Scientists poised to cure leukemia in mice

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2011/12/penn_state_university_research.html

Link to article:

http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2011/11/fda-repeats-warning-on-chicken-jerky-for-dogs/

I recommend discontinuing feeding any chicken jerky made in China, and watch dogs carefully for signs of kidney issues, especially increased thirst and urination, vomiting, or any other signs of illness. In general, it’s best to avoid treats from China and stick to those made in the USA.

First off, a few thoughts about pets and the holidays…it can be a busy and stressful time for all of us, including our pets.  As the holiday decorations come out and parties are planned, I’d like to remind everyone of some of the hazards holidays can present for our furry buddies:

Turkey- some turkey treats are eagerly received by both dogs and cats, but remember to lock away trash, as the cooked turkey (and chicken) bones can splinter when eaten.

Chocolate- hide away the candy, cake, and treats.  Chocolate is poisonous to dogs and cats. While a small amount is not likely to be harmful, it’s always best to call the vet if you think your dog or cat has gotten into chocolate.  Baker’s chocolate is especially toxic.

Tinsel- Tinsel is fun to hang and sparkle, and unfortunately it’s also fun for our cats to play with and sometimes swallow. Any long, string-like decorations like ribbon, yarn, and tinsel can get stuck in the intestine and cause severe disease.  Kittens are especially prone to eating these things, so be sure to cat-proof your holiday cheer.

Poinsettas- these are poisonous when eaten, so these should be avoided in homes with pets or at least placed well out of reach.

If you are planning on boarding your pet at a kennel for holiday travels, be sure to check the vaccination records and find out what the kennel requires for boarding, so there is no last minute panic before traveling.  When choosing a kennel, check reviews online, and ask for a walk-through the kennel areas before making a reservation.  And be sure to reserve well in advance, as all the good kennels fill up quickly.  If you are having a pet sitter visit your home, be sure to leave emergency numbers and pictures of your pets for the sitter to use to find them just in case.

Winter months can be hard on senior pets. Arthritis flares up, and the icy walkways can be hazardous for older (and even young) dogs.  Throwing down some sand or gravel can help prevent a lot of injuries.  And consider a nice orthopedic bed for  a holiday gift for your older dog.  Cats also love cozy beds, especially when placed in a sunny window.

And speaking of cats who eat strings: check out some of these x-rays!

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2054734/X-ray-contest-Worlds-wackiest-animal-X-Rays-reveal-things-pets-swallow.html

FDA Now testing pet food for salmonella

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/breaking/chi-fda-starts-testing-pet-food-for-salmonella-20111101,0,5348276.story

The moral code of animals?

http://www.livescience.com/16814-animals-wrong-clues-point.html

Easy exercises for fat cats!

http://www.wdam.com/story/15893612/exercises-for-your-overweight-cat

Study in rats shows potential link between antidepressant use during pregnancy and autism

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/10/24/prenatal-exposure-to-antidepressants-makes-rats-act-autistic/