Top 5 Pet News Stories of 2010

by Dr. Chris

January 1, 2011 Another year has past, and it is always fun to look back and see what the top pet news stories were of 2010. Here is what I believe to be the top 5 stories. If you don't agree with me, please use the comment section to let me know.

1. Majority of Veterinarians are now Females

The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that now, over half of its members are now female. This is the first time it has ever happened. And the percentage of women veterinarians will only increase further. This is because most veterinary school classes are now well over 70 % women, with some schools having almost a 90% female class. These stats easily makes this one of the top pet news stories of the year.

2. Wars Against Dog Breeding

The restrictions against breeding dogs in the United States seems to get stricter and stricter every year. This has lead to a HUGE increase in the importing of dogs bred in other countries, many of them imported illegally. This is dangerous because many dogs that come from overseas carry infectious diseases into the U.S.

Also dogs bred in other countries may not receive the same welfare rights as dogs here. As long as dog breeding laws get tougher here, more illegal importation of dogs will continue.

Related story: Dog Wars: Bans on Dog Breeding Lead to Spike in Illegal Imports.

3. Dog Heartworm Resistance

Many owners who have their dog on heartworm preventatives like Heartgard are finding out that their dogs are not protected and in some cases infected with heartworms. This is the case for many dog owners in the Gulf Coast region.

This surprise dog heartworm resistance has veterinarians and companies who produce heartworm preventatives very worried which is why this is one of the top pet news stories of the year.

4. Lack of Food Animal Veterinarians

If you don't live in a rural area, you may not be aware of the lack of veterinary care available. Especially if you have larger animals to care for like horses and cattle. It is harder to recruit veterinarians to work in rural areas. this is because salaries are much higher in metropolitan areas.

The USDA is trying to help by offering money to reduce student loans for veterinarians willing to work in undeserved areas.

5. Increase Antibiotic Usage Regulations

With concern over antibiotic resistant bacteria growing every year, the FDA wants to severely limit its use in Food Animals. Low levels of antibiotics are often given to cattle to help them grow faster. Also antibiotics can be easily obtained at farm stores and given by farmers when ever they see fit.

The FDA hopes decreased use of non-essential antibiotics will slow the rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria.
 
These are the top pet news stories of the year. If you think another story should be in the top 5, please use the comment section below to let me know.

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