More Than 50 New Animal Species Discovered in Southeast Asia

Owner Killed by 3 Dogs in San Diego

Three dogs attacked their owner at Mesa Viking Park in San Diego last Friday, additionally injuring a bystander trying to help. The bystander is recovering at a nearby hospital, but the owner, Pedro Luis Ortega, passed away after the attack. The San Diego Humane Society euthanized the dogs on Sunday and is testing the remains for traces of rabies. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the attack and remain unsure of what factors may have influenced the dogs’ violent behaviors.  

The three dogs were American XL bullies, a breed that has had issues with violence and aggression in the past. In January 2024, the UK banned American XL bullies after a similar series of fatal attacks. Owners and breeders have debated the ethics of breeding and caring for these potentially dangerous animals. American XL bullies can make superb pets provided the correct environment and care. However, owning this breed requires consistent attention and responsibility. Find out more about American XL bullies and other attacks here.

More Than 50 New Animal Species Discovered in Southeast Asia

A recent report from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) listed 234 new species from the Greater Mekong region of Southeast Asia. Some of the animals discovered include the lightweight shrew mole, weighing less than 8 grams, and the ‘vampire’ hedgehog, named for its long fangs. Most new species discoveries were plants, such as the leafless orchid. The remaining new species, however, comprised 26 reptiles, 17 amphibians, 15 unique fish species, and three new mammals.

Unfortunately, the new species are threatened by various environmental factors, such as rising sea levels and habitat loss. If these problems worsen, many species could be classified as endangered and potentially suffer from extinction. However, the greatest threat to Greater Mekong is deforestation. The region’s forest cover has decreased by over 20% in the last half-century. Find out more about newly discovered species here.

First Book on Stem Cell Therapy for Animals Released, Could Help Pets Live Longer

Stem cell therapy techniques could prolong the lifespans of dogs, horses, cats, and other animals, according to a new publication by Professor Dr. Mike Chan, STEM CELLS, PEPTIDES & IMMUNOTHERAPY: Handbook on Regenerative Medicine for Animals. The stem cell therapies outlined in the book claim to regenerate muscle tissue and improve animal organ function.

The research also argues that it can decrease the rate of aging by mitigating the depletion of stem cells in the body. Dr. Chan mentions how different stem cell therapies apply to specific animals’ needs, addressing autoimmune diseases and heart disease alongside maintaining bodily function. Find out more about the book here.