Pet Health News Roundup, April 29, 2025

by Jon Scaccia April 29, 2025

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Angry mob targets wrong house after accused serial cat killer released from jail as vigil turns violent

A vigil in Santa Ana, California, intended to honor felines allegedly killed by suspect Alejandro Oliveros Acosta, escalated into violence when attendees mistakenly targeted an innocent neighbor’s home, resulting in property damage and fear among local families. This incident underscores the importance of maintaining peaceful protests and adhering to legal processes, especially as the community grapples with the distressing allegations of serial cat killings.

Brain tumour survivor’s dog dies from same disease

The heart-wrenching story of Adrian Haynes, who battled for over a decade to receive a brain tumor diagnosis, highlights the critical need for timely medical recognition and diagnosis; the tragic parallel of his pet dog Taz dying from the same condition underscores the bond pets have in providing emotional support during such life-altering journeys. Pet owners are reminded of the importance of monitoring both their own and their pets’ health, advocating for thorough medical investigations when symptoms persist, as early detection can be vital in addressing serious health concerns.

Dock Diving Is a Family Affair With Australian Shepherd ‘Freyja’

This article highlights the transformative impact of dog sports on Sarah Maleski’s life, illustrating how her journey with her Australian Shepherd, Freyja, in dock diving has fostered deep connections, both personally and professionally, while advocating for the joy and benefits these activities can bring to dogs, even those considered past their sporting prime. Pet owners can draw inspiration from Maleski’s commitment to maintaining her dogs’ health and happiness through structured conditioning, emphasizing the importance of enjoying every moment with their pets.

Dog owners should ‘never’ let pets drink from specific bowl, vet nurse alerts

Pet owners are advised to avoid allowing their dogs to drink from communal water bowls due to the risk of disease transmission, including infections from Leptospirosis, kennel cough, and parvovirus, as well as exposure to harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli. Instead, they should carry a personal water supply and a travel bowl to prevent their pets from contracting illnesses from shared sources potentially contaminated by other animals and wildlife.

The 4 Best Bird Baths Our Editors Love

Pet owners interested in attracting birds to their gardens should consider installing bird baths, which provide essential water sources for drinking and bathing, and can also attract species that don’t typically visit seed feeders. To ensure safety and practicality, opt for shallow, sloped basins made of easy-to-clean materials like BPA-free plastic, change the water daily to prevent mosquito breeding, and place the bath where birds can safely watch for predators.

Whistleblower details “disturbing” way Pittsburgh funeral director mistreated pets’ bodies and ashes

Pet owners should be aware of allegations against Patrick Vereb, who is accused of defrauding over 6,500 pet owners by taking money for pet cremations and burials but improperly handling the remains, often providing owners with ashes that were not from their pets. The Pennsylvania attorney general is investigating this case and has identified multiple veterinary clinics that may have been affected, urging pet owners who used Vereb’s services to seek information through a dedicated website. This case highlights the need for stronger regulations around pet funerals and cremations, as there are currently few in Pennsylvania.

Woman hits bear in the face with bag of cookies to save her dog from attack

A Florida woman and her dog survived a bear attack by using a bag of cookies to distract the bear, highlighting the importance for pet owners to carry deterrents like air horns or spray and remain vigilant of their surroundings, especially in areas known for wildlife presence. Pet owners can take this incident as a reminder to familiarize themselves with safe practices recommended by the National Park Service for avoiding and handling bear encounters.