Dog genome research gets a boost MD 'The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) in Bethesda, Maryland, recently added the dog to its high priority list of organisms to be sequenced once computer capacity becomes available...' Deciphering the dog's genome is expected to help researchers to find cures for human diseases. 'The top ten diseases in purebreds include several that are major health concerns to humans, including cancer, epilepsy, retinal disease, cataracts, and heart disease...' [National Geographic]

DC cold snap hard on pets  DC A cold weather pattern has gripped the Washington DC area and many animals are suffering as a result. Some simple precautions make a big difference in your dog's ability to survive this frigid weather: dogs need to dry out thoroughly when soaked with water or snow; otherwise, hypothermia may result; many a good hunting animal owes its demise to a soaking with cold water. Animals should come indoors during frigid weather. Supervise your dog outdoors: dogs slip, slide and break their legs almost as easily as people do on ice. Rock salt, if not removed from a dog's pads, can cause serious burns. Antifreeze is irresistable to animals because of its sweet taste, but it's also extremely poisonous. If you see an animal left outside with food, water, shelter in freezing weather, you can do something about it. Talk to its owner(s) (If they're reasonable, most people don't want their animals to suffer.) Or call Animal Control or the Humane Society (in the phone book) if you can't locate its caretakers... Related: Keep man's best friend warm and cozy in winter, Precautions to keep pets safe in cold weather (Our dog smells like an old wet mop after a romp in the snow, so he gets a dry bath and a good brushing when he comes inside... so much for that real bath less than two weeks ago.)