The Ancient Cancer That Dogs Have Been Passing Down for Thousands of Years: Inside the Mysterious World of Canine TVT
Transmissible Venereal Tumor (TVT) in dogs is not only a fascinating medical anomaly but also a living relic from thousands of years ago. This tumor is unique because it is a contagious cancer, capable of being transmitted directly from one dog to another through direct contact. Unlike most cancers, which arise within the cells of the host organism, TVT cells are genetically distinct from the host’s cells. They are not a random mutation but a clone of an ancient cancer cell that has been passed down through generations of dogs worldwide. Here’s how TVT defies conventional oncology and what makes it a window into evolutionary biology.
How AI is Learning to Read Pain on Goat Faces—and What it Means for Animal and Human Healthcar
in goats by analyzing facial expressions. This pioneering approach, led by Dr. Ludovica Chiavaccini, aims to create a more objective and reliable pain scale for animals and potentially humans. As pain management becomes increasingly vital in veterinary and farming practices, AI-driven pain assessment could transform care for non-verbal patients across species.
The Science of Emotional Bonding Between Pets and Owners
A recent study from the University of Jyväskylä found that dogs and their owners share synchronized heart rate variability (HRV), reflecting a deep emotional connection. The study revealed that owners and dogs experience similar emotional states, with HRV adapting during resting and activity periods. Owner temperament also impacts dog HRV, indicating that dog-owner relationships benefit both parties. These findings, involving breeds bred for cooperation, offer new insights into how emotional bonding with pets can enhance human wellbeing.
Macaws Caught Playing Favorites: How Scientists Are Rescuing Neglected Chicks
Researchers at Texas A&M University have revealed that scarlet macaw parents often neglect younger chicks, even when food is plentiful, favoring the older siblings instead. By creating a foster program, scientists have found a way to save these neglected chicks, potentially aiding the conservation of endangered parrot species. This approach provides a novel solution to natural brood reduction and offers new insights into macaw parenting behaviors.
How This Violinist Went from Performing with Beyoncé to Pursuing Her Dream as a Veterinarian
Amanda Lo McGregor, a professional violinist turned veterinary student, is pursuing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at Western University with a focus on exotic animal care, wildlife conservation, and practice ownership. A New York native now in Los Angeles, Amanda has performed alongside stars like Beyoncé and Ed Sheeran. She balances her studies with family life and a passion for music, inspired by her mentor’s advice to master the basics and always seek joy. This article explores Amanda’s journey from concert stages to veterinary clinics and her vision for the future.