Fwd: HumaneSpot Spotlight Selections for February 17, 2010

February 28, 2010

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February 17, 2010

Here are your latest research spotlights from HumaneSpot.org, the world's only research-based website designed exclusively for animal advocates. On behalf of everyone at HRC, thanks for using our research in your work for animals.

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The Economics of Ending Canada's Commercial Harp Seal Hunt

New Research Citation, Entered on 2/16/2010; Original Item from 2009

Since the mid-20th century, the public has opposed seal hunts. However, the Canadian government defends the practice by arguing that seal pelts are an important source of income for hunters, that killing methods are humane, and that these hunts are sustainable. This paper evaluates the economic argument for ending the Canadian commercial seal hunt.

by University of Guelph

Details: http://www.humanespot.org/node/3600

Environmental Effects of Protein-Rich Food Products in the Netherlands, Consequences of Animal Protein Substitutes

New Research Citation, Entered on 2/15/2010; Original Item from 2008

In late 2008, the Dutch Vegetarian Association studied the environmental consequences of substituting vegetable proteins for animal proteins in the Dutch diet. By looking at both the product and menu levels of consumer diets, the environmental burdens of both types of products were analyzed and researchers concluded that ecological impacts of both animal and vegetable protein sources can vary significantly.

by Blonk Milieuadvies, Gouda; Nederlandse Vegetariersbond

Details: http://www.humanespot.org/node/3597

Becoming Vegetarian "Can Harm the Environment"

New Research Citation, Entered on 2/14/2010; Original Item from 2010

According to a study conducted by Cranfield University on behalf of the World Wildlife Federation, "a switch from beef and milk to highly refined livestock product analogues such as tofu could actually increase the quantity of arable land needed to supply the UK."

by World Wildife Federation

Details: http://www.humanespot.org/node/3598

The Association Between Pet Care & Deviant Household Behaviors... in New Providence (Bahamas)

New Research Citation, Entered on 2/13/2010; Original Item from 2009

A study of college students from New Providence, The Bahamas, identifies a link between domestic violence (at both household and personal levels) and pet care in Afro-Caribbean communities. Where pets were intentionally harmed and "not well cared for," researchers also found evidence of other violence or deviant behavior.

by Anthrozoos

Details: http://www.humanespot.org/node/3596

New Study: California Dairy Industry Responsible for More than 443,000 Jobs

New Research Citation, Entered on 2/11/2010; Original Item from 2010

This report estimates that the dairy industry within the state of California is responsible for 3% of the state's job production, creating a "positive ripple effect throughout local communities." This article also includes statewide dairy industry production figures and related statistics.

by California Milk Advisory Board

Details: http://www.humanespot.org/node/3591

Exploratory Study of Stress Buffering Response Patterns from Interaction with a Therapy Dog

New Research Citation, Entered on 2/10/2010; Original Item from 2009

This analysis of existing research on the physiological stress response of humans in interacting with their own dogs and/or unfamiliar therapy dogs under similar conditions found that the stress response of owners interacting with their own dogs may extend to others interacting with unknown therapy dogs.

by Anthrozoos

Details: http://www.humanespot.org/node/3589