Alex van der Walt, B.Sc. Animal Science (Hons.) & Veterinary Student

This record is held by a Shire horse named Sampson (later known as Mammoth), born in 1846 in Toddington Mills, England. The largest horse ever recorded in history stood at an exceptional height of 21.2 hands (7 feet, 2 inches, or about 2.19 meters) by the time he was four years old, setting a record …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction The origin of “man’s best friend” (the domestic dog) is a contentious topic in science. Where and when the domestic dog (“man’s best friend”)  came into being is controversial in science. It can be hard to …

Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide, and the holiday is not only celebrated between couples but has broadened to celebrate love in all capacities. As pet owners, we may feel enticed to celebrate our beloved pets on this day, as we should every day. I write this article to give you some inspiration to celebrate your …

According to the American Kennel Club the five most popular dog breeds for 2022 in the US are listed in this article. We dive into a brief description of each breed and comment on why they might be so popular.  Introduction While we all love our furry friends, some breeds seem more popular than others. …

With only two species of the Northern White Rhinoceros remaining in the world, scientists hope to use the intricate process of in vitro fertilization (IVF) to save the Northern White Rhino Species.  As a veterinary student, I find this case groundbreaking in both its use of modern medicine and conservation efforts. I couldn’t help but …

Tail docking and ear cropping are two surgical practices often performed on specific dog breeds. They are performed for aesthetic purposes and, therefore, have come under scrutiny over the last few decades, resulting in their being banned in many countries. While these procedures have a long history, they are also subjects of significant controversy due …

We dive into the world of science, where a new species of dinosaur has been discovered and confirmed in 2024 that lived 300 million years ago. As a scientist, I still marvel at the ability to find a new species 300 million years later. If you want to learn more about the recent announcement about …

You may have heard about seeing the ‘Big Five’ in Africa, but have you heard about the ‘Ugly Five’. This article will introduce the lesser known, yet still exciting to spot, ‘Ugly Five’ in Africa. Whilst this list is always up for debate, for now, this is the ‘Ugly Five.’  Who are the ‘Ugly Five’? …

As an Animal Scientist and future veterinarian, I find the production of antivenom for snake bites fascinating. I hope you enjoy learning more about this process that combines animals’ natural immune responses with science to obtain antivenom for snake bites.  Introduction Antivenom is a crucial part of medicine in countries that have venomous snakes. Antivenom …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction I recently went on safari in South Africa and saw a zebra with a very unusual pattern on the saddle area of its body. This pattern was symmetrical on both sides, which you can see in …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction Welcome to our article on 10 ruminant animals. As an Animal Scientist and Veterinary Student, understanding how food is digested in domesticated ruminant animals is vital for understanding what they need in their diet. In this …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction With the 5th of November just around the corner, if you own a pet (or not), let us help you keep them a little calmer this year amidst the fireworks displays. My name is Alex, a …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction Dr. Lesleigh Rous, a South African veterinarian, shares her insights into foods considered safe for dogs. We’re excited to share her insights in this article below so you can learn more about keeping your dog’s diet …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction In a heartwarming story of resilience and the indomitable spirit of life, a 3-week-old Chihuahua puppy named Gizmo, found abandoned and at death’s doorstep, made a miraculous recovery that captured many’s hearts.  Left alone to fend …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction As a qualified Animal Scientist and vet student, I am always passionate about learning more about all animals. I went into the Kruger Park on a holiday and witnessed a young elephant with three legs keep …

As an Animal Scientist and vet student, I love exploring versatile dog breeds, including the small ones. I dove into some smaller dogs you might like to learn about. I hope you enjoy reading about your possible ‘toy-size’ companions. The transition from their wolf ancestor to something so small is a fascinating journey. Toy dog …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction Welcome to our article on the existence of Wild Horses in America. I am admittedly a ‘horse-girl’ and have been fortunate enough to grow up surrounded by them. As a qualified Animal Scientist and vet student, I couldn’t …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction Welcome to our article on The Origin of Horses. It’s hard not to marvel at these majestic animals that have gone through a fascinating evolutionary journey. We also see many different breeds today in different sizes …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction Did you know the estimated population of domesticated cats on Earth is 600 million. The origin of domesticated cats (Felis catus) is a tale that spans thousands of years, connecting our modern-day house cats to their …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction Learn more about what foreign objects could get stuck in your dog. We interviewed a South African veterinarian to learn more about objects dogs eat that can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract or get stuck …

Our expert-vetted content is grounded in current scientific publications, yet we acknowledge science’s ever-evolving nature. Read our full editorial and disclosure policy.  Introduction Taking a look into orcas (Orcinus orca) hunting sharks in South Africa. A deadly duo of orcas (also known as killer whales) has been identified as the initial killers of sharks in South Africa. While they …

Killer whales or Orcas have been attacking boats off the coast near Spain and Portugal. This subpopulation is becoming known as the Iberian Orcas. The incident on the 4th of May, 2023, resulted in severe ship damage, causing it to sink. It is the third time in three years that an Orca attack has resulted …