When I was growing up, seeing a dog tied up outside a shop while the owner popped inside was commonplace. Although a rarer sight these days, it makes me cringe. Not because of the often expectant pooch waiting patiently by the door, but because of the very real possibility that the dog may not be […]
Animal emotions stare us in the face — are our pets happy?
Scientists are starting to be able to accurately read animal facial expressions and understand what they communicate. Facial expressions project our internal emotions to the outside world. Reading other people’s faces comes naturally and automatically to most of us. Without your best friend saying a word, you know — by seeing the little wrinkles around […]
Cats with round faces and big eyes might be cute, but you can’t tell how they’re feeling – new research
For decades, humans have been selectively breeding cats and dogs to exhibit exaggerated features – particularly in their faces. When it comes to cats, the very flat, round faces of the modern Persian and Exotic Shorthair are classic examples. These breeds are likely a result of humans’ preference for infant-like features that may directly tap in […]
Hot dogs and cool cats: keeping pets cool without blowing your energy bill
As the weather heats up, Australian households won’t just be cranking up the air conditioning for themselves. Some households will be turning it on for their dogs or cats. Our research on energy demand and household cooling highlights a recent trend towards air-conditioning rooms or homes for pets. As well as cooling homes occupied by both […]