She Has 87 Species in Her Home—Here’s Why Millions Are Obsessed
The first thing you notice when stepping into Dakota Kirk’s world isn’t the rustling of scales or the flutter of wings—it’s the quiet intensity of someone who has learned to listen to creatures most people fear or overlook. In her Arizona home, where the line between indoors and outdoors blurs in the best possible way, 111 animals coexist in carefully crafted habitats. But this isn’t just a private sanctuary; it’s become a classroom for millions seeking to become better stewards of the creatures in their care.
Officials Investigate Reports of Illness in Dogs After Walks Near Venice, California
Los Angeles Animal Services announced Monday that it had been alerted to the situation by Los Angeles County Veterinary Public Health (VPH). The affected dogs, ranging from young to senior, were reportedly in good health before exhibiting symptoms such as seizures, weakness, and, in some cases, cardiac arrest. According to officials, the dogs come from different households.
The August Issue of Pet Candy Magazine: Love, Loss, and the Healing Power of Pets
between people and their pets, including a moving cover story on Serena Sabuda de La Fé, a cancer survivor whose dog helped her through her seventh battle with the disease. The issue also explores new research on canine epilepsy and diarrhea, the impact of immigration raids on pets left behind, and the often-overlooked pain of feline osteoarthritis—highlighting Solensia from Zoetis as a groundbreaking treatment option. This issue is a must-read for pet lovers, veterinarians, and anyone interested in animal health, welfare, and emotional healing.
Don’t feed the animals: Researchers warn of risks tied to wildlife interactions
A study led by a scientist at the University of California San Diego offers new warnings on the dangers of human interactions with wildlife.
Assistant Professor Shermin de Silva of the School of Biological Sciences studies endangered Asian elephants and has reported on their shrinking habitats, a downturn that has resulted in territorial conflicts between people and elephants.
Scientist’s cat, again, helps discover new virus
John Lednicky, Ph.D., Pepper’s owner and a University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions virologist, took Pepper’s catch — a dead Everglades short-tailed shrew — into the lab for testing as part of his ongoing work to understand transmission of the mule deerpox virus.
Do dogs judge you?
Many people tend to trust dogs' instincts regarding humans. If dogs gravitate towards you, dog lovers will likely see you as safe and trustworthy, but if dogs are apprehensive around you, some may begin to question your character. Yet how and even if dogs socially evaluate people remains a mystery.
Man’s best friend could be the spotted lanternfly’s worst enemy
A new study led by Virginia Tech found that volunteer dog-handler teams — made up of everyday people and their pets — can effectively detect the elusive egg masses of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that's damaging farms and forests across the eastern and central United States.
Some dog breeds are more likely to get diarrhea
Approximately one in every 12 dogs in the U.K. will be diagnosed with diarrhea each year, with some breeds more susceptible than others, according to a study published June 11, 2025 in the open-access journal PLOS One by Dan O’Neill from the Royal Veterinary College, U.K., and colleagues.
Epilepsy in dogs: New advances for diagnosis and research
Epilepsy and dyskinesia are canine neurological disorders with overlapping clinical symptoms. An international team, led by Professor Andrea Fischer, neurologist at LMU’s Small Animal Clinic, and Professor Hannes Lohi, molecular geneticist at the University of Helsinki, has developed a novel multilingual questionnaire that standardizes the description and classification of seizures in dogs and reliably documents seizures of different kinds.
People who recently adopted pets often struggled to access vet care
People who had children and were working from home were more likely to get a pet during the pandemic. However, these owners faced greater challenges in accessing veterinary care and 20% of all pet owners reported difficulty accessing even basic veterinary services, such as vaccinations or annual exams. Owners who had pets with behavioral issues had an especially difficult time getting care.
How to Cut Your Budget as a Pet Owner (Without Skimping on Vet Care or Quality Food)
The good news? You can trim your pet budget without ever cutting corners on essential things like veterinary care or high-quality food. Here’s how to save smartly — and still keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Osteoarthritis in Cats: The Hidden Pain You Shouldn’t Ignore
Osteoarthritis in cats is a common but often overlooked condition that causes joint pain and mobility issues, especially in older cats. Because cats are skilled at hiding discomfort, early signs such as reduced jumping, grooming changes, and litter box difficulties are easy to miss. Recognizing these subtle changes is essential to maintaining your cat’s quality of life. If you notice signs of arthritis in your cat, speak to your veterinarian for guidance and support.
ICE raids are leaving some L.A. cats and dogs homeless
A recent Los Angeles Times report reveals that ICE raids in Los Angeles are leaving many cats and dogs homeless as families are detained or deported. Overcrowded shelters, increased euthanasia risks, and missed veterinary care appointments highlight the hidden impact on pets. Rescue organizations urge community support through fostering and adoption to help animals caught in this crisis.
Why Is Everyone Buying Their Cat a Concrete Slab? The Viral TikTok Trend Explained
Why are people buying concrete slabs for their cats? Discover the viral TikTok trend, the surprising benefits, and whether your cat might love this quirky new craze.
The Dog Who Saved Her Life: Serena Sabuda de La Fé’s Journey of Survival, Science, and Unbreakable Love
When Serena Sabuda de La Fé was diagnosed with cancer for the seventh time, she could have given in to fear. Instead, she found courage in an unlikely source: the warm, steady gaze of a dog.
New Grant Program Aims to Transform Community Cat Care Across the US
United Spay Alliance has announced the launch of the Summerlee Sustainable Solutions Grant Program, a new national initiative aimed at strengthening and expanding humane community cat programming across the United States. With generous funding from the Summerlee Foundation, the program takes a holistic approach by pairing financial support with expert training, mentorship, and practical tools to help animal welfare organizations build sustainable, high-impact TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs.
Terrified of Thunder? Your Dog Might Be the Hero Science Needs Florida dog parents
If your dog shakes, hides, or downright panics at the first rumble of thunder, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for. Multiple veterinary clinics across Florida are now recruiting for a clinical trial evaluating a promising new oral medication aimed at treating severe thunderstorm aversion in dogs. And here's the best part—participation is completely free
KBroVet-CA1: The Convenient, Conditionally FDA-Approved Solution for Canine Seizure Control
In a new video presented by Pet Candy, Caitlin Palmer—known to many as “The Desk Wench” on TikTok—breaks down what makes KBroVet-CA1 not only effective but also a convenient and accessible option for managing seizures in dogs. Drawing from her real-life experiences as a veterinary receptionist, Caitlin shares insights into the emotional toll epilepsy takes on pet families and how KBroVet-CA1 is changing the conversation in clinics across the country.
Papaya Veterinary Care Opens New Culver City Clinic
Papaya Veterinary Care, a forward-thinking network of primary care and emergency veterinary hospitals, proudly announces the opening of its newest location in Culver City at 11924 Washington Boulevard. The new clinic will be led by Dr. Tony Nitido, Medical Director an experienced Southern California veterinarian.
Some dog breeds are more likely to get diarrhea
Approximately one in every 12 dogs in the U.K. will be diagnosed with diarrhea each year, with some breeds more susceptible than others, according to a study published June 11, 2025 in the open-access journal PLOS One by Dan O’Neill from the Royal Veterinary College, U.K., and colleagues.