World News Roundup: August 25, 2017

IDT Biologika Animal Health Acquires Canadian Facility (Biospace)

“IDT Biologika, a world leader in vaccines, and Gallant Custom Laboratories, an IDT Biologika company serving the animal health industry, have purchased a new facility in Canada that will significantly enhance the company’s vaccine development and manufacturing capabilities. The companies plan to build out the facility as a technological beacon for veterinary medicine and livestock health in the region.”

British Columbia SPCA Calls for Removal of Calf-Roping from Rodeo (The Province)

The BC SPCA is joining several groups calling for an end to the calf-roping and steer wrestling events at the Chilliwack Fair rodeo. “The 145th Chilliwack Fair rodeo took place from August 11 to 13 amid controversy over the calf-roping and steer-wrestling events.” The fair’s board has agreed to vote on the removal of these event ahead of next year’s show.

Stray Dogs Are Turning Blue in Indian Neighborhood (Newsweek)

“Bright blue stray dogs were spotted roaming the Navi Mumbai’s Taloja industrial area earlier this month, raising concern for the level of pollution in the Kasadi River.” An investigation into the situation found that a chemical manufacturer of dye and colorants was responsible for releasing the blue dye into the water and the air. This manufacturer, which failed to follow directives on preventing water and air pollution, has been issued a closure notice.

Turkmenistan Creates First Animal Shelter (FOX News)

As Turkmenistan prepares to host the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, the country has opened its first animal shelter in a town outside Ashgabat. “The move comes as animal rights activists have protested what they described as a brutal campaign to slaughter homeless animals.” The government has promised assistance in the form of additional land and medications for the shelter animals, which currently number about 150.

Chinese Pet Owners Turn to Acupuncture to Treat Their Pets (Hindustan Times)

“In a new trend, pet owners in China are turning to acupuncture to help soothe the aches and pains of their beloved cats and dogs.” Increasing numbers of pet owners are now opting for this holistic practice to treat their pets suffering from arthritis, paralysis, and other medical conditions that result in loss of movement.

Britain’s Rarest Animal Spotted in Manchester (The Independent)

A black fox—a species that largely disappeared from the United Kingdom after being hunted for their fur—was spotted roaming the streets of Sale in Greater Manchester. “The elusive black fox climbed inside a van and was later filmed as it trotted around an industrial unit.” But this black fox was only a runaway pet.

Ghanaian Court Fines Women for Refusing to Vaccinate Dogs (GhanaWeb)

“The Tarkwa Magistrate Court One has fined a seamstress from Nkamponase in the Tarkwa Nsueam Municipality GH¢480 for refusing to vaccinate her dogs.” Investigations revealed that the woman lied about vaccinating her suspected rabid dog after the dog bit a 6-year-old. After pleading guilty for the offense, the woman was sentenced to six months in prison.

Beijing Calls for Safer Zoos After Animal Attacks (Sixth Tone)

A bear bit a man in Beijing on the same day the city published standards aimed at keeping distance between tourists and the wildlife. “The proposed safety standards, originally made public on the municipal government’s website on Friday, say that wildlife parks where tourists can drive their own cars should install fences, moats, or glass walls ‘to make sure no contact whatsoever is possible between the vehicles and the animals.’”