Short Wave

Dogs Go Viral For 'Talking' To Humans — But Can They?

Sep 6, 2024
A viral dog named Bunny has captured hearts by seemingly 'talking' through a button soundboard. But can dogs really comprehend these words? A recent study dives into this question, alongside a charming exploration of a new microbial species thriving in harsh environments. Additionally, the podcast touches on the enigmatic life of Valdemir, a beluga whale known for his playful demeanor and intriguing backstory, shedding light on wildlife safety and conservation efforts.
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ANECDOTE

New Species in Mono Lake

  • A new coanoflagellate species was discovered in California's Mono Lake, a harsh environment rich in cyanide and arsenic.
  • This species, the closest living relative to animals, uniquely hosts live bacteria within its cell colonies, unlike other coanoflagellates that consume bacteria.
ANECDOTE

Bunny's Communication

  • Bunny, a dog on TikTok, appears to communicate using buttons on a soundboard.
  • In one instance, she seemingly indicated pain in her paw by pressing buttons like "ouch" and "paw".
INSIGHT

Dog's Comprehension

  • Before claiming dogs "talk" via buttons, we must confirm they understand the words.
  • A study suggests dogs understand words like "play" or "outside" from buttons, even without owner cues.
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