Weekend Update March 12, 2010

By Eric Goebelbecker | Published: March 11, 2010

Patience is a virtue

This blog has been silent for two long weeks. I apologize for that — it’s been two weeks I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Please stick around, there are some changes in store and they are worth the wait, I promise.

Let’s start with an uplifting story about a man who was reunited with his dog after two years.

On the other hand, a few weeks ago the Wall Street Journal had story about a Marine service dog suffering from PTSD. The more we learn, the more the similarities between people and animals become apparent.

On that note, a panel assembled by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) discussed dolphins and how their intelligence (at least according to some research) may rival those of humans and what sort of ethical challenges that may present. Unfortunately the full version of the article is only available to subscribers. Here are some dolphin facts though:

Dolphins can recognize themselves in mirrors.
Dolphins have larger brains than us, and while they are also larger than humans, they still have a greater brain-to-body-weight ratio than great apes.
Dolphins have a neocortex, the part of the brain responsible for self-awareness and solving problems, that is quite complex. This could indicate a very sophisticated level of intelligence.
Researchers have found neurons in dolphins that have been linked to emotions, social cognition, and theory of mind.

So, maybe we should be treating them better?

Research has a dark side too, and the source of animals for research can be very controversial. Some research is supported by “Class B” dealers that have a sordid history of misconduct. Fortunately, this may be coming to an end.

There’s been some great news on the Breed Specific Legislation front. Elgin IL has passed a dangerous dog bill that does not include any breed specific language. One city at a time, folks.