Posted By: Larry Holmes | January 31, 2010 at 12:41 pm
(NECN) – Well dogs score again.
Scientific research keeps showing us how good dogs are for us and the latest is nothing short of remarkable, as the lead scientist says herself.
A new study from the University of Missouri compares older people in a walking program:
Part of the group chose humans as exercise partners, and part chose to walk dogs from a local shelter.
and guess what?
The people walking dogs were much more consistent about getting out there and showed a much bigger improvement in fitness.
The walking speed among dog walkers?
It went up by 28 % and many increased their balance and strength so much they stopped using walkers and canes.
The human-companion group only increased speed by 4%, and they often made excuses not to go out at all.
As researchers crunch the numbers further, they suspect they’ll document improvement in areas like depression and anxiety too.
Joining Vicki Croke to talk about why dogs are superior exercise partners and how we can best take advantage of that are Dr. Martha Smith, head vet at the Animal Rescue League of Boston.
Dr Martha Smith on Secret Life of Animals
Posted By: Larry Holmes | January 31, 2010 at 12:38 pm
(NECN) – It’s a powerful snake, but also a popular pet.
The Boa Constrictor can grow to almost 13 feet in length and can weigh up to 60 pounds.
Sure there are smaller variations, but most people would agree, the boa is big and so is the responsibility that comes with owning and taking care of one.
Joining Vicki Croke to share more is Bunny Watson.
Bunny is the live animal curator at the Museum of Science in Boston.
Taking care of Boa Constrictor on Secret Life of Animals
Posted By: Larry Holmes | January 24, 2010 at 1:30 pm
(NECN) -Temple Grandin’s latest book “Animals Make us Human” is now out in paperback.
Whether or not you read her best selling blockbuster “Animals in Translation,” I think you’ll want to check this one out.
Grandin is the incredibly accomplished woman with autism who designs equipment in order to make life –and death –better for farm animals.
But she’s got a lot to say about all animals and from a very unique perspective.
Vicki interviewed her a while back at the Brookline Booksmith and found her as brilliant, down-to-earth, and full of surprises as the book itself.
You can also watch a new HBO movie about her starring Clare Danes, which airs next month.
Temple Grandin Interview on NECN.com
Posted By: Larry Holmes | January 24, 2010 at 1:10 pm
(NECN) – If you’ve ever roamed the aisles of the pet store and found yourself scratching your head in confusion, then today’s pet gear is just for you!
We’re bringing you the five most popular items at especially for pets stores.
Maria Mazokopos joins Vicki Croke now with the shopping list.
Pet Gear: Most popular items in pet stores
Posted By: Larry Holmes | January 24, 2010 at 12:40 pm
(NECN) – Our resident trainer Scott Dunmore is in the house and answering more of your questions.
One thing we’ve noticed, there are lots of you struggling with house-training your dogs.
It’s the one problem we get the most emails about.
But I’m not sure if that’s because it’s so common or if this unlike other offenses is something we’re not so likely to put up with.
House training your dogs with Scott Dunmore
Posted By: Larry Holmes | January 24, 2010 at 12:39 pm
(NECN) – By now, we’ve heard the countless tales of human loss and suffering and seen the first signs of relief in Haiti.
But as nations around the globe step in to help with the humanitarian crisis, there is also an effort underway to save animals in Haiti.
Led by an organization right in our own backyard.
The International Fund for Animal Welfare, based in Yarmouthport Massachusett is setting up mobile clinics to bring aid to an estimated five million head of livestock and countless pets.
Joining Vicki Croke is AJ Cady to talk more about IFAW’s impact in Haiti.
IFAW saving animals in Haiti
Posted By: admin | November 16, 2009 at 12:49 pm
He’s learned to howl and growl and live off of a diet of boiled liver.
Those are just a few of the unorthodox ways Sean Ellis – aka “The Wolfman” – has gotten closer to the wolf pack he lives with in southern England.
But while some biologists question his work, animal lovers can learn more about Ellis’ motives in his new book “The Man Who Lives with Wolves.”
Posted By: Larry Holmes | November 16, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Grooming is about a lot more than just looking good. Keeping our pets clean can also keep them healthy and happy.
So how do you get your dog comfortable with the process? The answer may be with the person wearing that grooming apron.
Susan Gregory of the Massachusetts Academy of Canine Cosmetology talks to Vicki about Grooming: 101.
Posted By: admin | October 26, 2009 at 10:34 am
From head to tail, these tiny turtles are only about the size of a quarter after hatching.
But in Massachusetts, a “headstarting” program is once again underway, designed to give this endangered species a head start on life.
Bunny Watson of the Museum of Science in Boston explains how it works.
Posted By: admin | October 19, 2009 at 11:46 am
It’s amazing what you’ll find in your own backyard. For one renowned naturalist, it was the inspiration for a new book on “The Hidden Life of Deer.”
Learn more about their family relationships, passions and struggles in this interview with bestselling author Elizabeth Marshall Thomas.
