Jamie Bichelman
WriterLocation: U.S.Education: Master's in clinical psychology from NYU; master's degrees in psychology and journalism from Harvard University.Jamie Evan Bichelman is an avid runner, writer, and lover of all things cats, 'Harry Potter,' and 'The Beatles.' Jamie is an award-winning journalist and an accomplished media relations professional in the animal welfare movement. His research interests include animal behavior, health across the lifespan, and the link between nutrition and mental health.
More From Jamie Bichelman
Do Birds Ever Get Cold? Here's What to Keep in Mind While Birding in the Winter
Many birds are known for flying south in winter, while others seem to stick around and appear at backyard feeders. Do birds get cold?
Why Vets Say Pistachios Are a Snack To Avoid for Your Canine
You may enjoy the health benefits that assorted nuts bring to your heart and body, but vets say that pistachios pose a risk to your pup's health.
Here’s What Seeing a Dolphin May Mean Spiritually
If you believe the universe conspired to place you in the vicinity of a dolphin, you may believe there is deeper meaning to this encounter.
Is It Safe To Eat Ice Cream Made Out of Snow? Here’s What To Know
If you are outside enjoying a snow day with your family, you may be wondering if you can make ice cream made out of snow. Here's our insight.
Is It Safe for Dogs to Have Bell Peppers? Here's What Experts Say
If you enjoy a variety of vegetables, like bell peppers, in your diet, it is important to know if it is beneficial to give your companion dog a bite.
Can Dogs Get Norovirus From Humans? What Vets Say About Human-To-Dog Transmission
If you have developed a virus that is causing an illness, it is natural to wonder if this can be transmitted to your companion dog.
The 7 Best Plants To Keep You Company in Your Home Office or Work Space
Whether you work from home, a cubicle, or other space, here are our seven favorite plants you can use to add decor and benefit your health.
What Is the Best Dog Dna Test? 5 of Our Favorite Options for Doggy Discovery
If you are curious about the origins of your dog, doing a DNA test can help you learn about their backstory. Here are our favorites.
What Is the Spiritual Meaning Behind the Wolf Moon?
Several cultures find spiritual significance in the different phases of the moon. When it comes to the wolf moon, here's why it matters to many.
How Long Does It Take Birds to Find a Bird Feeder? Tips for Bird Watchers
If you are into birdwatching, you likely purchased a bird feeder to attract birds to your home. Here's what experts say can help attract birds.
Can Dogs Eat Black Olives? Here’s Why Vets Say To Avoid Feeding Them to Your Pup
There are some healthful foods that both dogs and their human counterparts can share. However, for many reasons, olives pose a health risk to dogs.
5 Family-Friendly Games You Can Play On New Year’s Eve
There are many ways that families can engage children in an exciting way to celebrate New Year's Eve. Here are our favorite family-friendly games.
What To Know About the 12 Grapes New Year’s Tradition Taking Over Social Media
People talking about a "12 grapes" New Year's tradition on your social media feed, you're not alone.
Why Do My Pillows Turn Yellow? An Eco-Friendly Guide To Keeping Your Pillows Clean
If you are a heavy sweater when you sleep, chances are you notice yellowing pillows and stains of various sizes. Here's how to clean your pillows.
The Adorable Reason Why Your Dog Stretches When He Sees You
Dogs instinctively stretch after periods of being dormant. Experts say they may stretch when they see their guardians to encourage play time.
Here’s How To Make a Custom Spotify Playlist for Your Companion Animal
If you have a subscription to Spotify, or if you have access through a free account, here's our tips to make your companion animal a playlist.
Why Is the North Sea So Dangerous? The History and Science Behind Its Bad Reputation
If you have become enamored with watching videos of the not-so-gentle North Sea, you are not alone by any means. Here's why it's so dangerous.
Avocado Is Great for Humans, but How About for Dogs? Let’s Explore
Avocados are great for human consumption, but they contain a toxin called persin that could be dangerous to your companion animal.
Are Christmas Cactuses Poisonous? What to Know Before Buying One This Holiday Season
While a Christmas Cactus is not necessarily poisonous to cats, consuming one can lead to stomach problems or vomiting.
Why Are so Many People Walking Barefoot? 5 Benefits of Ditching Your Shoes
Once you ditch your shoes and walk barefoot, experts believe your feet will become stronger and you will become more connected with the planet.
Mourning Doves Are on the Decline Thanks to Human Interference — Details Here
Mourning doves are beautiful birds with an interesting history, but if you're seeing less than you used to, it's unfortunately due to human intervention.
What Is Rage Syndrome in Dogs? Experts Explain This Phenomenon
Rage Syndrome is a mysterious and rare genetic form of canine aggression. Although it's uncommon, here are the signs your dog may have this disorder.
5 Vegan Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul
It is very easy to make vegan soup with easy swaps from traditional animal-based recipes. Check out these five recipes we love.
Pomegranate Is Packed With Antioxidants, but Is It Safe for Your Cat?
We humans enjoy the nutritious nature of fruits, but some fruits can be harmful to cats. Here's why vets say cats should not eat pomegranate.
