The pet I’ll never forget: Stevie, the chicken who joined my dog pack
Stevie and her two siblings were the first chickens I ever fostered. I brought them home from a local animal shelter in 2021, not knowing how much one tiny hen…
Study reveals whistling secret of horses’ whinny
Horses whinny to reconnect with herd mates, greet familiar companions and even express excitement at feeding time. But for years, scientists couldn’t fully explain how they produce that unmistakable, two-toned…
‘What’s up with all these monkeys’: Djungelskog the orangutan comforted Punch – but can the Ikea toy help me?
After nearly 24 hours of flight delays, all I wanted was to collapse on my living room floor. Instead, I found myself standing in line at Ikea’s click-and-collect counter, waiting…
This minnow can regenerate its spinal cord after injury. Scientists want to replicate its abilities in humans
In 2024, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine made a breakthrough discovery by studying zebrafish — tiny freshwater minnows with a remarkable ability: they can completely regenerate their spinal…
‘Birdbrain’ benefits: How being an expert birdwatcher may boost cognition
New research shows that seasoned birders — including older adults — had denser tissue in parts of the brain tied to attention and perception. For serious birdwatchers, the pastime is…
I’m sick of outrageous vets fees – it’s time for an ‘NHS for pets’
Over the past two years, veterinary costs — already steep — have climbed even faster than inflation, according to the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Neutering a cat can…
With social fabric unraveling, Americans are asking way too much of their dogs
Nearly half of U.S. households share their homes with a dog, and most owners consider their pets true family members — not just companions. In fact, about half of Americans…
From Prison Program to Purpose: How Dogs Helped Him Rebuild His Life
Joe Denti was a standout participant in Puppies for Parole, a restorative justice program that pairs inmates with rescue dogs needing training. For 34 years, Joe Denti was incarcerated at…
From Hurricane Rescue to Forever Home: A Pilot’s Unexpected Kitten Adoption
affected — including hundreds of shelter animals forced from their homes. As floodwaters rose and conditions worsened, one airline captain stepped forward to help. On Oct. 12, Southwest Airlines pilot…
Why These Birds Collect Bright Flower Petals Will Surprise You
It’s a trait that feels surprisingly human. In Australia’s woodlands and gardens lives a tiny bird with a big reputation: the fairy-wren. Among the most famous is the superb fairy-wren,…