47. How Americans Came to Feel the Way They Do About Animals with Dr. Monica Murphy

Dr. Ann Hohenhaus interviews Dr. Monica Murphy, a veterinarian and co-author of "Our Kindred Creatures: How Americans Came to Feel the Way They Do About Animals" — a fascinating book that looks at how America’s attitudes toward animals were transformed in the late 19th century. Tune in as they discuss:

• Why Dr. Murphy found this particular time period intriguing
• The effectiveness of Henry Bergh, founder of the ASPCA, in advocating for animals
• The impact the book "Black Beauty" had on animal welfare
• Why an outbreak of horse flu in 1872 highlighted the need for veterinary care
• The role of veterinarians advocating for animal welfare
• How the cruel transport of sea turtles destined for New York dinner tables inspired Henry Bergh to advocate for the welfare of wildlife
• Why PT Barnum was a lightning rod for reformers 
• Does the physical and emotional distance humans have from certain species impact animal welfare?
• Dr. Murphy's ideas for a new book

Also on this month's show: 

• Viral trending animal story of the month, featuring the couple who used their wedding fund to rescue and treat a dog who had been injured in a hit-and-run
• Animal news, including the discovery in Siberia of a 37,000-year-old saber-toothed kitten with its fur, flesh, and tiny whisker tufts intact
• Pet Health Listener Q&A

Do you have a pet question for Dr. Hohenhaus? Email [e-mail] to have your question answered on Ask the Vet's Listener Q&A.

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