Mock fallback summary. - **Discussion**: Dr. Pete Shifley explains that the ability of dogs and cats to hear a broader range of frequencies than humans is attributed to both the anatomical structure of their ears and the processing capabilities of their brains. The evolution of their auditory system has been shaped over millennia for specific purposes, as evidenced by comparisons with other animals like bats, which require high-frequency hearing to detect small prey. Shifley emphasizes that dogs have a larger number of outer hair cells in their ears, enhancing their auditory sensitivity. This difference leads to a vastly different auditory experience for pets compared to humans. - **Context**: Understanding the auditory capabilities of pets is important for pet owners, especially in managing environments that may be too loud or stressful for animals. This knowledge can influence how owners interact with their pets, particularly in relation to sound exposure and potential hearing loss. - **External Verification**: [Dogs' Hearing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dogs#Hearing) [Animal Auditory Perception](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0891584918306725) - **Discussion**: Dr. Shifley addresses the concern of noise-induced hearing loss in pets as a legitimate issue, suggesting that loud environments can be detrimental to their hearing health. Owners may not be aware of how high volumes can affect their pets' comfort and well-being. He mentions that while the Fetch Lab does not commonly see cases of noise-induced hearing loss, it can occur in specific situations, such as hunting or military dogs exposed to gunfire without hearing protection. This highlights the need for pet owners to consider the sound environment in their homes. - **Context**: Awareness of noise-induced hearing loss is crucial as it can impact an animal's quality of life and overall health. As pets often share living spaces with owners, understanding how sound levels affect their hearing is a necessity for responsible pet care. - **External Verification**: [Noise-Induced Hearing Loss](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearing_loss#Noise-induced_hearing_loss) [Effects of Noise on Animals](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2602076/) - **Discussion**: Shifley explains the increased prevalence of congenital deafness in Dalmatians, stating that the breed's popularity following the film '101 Dalmatians' led to rampant breeding without genetic oversight. As a result, about one in five Dalmatians is born either bilaterally or unilaterally deaf. This emphasizes the importance of responsible breeding practices to prevent genetic health issues in dogs, raising awareness among prospective pet owners about the long-term implications of breed selection. - **Context**: The recognition of congenital deafness in pets underscores the consequences of mass breeding and the potential health effects on specific breeds. It calls for more stringent breeding regulations to protect dog health and ensure the welfare of future generations. - **External Verification**: [Congenital Deafness in Dogs](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deafness#Congenital_deafness) [Hearing Loss in Animals](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1090008421000802) - **Discussion**: Dr. Shifley highlights elephants as an example of animals with remarkable hearing capabilities. They can produce low-frequency rumbles that travel through the ground, allowing communication with others over distances of up to a mile. This ability showcases the adaptations in the auditory system to facilitate interaction and social structures among elephants. His previous work with marine mammals such as dolphins adds further depth to the understanding of how different environments shape hearing adaptations. - **Context**: The study of hearing in elephants and other animals reflects a broader interest in animal communication and the evolutionary adaptations in the animal kingdom. Understanding these mechanisms enhances the appreciation of biodiversity and the complexity of animal interactions. - **External Verification**: [Elephant Communication](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephant#Communication) [Animal Hearing Adaptations](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6771337/) - **Discussion**: Dr. Bob Data discusses ongoing research aimed at understanding how smell receptors are organized spatially in the nose, a previously uncharted area of sensory mapping. Unlike other senses where structures exhibit clear organization, smell has been thought to lack this characteristic due to the complexity of nasal anatomy. Data’s research indicates that receptors may not be randomly distributed but instead follow a precise pattern. This revelation opens new avenues for understanding olfactory processing and could have implications for olfactory health. - **Context**: Mapping how smell is organized can have significant applications in biology and medicine, particularly in understanding how humans and animals process odors. This work is essential for developing treatments for individuals with olfactory disorders and enhancing our knowledge of sensory biology. - **External Verification**: [Smell and the Olfactory System](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olfactory_system) [Neurobiology of Smell](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S089662732100763X) - **Discussion**: The segment introduces the mission of [[Science Friday]], emphasizing its focus on relevant and impactful topics such as pancreatic cancer vaccines, developments in artificial intelligence, and the science of cold plunges. The host highlights that the show is committed to bringing expert insights to curious audiences, which informs the nature of their discussions. - **Context**: Science podcasts like [[Science Friday]] play a crucial role in making complex scientific topics accessible to the general public, fostering a culture of informed discussion and curiosity about scientific advancements. - **External Verification**: [Science Friday](https://www.sciencefriday.com), [Wikipedia: Science Podcast](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science_podcast), [Health Affairs](https://www.healthaffairs.org/) - **Discussion**: The sponsor message highlights the benefits of connecting with audiences that are not only curious but also prioritize innovation and evidence-based insights. This segment aims to encourage potential sponsors to consider how their brand values align with the interests of the podcast's listeners. - **Context**: Sponsorship is vital for funding independent media like [[Science Friday]], allowing them to continue providing educational content. Understanding the audience can help brands create more tailored marketing strategies that resonate with listeners. - **External Verification**: [NPR Sponsorship](https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2019/01/09/661762222/how-to-pitch-your-brand-to-a-podcaster), [Forbes: Podcast Sponsorship](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/07/06/how-to-successfully-sponsor-a-podcast/?sh=46f4e56e6a92), [Wikipedia: Podcast](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Podcast)

What cats and dogs hear + A 'smell map' of the nose

Topics

Hearing Range of Cats and Dogs

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Pets

Congenital Deafness in Dalmatians

Exceptional Hearing in Elephants

Research on Smell Mapping

Science Friday Overview

Sponsorship Opportunities