Animal Tales & Features

People who spend time watching aquariums and fish tanks see improvements in their physical and mental well-being. The benefits include lower blood pressure and heart rate.

One-eyed cat and boy with autism enjoy affection and special companionship.

Birds are social creatures that enjoy the company of other living beings. Having one as a pet can mean a long-term commitment because of their longevity.

Sea turtle centers teach conservation and provide a close look at wild reptiles. But think twice about turtles as pets, says veterinarian.

Guinea pigs can help children bond socially, get exercise, and learn to be dependable for others.

Busy ferrets are curious and playful, and can help with emotional well-being.

Boys in a juvenile detention center in Georgia train rescue dogs so they can be adopted and make great pets.

Orphaned and hurt cubs return to health and their wild life.

Visit Storybook Farms, a therapeutic riding center for mentally, physically, and emotionally handicapped children of all ages.

Meet Anne-Marie and Scarlett, mother and daughter who keep backyard poultry as a hobby.

Ticks can carry germs that can make you sick. Protect yourself, your family, and your pets from tick bites this hunting season.

One Health is the idea that the health of people is connected to the health of animals and our shared environment. Learn why One Health is important and how, by working together, we can achieve the best health for everyone.

Pets provide many benefits to people. However, some pets can carry harmful germs that can make us sick.

There are many ways to explore the animal world. Follow these tips to help you prevent illness when visiting animal exhibits this fall.

Dog bites can cause pain and injury, but they can also spread germs that cause infection. Nearly 1 in 5 people bitten by a dog requires medical attention. Any dog can bite – know how to enjoy dogs without getting bitten.

Animals can be entertaining and educational.  However, people, especially children, can get sick from contact with animals.  The good news: You can help prevent illnesses from animals.

Learn how to help prevent rabies, a deadly virus that threatens the health of people and animals.

Some animals may put hunters at risk for brucellosis, a potentially deadly disease. Learn about simple safety tips that can help hunters prevent this illness.

A healthy diet is important for everyone, even your pets! When picking out the right food for your pet, there are important things to consider. Did you know that what you feed your pet can even affect your health and the health of your family?

If a natural disaster strikes, what will happen to your pet? Be prepared: make a plan and prepare a disaster kit for your pet.

September 28 is World Rabies Day. Established in 2007, it aims to raise awareness about rabies and help the world come together to fight this dreadful, neglected disease

Did you know that reptiles and amphibians like turtles, lizards, and frogs can carry a harmful germ called Salmonella? If there are young children in your home, reptiles and amphibians might not be safe pets for your family.

Live poultry, such as chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys, often carry harmful germs called Salmonella. After you touch a bird, or anything in the area where they live and roam, wash your hands so you don’t get sick!

Taking your faithful pooch or kitty on a flight? Make sure you’ve got your pet’s paperwork wherever you go-and bring it back with you, too. The United States expects the same documents regardless of whether your pet is a first-time traveler to the United States or is returning from an international trip.