Can Dogs Eat Rosemary? What Experts Have to Say About This Herb
If you're in the kitchen cooking with rosemary and your dog starts sniffing around, can they have a taste? Here's what vets say is the answer.
California's 'Ghost Lake' Returns After More Than a Century — About Tulare Lake
Tulare Lake was once the largest body of fresh water west of the Mississippi. Here's what its return over 100 years later means for California.
Our Helpful Guide to Propagating a Spider Plant
If you wish to propagate a spider plant you are in luck. With our how-to guide, you can successfully navigate this exciting project with green thumbs.
Does Your Kitty Need a Nightlight? Here's How Much Cats Can Really See in the Dark
It's not uncommon to see cats awake and playful at night. Is this because they see better in the dark? We unveil these answers and more.
5 Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Ideas for Families to Try This Holiday Season
Vegan gingerbread cookies taste every bit as delicious as the original versions, but without the cruelty. Here are our favorite recipes.
Do Grizzly Bear and Polar Bear Hybrids Exist in Nature? All About "Pizzlies" and "Grolars"
Let's explore whether grizzly bears and polar bears interact in nature, if they could conceivably mate together, and which of the two is larger.
Kraft Mac & Cheese Faces Another Class Action Lawsuit — Details Here
A nationwide class action lawsuit was filed in December 2023 that alleges Kraft Heinz deceived consumers. Here's what we know.
Can Poinsettias Live Outside in the Winter? Plan for Your Holiday Decor Accordingly
If you were gifted a poinsettia or purchased one from a local nursery, it is important to know whether they should be kept inside during winter.
5 Thanksgiving Safety Tips to Keep Your Companion Animals Happy and Comfortable
Especially during the holidays, pet parents should be aware of potential dangers to their companions, like toxic foods or overwhelming strangers.
5 Vegan Breakfast Ideas to Make With Your Thanksgiving Leftovers
If you had yourself a wonderful, ethical Thanksgiving feast, check out these five amazing ideas to make use of your leftovers for a great breakfast.
Do Ferrets Make Good Companion Animals? Experts Unpack Pros and Cons
If you are seeking a long-term companion animal for your family, are ferrets a proper choice? Let's explore the ethics and details of ferrets as pets.
Have You Seen a Rainbow Lately? Here Are 5 Spiritual Interpretations of This Weather Phenomenon
A naturally occurring phenomenon, some see rainbows as symbols of love, while others see them as symbolic of new beginnings.
Do the Little Blueberries on Pines Taste Good? Food Experts Weigh In
Are the little blueberries on pines purely ornamental or do they have culinary value? We explore this fascinating question.
5 Spiritual Interpretations of What It Means When You See a White Butterfly
People have assigned significant spiritual meaning to coming across a white butterfly. Here are five of those beliefs.
Dolphins Are Among the Smartest in the Animal Kingdom — Here's Why
Dolphins have a reputation for being smart animals. Captivity at the hands of humans depresses their plight. Here's insight into their intelligence.
How Bird Flu Presents in Humans and Companion Animals (Exclusive)
Farm Forward Executive Director Andrew deCoriolis shares insight into how bird flu reaches humans and companion animals.
Raccoons Get a Bad Reputation — Do All Raccoons Have Rabies? What to Know
If you come across a raccoon in the wild, is it axiomatic to believe the animal has rabies? We explore whether all raccoons have rabies, and more.
What Does Vegemite Taste Like? Taste Testers Share Their Thoughts
The Australian yeast-based spread has been famously mentioned in popular culture for decades. But what does it taste like?
What Happened to the 'Free Willy' Killer Whale, Keiko? One Podcast Investigates the Truth
The 1993 film was a hit, but not many knew of the whereabouts of the star orca of the movie, Keiko, until now. So, what happened to the killer whale?
Why Do People Eat Cornstarch? A Look Into This Perplexing Culinary Trend
Cornstarch is a popular ingredient in sauces and various dishes around the world. As it turns out, however, some people are eating it by itself.
Butterflies Have a Major Sweet Tooth — a Look at Their Unique Diets
Butterflies are known for being pollinators, which means naturally they eat a lot of nectar. But their diets can vary based on species and availability.
Here Are 5 Yummy Vegan Peanut Butter Sandwich Ideas for Kids
Whether you're making a snack or a meal, these 5 vegan peanut butter sandwich ideas will make the children in your life smile.
Is There an Environmentally Friendly Way to Dispose of Paper Towels?
If you have single-use paper towels, you're likely concerned if you can dispose of them in an environmentally safe way.
Why Are Tums Made of Chalk? Exploring the Composition of the Popular Medicine
Tums are a popular over-the-counter medication meant to treat stomach discomfort, but its chalky makeup is a key element in the treatment process.
Can You Microwave Styrofoam? Investigating Polystyrene and Foam Nomenclature
Polystyrene, the foam within disposable takeout containers, and EPS are all the same material. Styrofoam, it turns out, is entirely different.
5 Spiritual Views of What It Means to See a Raccoon
Raccoons are precious, mischievous animals who sometimes get a bad reputation. Seeing a raccoon can mean an influx of creativity, deception, and more.