Do Vegan Dogs Live Longer?
Scientists from the University of Guelph have released findings from their study suggesting that dogs fed on a plant-based diet could live up to 18 months longer than dogs fed on meat alternatives.
For the study, scientists collected data from 1400 dog owners across Canada and the USA using a questionnaire. From the findings, they were able to conclude that dogs on a plant-based diet had a mean lifespan of 14.1 years, compared to a mean age of 12.6 for those on a meat-based diet.
The findings have created split opinions, BVA president Justine Shotton spoke out on the matter: “We recognise that there is growing interest in this area – particularly from a sustainability perspective – and that this goes hand in hand with a growing body of scientific research.
“We are really open to exploring how this evidence base could support vegan diets as a more sustainable option and plan to review this in depth in due course.”
Find out more here.
American Veterinarians Recount Ukraine Relief Efforts
Three American veterinarians, Dr. Markee Kuschel, Dr. David Chico, and Dr. Liz Whitney have recounted their Ukraine relief experiences after being deployed to southeastern Poland near the Ukraine border.
The three veterinarians who were deployed were sponsored by the Greater Good Charities and the Internal Fund for Animal Welfare.
Dr. Markee Kuschel, Denver:
“I cannot even begin to imagine how much help Ukraine will need with the animals inside the country. We only saw the animals that made it across the border. I am not sure if we can ship medical supplies, but I am sure donations and volunteering will be needed at every level.”
Dr. David Chico, Albany, New York:
“We were at the border crossing assisting those fleeing as they crossed into Poland. We provided medical triage as necessary… Approximately 25% to 30% of evacuees were accompanied by pets, which included dogs, cats, birds, pocket pets, turtles, and even snails.”
Dr. Liz Whitney, Fort Collins, Colorado:
“The power of the human-animal bond was well illustrated in the care and love the Ukrainian refugees showed for their pets. There was an overwhelming show of gratitude for our services, even though it was a small thing in the scope of what the refugees were facing.”
Read the full story here.
Pandemic Pet Boom Creates Veterinary Investment Opportunities
According to results found by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 23 million (1 in 5) households across America welcomed a new furry friend into the family during the period of the Covid-19 pandemic.
With the increase in pet ownership, there has been a soar in the demand within the veterinary sector creating new investment opportunities.
Whilst the pandemic is not ‘over’ yet and policies are still being updated and reviewed, clinics and investors should be regularly checking guidelines as well as keeping an eye on future treatment trends (such as telemedicine) to ensure they are in compliance with the ever-changing regulations.
Find out more here.
[Editor’s note – What would be interesting would be to know what the other years’ data was so we could compare.]
How Is The AVA Helping Relieve Pressure Off Vets?
In 2021, The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) carried out a workforce survey looking at the current pressure on veterinarians. From the findings, it was revealed that 31% of practices hiring vets had been advertising the position for over 12 months!
So how is the AVA looking to solve the current veterinary shortage and relieve the ongoing pressure on vets?
Back in April, the AVA submitted a proposal for the government to invest $13.6 million, across 5 years, towards a rural placement incentive program that helps graduate vets stay within regional areas to address the staff shortages.
Dr. Orr, president of the AVA, also suggested upskilling vet nurses in order to reduce veterinarian burnout.
“If we use vet nurses more effectively, vets can focus on more specialist and technical work,” Dr. Orr.
Sounds more like a case of potentially robbing Peter (cities) to pay Paul (country) rather than directly alleviate the shortage, but you can read for yourself here.
The World’s Largest Dog Walk
Pet Partners, a non-profit organization in the US, are calling on dog owners to join ‘the world’s largest dog walk’ to raise money for their animal therapy program.
The walk, which is being run in partnership with the Wellness Pet Company, aims to raise $1000,000 and will be held on September 24th.
“Pets are not only good for our emotional well-being but can also be beneficial to our physical health as well, and this walk proves just that” Pet Partner president and CEO, C. Annie Peters.
Find out more here.
How to Prioritize Your Mental Health in a Busy Working Week
Prioritizing your mental health is always important. In a busy working week, sometimes it can be difficult to find time for you, however, taking the time for your mental health is essential to living a fulfilled life, especially during those busy weeks. So how can you prioritize it?
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- Start with morning meditation: when life is busy finding the time to sit back and meditate can seem counterproductive, however, just spending fifteen minutes in the morning can impact your mood and get you ready for the day.
- Journal your thoughts: In the new digital age it can be easy to forget the power of putting pen to paper. However, journaling can be a great way to get your thoughts out and ease the tension in your brain.
- Talk about it: It often goes forgotten but talking through an issue, thought, or feeling can help ease your mind. Talking through your thoughts is a great way to offload as well as talk through solutions on how to improve the situation.
