Approximately 500 golden retrievers are enrolled or in the process of enrolling in the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study with
Colorado State University veterinary oncologist Rodney Page, DVM, DACVIM, director of the Flint Animal Cancer Center. Page
hopes to enroll 3,000 dogs during the next two years for his long-term cancer study. Partnered with the Morris Animal Foundation,
CSU investigators are currently recruiting young, purebred golden retrievers in an effort to learn more about how to prevent
canine cancer and other diseases. "Our hope is that we will be able to identify some significant modifiable risk factors that
will improve the health of dogs and potentially provide clues for human health improvement as well," Page says. The study
will span 10 to 15 years. CSU claims the study is the largest and longest observational study ever done to improve the health
of dogs. For more information or to apply for the study, go to caninelifetimehealth.org.
District of Columbia
The orangutans at the Smithsonian's National Zoological Park are using iPads. Made available through Apps for Apes, an initiative
conducted by the conservation organization Orangutan Outreach, the program lets zoo orangutans enjoy 10 different applications
that feature cognitive games, drawing exercises, virtual musical instruments and more. It's reported that 36-year-old Bonnie
likes to hit the drums, 16-year-old Kyle likes to play the piano and 25-year-old Iris likes the soothing sounds and animated
fish swimming in a virtual koi pond. "Apps for Apes fits perfectly in this new era of zookeeping," says Becky Malinsky, great
ape keeper at the National Zoo. "It's about changing up the day-to-day lives of our animals. We already vary their food, toys
and social interactions every day, but the iPad offers another way to engage their sight, touch and hearing."
Illinois
Shedd Aquarium welcomed a 1-year-and-9-month-old blind sea lion pup in January. The pup, named "Cruz" by aquarium staff, was
rescued on a beach in Santa Cruz, Calif., in July 2012. He was found alone, lethargic and blind in both eyes. Veterinary staff
say radiographs show metal shards from gunshot wounds in his skull, which likely caused the blindness. Unable to be released
back into the wild, Cruz will be receive proper long-term care and the space needed for a permanent home at Shedd.
Kansas
Revenue from new Kansas license plates aim to reduce the stray animal population. "I'm Pet Friendly" license plates will support
externships for Kansas State University veterinary students as well as spay-neuter programs at animal shelters across the
state, according to the university. The pet-friendly plates require a one-time cost $45.50 and an additional $50 donation
annually.
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