New Study Reveals Climate Change May Affect Immune Performance

More Americans are Buying Pet Supplements, According to Market Growth

Due to increased pet sales and health awareness, the pet supplement industry is projected to grow immensely by 2031, with a market value of $4.68 billion. However, some factors are working against the market, including the lack of standardization, availability, and accessibility of the goods. Nevertheless, new innovations in pet products and research will likely contribute to market growth in the future. Find out more here.

Horrific Animal Abuse Uncovered on Finland Fur Farms

Finland has exported nearly $40 million in fur to the United States within the last 10 years, making it a primary supplier to the U.S. However, a new investigation by the Humane Society International uncovered horrific abuse on fur farms. Evidence showed foxes with open wounds and deformed appendages.

Perhaps most frightening were the humongous foxes, bred by inhumane and irresponsible breeders to immense sizes. These foxes showed signs of intense pain and severe mental distress. Additionally, the animals were kept in small, bare cages and rarely allowed to exercise. Conservationists and animal rights activists have already seen a decrease in the fur trade and hope to end the cruel practice.

New Study Finds Increased Temperatures Affect Immune Performance

For years, scientists have contended that mammals regulate their body temperature, so increased temperatures have little effect on them. However, a new study conducted in Costa Rica by the University of Michigan as part of the Capuchinos de Taboga Research Project found that increased temperatures harmed the immune systems of capuchin monkeys.

The study discovered decreased immune system function in capuchin monkeys after two weeks at 86ºF. Additionally, scientists found that the impacts of increased temperatures were more severe for juveniles. Researchers claimed the results and the relationship between temperature and the monkeys’ immune systems were unexpected and that the results could tell us more about the effects of climate change. The long-term effects of increased temperatures on the immune system are unknown; find out more about the study here.