Welcome to the Rover Roundup, your one-stop tour of all the weird, wonderful, must-read pet news that crossed our social feeds and made the headlines recently. What’s better than all this heartwarming pet-centric content in one handy place? We can think of literally nothing.
See how well you followed pets in the news as we review last month’s biggest blips about pets, people, and how we live together today.
Photo Credit: CatCon Worldwide
1. CatCon 2022 was a meow-velous success
Cat lovers from all walks of life found their people in Pasadena, California this past October 1st and 2nd when the annual CatCon took place.
“Dog people have meetups and dog parks, but cat people had nothing—only breeder shows,” said television producer and casting director, Susan Michals, who started CatCon in 2015.
“I wanted to create something for this underserved audience. Cat people don’t always fit that ‘crazy cat lady’ stereotype. Our audience is young, savvy, and ready to pounce on an opportunity to showcase their cat-loving selves without judgment.”
Celebrity appearances, speakers, retail vendors, and even art exhibits—this year included one paying homage to actor Nicolas Cage’s love for cats—make CatCon a fun experience for attendees. The kitty-themed conference also hosts on-site cat adoptions. By the end of this year’s CatCon, 136 cats and kittens found their furever homes.
“This is a place to learn, shop, and simply have fun with like-minded animal lovers,” Michals said, who noted that 30% of attendees are dog parents as well. “CatCon is, first and foremost, rooted in community.”
Follow CatCon’s Instagram to stay up-to-date with the latest news.
Photo Credit: CatCon Worldwide
2. Your Dog’s Nose Knows
A recent study revealed dogs have the ability to differentiate between sweat glands from a stressed human and sweat glands from a calm human. Why does this matter? Well, your canine might have more evolved instincts—and know more about you—than you think. And, there are implications for how science might learn from this, including how dogs are used in scent detection work.
3. Insta-Famous Pug Stars In Children’s Book
Doug the Pug launched his new children’s book, Doug the Pug and the Kindness Crew (complete with a press tour) in October. The story promotes spreading love and kindness to everyone you meet. Go, Doug!
4. A PSL for Cats (Finally)
Technically, there is no spice (and no caffeine) in this pet-friendly recipe, but it’s still the perfect autumnal treat. This Pumpkin No-Spice Latte for Cats blends pumpkin puree, dehydrated goat milk, and ice cubes for a seasonal treat you can offer your kitty.
5. This Bull Is a One-Ton Puppy
Spud, a 1,800-pound Hereford bull living in Illinois loves to chase and play with his favorite squishy toy ball. Despite his size, he’s all puppy vibes. Is there anything more wholesome?
6. TikTok vet goes viral sharing dog breeds he wouldn’t own
A UK-based veterinarian went viral when he discussed the five dog breeds he personally wouldn’t own. Why? Because of genetic or breeding issues that impair the breed’s quality of life. Can you guess the five breeds he mentioned?
@ben.the.vet 5 dog breeds I would/could never own as a veterinary surgeon #dogsoftiktok #learnontiktok #veterinary #benthevet
7. Your Dog Will Go Crazy for This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookie
Break out the food processor and make this easy, seasonal dog cookie recipe that requires oat flour, pumpkin puree, and peanut butter. It’s your dog’s new obsession.
8. All Aboard the Good Boy Express!
This cool canine has his very own “double-decker bus” to make traveling up and down the stairs with arthritis a walk in the park (or a ride on the bus…)
This dog with arthritis takes a bus to get down the stairs! 😁 from aww
9. Guinea Pigs, Lizards, and Snakes, Oh My!
While many households adopted small pets during the pandemic, The New York Times reports that “small animal surrenders spiked by more than 50 percent nationwide in the first six months of 2022”, leaving reptiles, birds, guinea pigs, and other small pets in need of a home. Read about the phenomenon here.
10. A Cat That’s Bigger Than Your Dog?
Meet Fenrir, a Savannah cat named the world’s tallest domestic cat in the Guinness World Records. Cats of this breed typically measure between 14 and 17 inches, whereas Fenrir stands above 18 inches when on his hind legs!
11. Pet Your Dog ASAP
A recent study provided further evidence that dogs are beneficial to mankind’s mental health. Experts say that petting, cuddling, and even watching dogs can boost neurons in the part of the brain that regulates emotion.
12. He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not
What do our weird and wonderful cats really think of us? Experts say there are four signature signs your cat loves you: rubbing against you with their scent glands, keeping their tail upright, blinking, and, of course, allowing you to be in their personal space.
13. October = National Pit Bull Awareness Month
The annual initiative strives to educate people about this misunderstood breed. While Pit Bulls are often overlooked in shelters due to negative stereotypes, there are some pretty amazing stories about these dogs, like Apollo, a friendly and energetic canine cop living in Seattle!
Here are some other Pit Bull stories you might like:
- How One Pit Bull Inspired a ‘Ripple Effect’ of Pet Adoptions in Philadelphia
- Breathtaking Flower Crown Photos Help Adoptable Pit Bulls Find Homes
- Pit Bull Shotgun Willie Scores Life-Changing Surgery Thanks to Pop’s Snapshots
14. The U.K. Has One Very Important Cabinet Member
…And he catches mice. Larry, a 15-year-old cat charged with keeping a government facility free of rodents, has now served in office longer than four prime ministers!
15. Senior Dog Finally Finds His Family
At 19 years old, Stuart has found his family. This Illinois-based dog spent 14 years in an animal shelter and now will spend the rest of his days enjoying a home and a whole lot of love. (PSA: November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month!)
@nataliejosnyder
