Dogs Get Teary Eyed When Reuniting With Owners, Says Study

Sep 4 2024

A 2022 study by Japanese researchers found that dogs produce tears when reuniting with their owners, which may be linked to the “bonding hormone” oxytocin.

This discovery is significant, as it is the first to show that positive emotions can stimulate tear production in non-human animals. Previous research had established that eye contact between dogs and humans releases oxytocin in both, strengthening their bond.

Inspired by this, the team, led by Professor Takefumi Kikusui of Azabu University, conducted a reunion experiment.

They measured the tear volume of 18 dogs at home and after being separated from their owners for over five hours.

The results showed a significant increase in tears when the dogs were reunited with their owners, but not with familiar non-owners. Additional tests revealed that applying oxytocin to dogs’ eyes also increased tear production, confirming the hormone’s role.

The researchers also found that humans are more inclined to care for dogs with teary eyes. In a study involving 74 participants, teary-eyed dogs triggered a 10-15% increase in nurturing responses.

The team suggests that dogs may use tears to elicit protective behaviour from their owners, although further research is needed to explore how dogs communicate with each other through tears.

#MaltaDaily

Nathaniel Attard Appointed PN’s New Communications Director

Sep 4 2024

The Nationalist Party announced on Tuesday that broadcaster Nathaniel Attard has been appointed as the new director of communications and spokesperson for the Opposition Leader.

He takes over from James Aaron Ellul, who is transitioning to a new position as director of the party’s Library. Ellul also shared his intention to run as a candidate in the next general election.

Attard, who has been BirdLife Malta’s communications manager since 2016, brings a strong background in journalism and media.

Prior to his environmental work, he worked as a journalist and news anchor for the Nationalist Party’s media channels, including NET Television, where he produced and presented news and current affairs programs.

He also held leadership roles, serving as head of news for Media Link Communications and editor of the PN’s daily newspaper, in-Nazzjon.

A native of Gozo, Attard once served as a councillor for the PN in Rabat, Gozo.

Meanwhile, Ellul will now lead the PN’s Librarija Informa, a resource center at the party’s headquarters, while continuing his role as the deputy mayor of Floriana. Both appointments will take effect on Monday, September 9.

#MaltaDaily

23 Year Old Man Dies After Suffering Head Injuries In Tarxien

Sep 4 2024

Yesterday afternoon, at around 1700hrs, police were informed that an incident had taken place in Triq il-Witja, Ħal Tarxien.

Police convened immediately on site and preliminary investigations showed that a 23 year old man, resident of Ħal Tarxien, was conducting work in his private property when he suffered head injuries.

The victim was given medical attention by a medical team and Civil Protection members and was taken to Mater Dei Hospital. Unfortunately, he was later certified as deceased.

An inquiry has been opened and investigations by police are ongoing.

#MaltaDaily

Bicycle Ride To Honour Jake Vella Before Funeral

Sep 4 2024

Cyclists have been invited to join a final farewell ride in honour of 15-year-old Jake Vella, ahead of his funeral on Saturday.

Vella, a dedicated triathlete, faced a rare neurological condition called ROHHAD (Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic Dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic Dysregulation), yet he continued to champion charitable causes, organising events to support abandoned animals and raise awareness.

The farewell ride will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Mater Dei Hospital, where Vella spent his final months, and conclude at Birżebbuġa Parish Church, where his funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m.

The Malta Mountain Bike Association shared details of the event, urging participants to “do one last bike ride for beloved Jake.”

Traffic enforcement officers are set to guide the procession. Vella’s parents, who announced his funeral arrangements on social media, revealed that his body will be cremated.

Rest in peace Jake.

#MaltaDaily