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Lori begins the show with a discussion of the myriad problems with testing of consumer products like cosmetics on animals. Despite rapid advances in technology that is capable of replacing animal testing, antiquated and cruel methods still are often employed in the US and Canada. Notably, the FDA does not require animal testing and 40 other countries no longer test on animals for cosmetic development and safety assurances.
Lori discusses the primary methods used including applying irritants to the skin and eyes of animals and force feeding chemicals to animals. The primary victims are cats, dogs, rabbits and mice. The results are often unreliable and do not always ensure human safety.
Consumers looking for products that are cruelty-free may face incomplete or deceptive information if they rely on package labels because the components of a final product may have been tested on animals but not disclosed on the label. It is best to use a resource such as the leaping bunny from Cruelty Free International. More and more product brands are dropping animal testing in large part due to consumer behavior choices.
Then, Lori shares hot news items from around the world including a new animal idiom, “one horse pony” was coined by Mr. Biden, python roundups in the Everglades, public pressure causes more sport teams to consider adopting animal mascots, bystander resuscitates baby elephant after motorcycle crash, and more.
Lori then speaks with Veterinarian Stephen Hanson, who specializes in Neurology at the Veterinary Neurology Center in Southern California. Their topic is important for many families with older dogs, dementia, or canine cognitive dysfunction.
We continue with our first attempt at grooming our long hair cat, Elton. The result was not perfect, but overall a positive experience. And then, Lori discusses the latest on cat vocalizations, and what their meows mean. And to wrap up, test your cat idiom knowledge with Peter.
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