In the last week of every month we take a look back at the crazy creatures and amazing animals that have made the headlines in recent weeks. Here’s a reminder of what August’s headlines told us about some of the animals that share our planet:

National Dog Day!

Those of you with canine companions probably already know that August 26th marked National Dog Day across the UK and around the world (#nationaldogday on Twitter). Whilst the annual event celebrates dogs of all shapes, sizes, ages and breeds and encourages rehoming, this year’s National Dog Day took on an extra poignancy in the southern states of the USA. With Hurricane Harvey causing devastating flooding to swathes of Texas and Louisiana, animal charities were encouraging donations of money and supplies to local shelters as volunteers rescued frightened animals from the rising waters. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the flooding.

Fingers crossed for a pregnant panda

Edinburgh Zoo has recently announced that its resident female Giant Panda Tian Tian is pregnant; with her due date expected to be around the time of this post (so we may have more news as you read this!) Along with her partner Yang Guang, the pair are the only Giant Pandas currently living in the UK, loaned from China for a ten-year period ending in 2021. Attempts at mating naturally sadly failed, and so Tian Tian received a little help in the form of IVF intervention. With population numbers in crisis (research suggests that there are fewer than 2,000 Giant Pandas left worldwide), the global breeding programme is of great importance and so everyone at the zoo is hoping to hear the patter of tiny claws very soon!

Until next time, very best wishes from Shailen and The Ralph Site team
The Ralph Site, non-profit pet loss support