Animal Radio Episode 794

Published: Feb. 20, 2015, 7:10 p.m.

Animal Radio Veterinary Correspondent Dr. Marty BeckerBetter Living Through Pheromones
Animal Radio® Veterinary Correspondent Dr. Marty Becker is back with the scoop on pheromones. Can the synthetically produced smell be helpful in calming cats and dogs, or is it a waste of money?

Pedigree vs. Mutt
It's long been thought that mutts are much healthier, both mentally and physically, than those pure bred for pedigree. While there may be some truth to this, it is not always the case. Author Michael Brandow describes how the quest for status has harmed man's best friend.

Another Pet Food MergerAnother Pet Food Merger
JM Smucker, the company behind Smucker's Jam, has purchased Big Hearts Pet Brands, which includes Meow-Mix, Milk-Bone, Pup-Peroni, Kibbles 'n Bits and Natural Balance. Recent consolidations mean that only a handful of companies make your pet's food. Perhaps the food will also be sourced and made in the same factories. This may not bode well for the consumer or your pets.

Therapy DucksTherapy Ducks?
Former Ohio National Guardsman Darin Welker uses ducks to treat his PTSD. The town council says he hasn't presented enough evidence that the ducks serve a medical need and that he would face imminent harm without them.

Man Finds Dog 18 Months Later
Richard Brower's German Shepherd, Dozer, was stolen 18 months ago. He looked everywhere. After a year-a-half, Richard decided to share his home with a new dog. He did an online search for 'German Shepherds for sale,' which led him to the local animal rescue and right there was Dozer on the front page.

Bart the Zombie CatZombie Cat in Custody Battle
Last week, we had the story of Bart the cat that was hit by a car and buried but was actually still alive. Bart dug his way out and made it to his neighbors yard. Bart is now officially, and fondly known, as the Zombie Cat. If you think his story couldn't get stranger, think again.

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