Dog breeds are often recognized for distinctive traits -- the short legs of a dachshund, wrinkled face of a pug, spotted coat of a Dalmatian. Unfortunately, the genetics that give various breeds their particular attributes are often the result of inbreeding.

An overwhelming majority of canines in the United States undergo surgical sterilization before one year of age. With the importance of gonadal organs, specifically in the growth and development of certain non-reproductive aspects, it is important that researchers pinpoint potential adverse effects of their early removal.

With COVID-19 taking an uprising in cases, and further studies coming out everyday, there are some additional questions that have come up, that were unexplainable, when the virus first started out. However, with more ongoing information and research, the question, “Can dogs and cats get coronavirus?” is one that might just have an explanation— and one that you might not expect.

Sir Theodore Teddy Bandekar, (also known as Teddy or Theo), is Dr. Bandekar’s puppy, and newest member of New Britain Veterinary Clinic’s Family. Teddy is a seven month old Maltipoo, (maltese and poodle mix), and was a rescue puppy at two months old, from Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue, based in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania.