Animals have played a significant role in military campaigns for thousands of years. Horses and dogs, in particular, have marched across continents with their masters and handlers as support and, at times, as fellow warriors. Ancient authors such as Pliny the Elder have written about a number of breeds used by the Roman Army during the empire’s expansion and the various roles the animals played. Among the favorites for sheer strength and size were the Cane Corso and the Molossian, a likely … [Read more...] about Arizona Military Dog Trainer Continues Tradition
Rebecca West
Injured Vet, Service Dog Become Dynamic Duo
You’ve likely seen them around Tucson. Whizzing by in traffic, saddling up in a parking lot or maybe right next to you at a stoplight. To some extent, the dynamic duo with the distinctive bullet-shaped sidecar has actually become what you might call local celebrities for the striking path they cut about town. Their names are Mike and Scott, and they ride a 2018 Road Glide with a custom sidecar. It’s a one-of-a-kind creation with a lot of gawker appeal. In fact, the twosome can’t go anywhere … [Read more...] about Injured Vet, Service Dog Become Dynamic Duo
Study Shows Stress Levels Decrease in Shelter Dogs When Fostered
Researchers are studying ways to reduce stress in shelter dogs. They are finding that canine foster programs and activities like weekend or holiday sleepovers that remove animals from noisy shelters and place them in home environments have a significant impact on their cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone involved in the stress response system in both humans and animals. In order to gather this type of evidence, companion animal scientist Lisa Gunter, Ph.D., and Maddie’s Fund Research … [Read more...] about Study Shows Stress Levels Decrease in Shelter Dogs When Fostered
Valley Fever Vaccine Expected to be Coming Soon
Coughing, fever, weight loss, lack of appetite – these worrisome symptoms are all cause for alarm when exhibited by loved ones, including family pets. If you recognize these clinical signs of illness in your dog or cat, it could be an indicator of Valley Fever, a serious though relatively rare medical condition prevalent in the Western and Southwestern portions of the United States. Valley Fever is a systemic fungal disease caused by inhaling Coccidioides spores. The Coccidioides fungus is found … [Read more...] about Valley Fever Vaccine Expected to be Coming Soon
Arizona Teen Rescues Animals in Crisis
Watching images of a big storm rage through the South can leave a lasting impression. Some, like Dylan Capshaw, are moved to action. After seeing the damage and flooding in the wake of 2017’s Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana, the Scottsdale fifth grader told his parents he wanted to buy a plane ticket to Houston to personally deliver money to help animal rescue efforts. With supportive parents, David and Amy Capshaw, he started the Dylan Capshaw Wildlife Foundation at age 11 to save … [Read more...] about Arizona Teen Rescues Animals in Crisis
Kids and Pets: Comforting One Another
The bond between canines and humans is well established. Dogs can be our best buds, faithful companions and loyal protectors. They can bring us joy, make us laugh and ease our sorrows. They may even be responsible for the increased longevity of their upright biped companions, as they are recognized for providing a whole host of mental and physical health benefits. As such, they are also often soothing friends for young children, making their worlds brighter. Road to Recovery Recently, a … [Read more...] about Kids and Pets: Comforting One Another
