Animals September 7, 2019: Risks of blue-green algae to dogs. Exposing and closing cockfighting operations.

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Risks of blue-green algae to dogs

This season, there have been reports of dogs becoming sick and dying after exposure to ponds harboring the so-called blue-green algae. Especially frightening is that even clear ponds can sometimes have the blue-green algae growing in them and that exposure can cause rapidly progressive illness and sometimes death.  Veterinarian Robert Reed joins Peter to explain what exactly blue green algae is, why it is such a hazard to dogs and what to do if a dog may be exposed.

Blue-green algae contain deadly bacteria called cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms found in freshwater lakes, streams, ponds, and brackish (salty) water ecosystems.

The algae give the water a blue-green or “pea soup” appearance. It looks almost as if someone spilled blue or green paint on the surface of the water. These floating blooms can form thick, dense mats that collect near the shore, which is where animals and people come in contact with them.

Exposing and closing cockfighting operations

Our next guest is Stu Chaifetz, who is an investigator with SHARK (Showing Animals Respect and Kindness). Even though cockfighting is illegal in all 50 US states, this cruel and barbaric activity still occurs. Stu announces SHARK’s new campaign to seek out, investigate and close down cockfighting operations.

They are now announcing a new nationwide campaign called Crush Cockfighting, that will expose these illegal animal fights like never before, and we’ll work hard to have those involved held accountable under the law.

Using simulators to teach law enforcement to humanely interact with dogs

Peter then welcomes John Thompson, Deputy executive Director and COO at National Sheriff’s Association. Thompson has been leading the effort to develop and make available realistic simulators to train law enforcement personnel to manage encounters with dogs, instead of shooting them. Thompson, a passionate dog lover, has teamed up with VirTra and many other interested parties in the Law Enforcement Dog Encounters Training (LEDET) program, which is being made available to departments throughout the US.

Platypus and Bees

We conclude with a feature about the remarkable platypus, and challenging little quiz about bees.