Entries by Bronwyn Hayes

World Kindness Day: Mzansi Asked to Show Compassion for All Animals

November 13, 2025 in , , , /by

World Kindness Day: Mzansi Asked to Show Compassion for All Animals FOUR PAWS shares how citizens can turn kindness into action by protecting pets, wildlife and farm animals through everyday choices. As the world celebrates World Kindness Day 2025 on 13 November, FOUR PAWS is encouraging communities across the country to extend their compassion to animals in our homes, used for agriculture, and those that should be in the wild. As a nation rich in biodiversity, but facing serious animal welfare challenges, this day is a powerful opportunity to reflect on how kindness can shape a more humane South Africa. […]

FOUR PAWS on Early Avian Influenza Surge

November 19, 2025 in , , , , /by

FOUR PAWS on Early Avian Influenza Surge Mass killings are mere symptom control This year’s avian influenza season started unusually early and at an alarming rate, with outbreaks reported in the United States, Japan, and several European countries, where unprecedented levels for this time of the year have been observed. The highly pathogenic H5N1 strain is also suspected to have reached Australia for the first time, following the discovery of hundreds of dead seal pups on sub-Antarctic Heard Island. The rapid spread has sparked fears of a new avian influenza crisis. Since the avian influenza season began in October, the […]

Paving the Way for Major Animal Welfare Reform in Japan

November 18, 2025 in , , , , , /by

Paving the Way for Major Animal Welfare Reform in Japan Wild Welfare recently visited Japan to drive forward a plan to improve the lives of countless captive wild animals across the country. The visit included a programme of high-level engagements with national NGOs, government representatives, and prominent academics. The core focus of the engagement was to promote a compassionate and scientifically informed approach to human-wildlife interactions, strengthening protections for kept exotic species in Japan’s many zoos, aquariums and exotic animal cafes. In late September, Wild Welfare’s Executive Director, Simon Marsh, and Animal Welfare Consultant, Georgina Groves, travelled to Tokyo to […]

How Dogs Are Used In Testing?

November 17, 2025 in , , , /by

How Dogs Are Used In Testing? Discover how and why tens of thousands of dogs are used in U.S. laboratories each year. Dogs in Research & Testing – FAQ Over 40,000 dogs are used in experiments annually in the U.S., enduring painful procedures and often resulting in euthanasia. Learn what happens and how you can help end this injustice. How many dogs are used in experiments every year? Over the last three years, 44,000 dogs were used in experiments each year on average in the United States. In addition, tens of thousands of puppies destined for labs are born at […]

Treat your animals for ticks! Please!

November 16, 2025 in , , , , /by

Treat your animals for ticks! Please! Summer is almost here for pets and their owners that means: tick season. Ticks are horrible little parasites that can transmit several very serious diseases to dogs and cats, and even humans. Ticks are rife in long grass or wild areas, and so a particular concern for pet owners who walk their dogs on the mountain, in parks and open areas, or for dogs that roam in bushy areas around their homes. TEARS Animal Rescue recently saved a little dog that almost died from being bitten by ticks. If you can afford it, the […]

What Is One Health?

November 15, 2025 in , , , , /by

What Is One Health? FOUR PAWS shares why the health of humans, animals, and the environment are interconnected and why it should matter to us. In South Africa, where people live closely with animals and nature whether in rural villages, townships, or urban centres, the health of one affects the health of all. That’s the heart of the One Health approach: recognising that the well-being of humans, animals, and the environment are deeply intertwined.  Understanding One Health One Health is a global concept that encourages collaboration between doctors, veterinarians, environmental scientists, and communities. It’s about working together to prevent disease, […]

Fireworks and Pet Anxiety: A Community Call to Action

November 5, 2025 in , , , , , /by

Fireworks and Pet Anxiety: A Community Call to Action FOUR PAWS South Africa appeals to communities to prioritise animal safety during informal Guy Fawkes activities As 5 November approaches, FOUR PAWS is urging communities to be mindful of the distress fireworks cause to pets and wildlife. While Guy Fawkes Day is not officially recognised in South Africa, informal firework activity still occurs in many neighbourhoods often with serious consequences for animals. “Fireworks may be a thrill for some, but for animals, they’re a source of panic and trauma,” says Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa. “Every year, we […]

Cervical Ventroflexion

November 14, 2025 in , , , , /by

Cervical Ventroflexion Cervical ventroflexion (CVF) in cats is a symptom caused by weakness of the neck muscles, leading to an inability of the neck to maintain the head in an upright position. Feline CVF is most commonly caused by diseases of the nervous system and muscles (and their interaction), but may also be seen with hyperthyroidism, thiamine deficiency, low blood calcium, and variety of intoxications. A recent study of 86 cases of CVF sought to determine, among other things, the diseases associated with this symptom. This study provides veterinarians with a valuable tool to assist in the diagnosis of primary […]

Why Do Cats Love Concrete Slabs? A Vet Explains.

November 13, 2025 in , , , /by

Why Do Cats Love Concrete Slabs? A Vet Explains. The viral trend taps into some very real feline instincts. If you’re scrolling on Instagram, TikTok, or the more specific sub genre #CatTok you may have come across some interesting feline behavior as of late: Numerous videos of excited cat owners presenting their pets with concrete slabs, even taking trips to the hardware store to pick up some pavers. When presented with their new gift, ever curious, cats investigate and ultimately seem to enjoy their hard, new toy. But why? “As is typical with cats, only they know,” Bruce Kornreich, a veterinary cardiologist and director of the Feline […]

Rapid Response Fund Takes Aim At Emergent Threats To Feline Health

November 12, 2025 in , , , , /by

Rapid Response Fund Takes Aim At Emergent Threats To Feline Health Bird flu is on the move—spreading among wild birds, poultry, dairy cows and, occasionally, humans. As cases in cats rise, the Cornell Feline Health Center (FHC) has mobilized its Rapid Response Fund (RRF), awarding nearly $400,000 to establish the Cornell Feline Health Center Feline H5N1 Consortium, a team of Cornell researchers focused on investigating the virus’ spread and impact on the species.  The grant is the latest of over a dozen supporting urgent, high-impact research on emerging threats to feline health that cannot await submission through the annual Cornell Feline Health […]