How dogs see color is a long-standing topic of research and the results are pretty amazing. While dogs can't appreciate all the colors that humans do, their world is not entirely black and white. In fact, dogs live in a pretty colorful world.
Learn MoreAs most pet owners acknowledge, our dogs recognize our facial expressions. A frown tells a pup something is amiss and a smile makes his tail wag. Now, there is scientific evidence to validate our observations.
Learn MoreHow cats see color is a long-standing topic of research and the results are pretty amazing. While cats can't appreciate all the colors that humans do, their world is not entirely black and white. In fact, cats live in a pretty colorful world.
Learn MoreThe nose is a prominent canine facial feature…long, short, black, pink. Noses vary, but they all have one thing in common. Noses are key to canine survival.
Learn MoreWhen choosing a dog, potential pet owners often consider acquiring a pup with a pedigree vs. a mixed breed. In order to make a more educated choice, it is good to know a little about what makes a pure breed so 'pure' as well as what 'mutts' have to offer. Dogs of pedigree can be wonderful pets or service dogs, so avoiding inherited medical problems is important.
Learn MoreWhiskers are more sensitive than regular hairs because the follicles from which they originate are packed with blood vessels and nerves. In fact, a dog's whiskers are as sensitive as a human's fingertips.
Learn MoreThere's an old adage that a dog's cool, moist nose is a sign of good health. But is that true? And exactly why is that canine nose wet in the first place?
Learn MoreLike us, cats are mammals that are covered with hair. But there are definite differences in the hair that covers our bodies. While we may have whiskers on our faces, they are nothing in comparison to kitty whiskers!
Learn MoreCats are always going to lick but it is sometimes embarrassing when they lick their private parts. Licking after eliminating is normal; however, if your cat licks more frequently or you notice other signs such as discharge, swollen or red penis, vulva, or anus, pustules, discoloration of the skin, or you observe your cat straining to urinate, see your veterinarian for help. Appropriate medical therapy can reduce your cat’s discomfort.
Learn MorePesky allergies can interfere with the fun of owning a dog. There are varying opinions on the matter, but it is generally thought that even though there is no canine breed that is 100% hypoallergenic, there are breeds that are less likely to stimulate allergies in people.
Learn MoreDogs, like people, need mental and physical exercise. They crave playful interaction with their peers. Going to the dog park will allow them to see, hear, and smell new things as they exercise with other dogs. Active dogs, like active, people, are healthier. So, Gather 'round! Take a trip to the park.
Learn MoreCollie eye anomaly is an inherited, developmental disease in dogs. There is a mutation on the gene that determines the development of the eye, and this causes the blood vessels that support the retina to be underdeveloped, affecting vision.
Learn MoreDogs, like people, produce a thick liquid inside their mouths called saliva. While the production of saliva is normal, excessive production is not.
Learn MoreDeoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a long molecule that contains an animal’s entire genetic code. DNA is primarily located within the nucleus of each cell. In the nucleus, enzymes transcribe the DNA bases into a substance called RNA (ribonucleic acid), which serves as a messenger, taking the DNA message out into the cytoplasm of the cell where the RNA is translated into proteins. These proteins are responsible for a number of functions in the cell and throughout the body, primarily by acting as enzymes that regulate various cell reactions. DNA tests allow us to examine an animal’s DNA in order to see whether they carry certain genetic diseases. DNA testing can also be used to determine the ancestry of an animal.
Learn MoreInherited traits or disorders are passed down in an animal's genetic code. This genetic code is found in the animal's DNA. The DNA contains thousands of genes. A gene is a specific DNA sequence that leads to the expression of an inherited characteristic.
Learn MoreDespite the huge variety in coat color, there are only two basic pigments that determine the color of canines: eumelanin (black) and phaeomelanin (red). All different variations in color are created by these two pigments, which are both forms of melanin.
Learn MoreEach time that DNA is replicated, errors can be made. One base may be switched for another base, for example an A switched with a C. In more severe situations, an entire section of the genetic code can be deleted or moved to a different location. Depending on where in the DNA this mutation occurs, the effects of these mutations may vary from nonexistent to severe.
Learn MoreOwnerless cats may look the same, but there is a difference between stray and feral cats. A feral cat is born and lives in the wild with little or no human contact. A stray cat is a domestic cat that has been abandoned or has strayed from home and become lost. A stray cat may be presently homeless but was once a pet that lived with humans.
Learn MoreGetting a dog is a long-term commitment. Before choosing a pet, consider initial and recurring costs, home environment, size, temperament, and physical characteristics of the dog. Consider training, exercising, and grooming needs, along with your lifestyle.
Learn MoreWith over 70 pure breeds and countless combinations of mixed breeds, there are lots of cats to choose from. That's a good thing, because cats are the #1 pet in the United States. Of course, all cats consider themselves number one!
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