This summer, as we commemorate the 30th anniversary of astronaut Neil Armstrong's first steps on the moon, let's remember a canine named Laika. In 1957 Sputnik II, a Russian satellite, was launched into orbit. Laika was the passenger on the mission. The purpose of sending the dog in to space was for Russian scientists to measure any biological changes that occurred and to evaluate how space travel affected living beings. Laika did not survive the mission, but is historically remembered for her role in helping to further mankind's success in the space program.
Dogs are masters of expression, though sometimes their physical cues are confusing to people.
Canine moods may be fleeting depending upon a dog's surroundings. Relaxed ears, wagging tail. May eagerly pant. Cowering, whining, shaking, flattened ears and tail tucked under. According to a study released by the New England Journal of Medicine cat and dog bite wounds that become infected play host to an average of five types of germs.