Episode 26 Season 7: The Cold-COVID Connection and Chonky Dogs

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Fascinating new research reveals how catching a common cold may provide surprising protection against COVID-19, reducing infection risk by 50% and viral load by tenfold. We explore the science behind this finding and why children might experience milder COVID symptoms thanks to their frequent colds.

• Recent study shows having a cold in the previous month led to 50% lower risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2
• Participants with recent colds showed tenfold lower COVID-19 viral loads
• Common colds trigger production of airway defense proteins that stay active and help fight other infections
• Children have higher activation of these defense proteins and catch colds more frequently
• "Cross protection" may explain why kids often had milder or asymptomatic COVID cases
• This was an observational study before vaccines were available

We also dive into canine obesity research, examining why 50% of US dogs are overweight and what pet parents can do about it:

• Overweight dogs may live 2.5 years less than dogs at ideal weight
• Retrievers and spaniels show 10% higher food motivation than average
• Labrador retrievers have a genetic mutation (POMC gene) that prevents feeling full
• Multi-dog households and urban environments increase food motivation
• Body condition scoring (BCS) is an underutilized clinical tool for monitoring weight
• Structured feeding times, measured portions, exercise, and food puzzles help manage weight

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