When the Irish comedian Graham Linehan arrived at London Heathrow Airport this past weekend, he was greeted by five armed British police officers who arrested him for—get this—three rude tweets. Or, as Linehan wrote on his Substack, “I was arrested at an airport like a terrorist, locked in a cell like a criminal, taken to hospital because the stress nearly killed me, and banned from speaking online—all because I made jokes that upset some psychotic crossdressers.” Whether or not you find his words offensive, it’s hard to disagree with Harry Potter author J. K. Rowling, who tweeted, “This is totalitarianism. Utterly deplorable.” Surely, many Americans reading this must be thinking this was some terrible mistake. A one-off, as the British might say. Actually not. It’s more like standard operating procedure. The British writer Ed West has compiled an illuminating list of Britons prosecuted for tweets deemed offensive, noting that “the vast majority of these cases seem to involve people who have offended progressive norms, or who are seen as being enemies of the progressive alliance.” American commentator Mike Benz, citing The Times of London, claims that there are more than 30 arrests per day, 12,000 over the course of a year, typically on vague charges of inciting violence, for offensive messages and jokes in tweets or WhatsApp chats. Unsurprisingly, some tweets are deemed more offensive than others. The same judge who threw the book at former cops’ WhatsApp messages found a paroled transgender woman (born a man) not guilty for a tweet calling for punching women in the face, West points out. It helps explain how British justice can give a Muslim defendant 180 days for raping two 9-year-old girls while giving a white English woman 270 days for uttering the N-word on a playground. What is the common principle behind this disparate treatment? The idea that government and law enforcement should bend over backward to protect the feelings and reputations of supposedly oppressed groups—transgender persons, Muslim immigrants—while responding with self-righteous vigor against any speck of rudeness by the oppressive native population. This seems to be the animating purpose of what The New York Times’ Ross Douthat calls the “managerial multiculturalism” of law enforcement and civil service, especially in Britain, but also in much of Europe as well. Case in point: the official response to displays all over England of the red-on-white perpendicular St. George’s Cross flag—one of the three crosses that joined together form the United Kingdom’s familiar Union Jack. People have also been painting the St. George’s Cross on roundabouts and sewer covers—and local officials have been painting them over and removing flags from lamp posts. These are obviously protests against the heavy immigration that has increased the U.K.’s foreign-born population from 6% in 1990 to 17% in 2024. This process was encouraged surreptitiously by Tony Blair’s New Labour government (1997-2007) and when both local authorities and national media downplayed the revelations, by a local Labour MP in 2003 and an investigating academic in 2014, of Pakistani-immigrant grooming gangs making sex slaves of teenage girls in working-class Yorkshire towns. The obvious motive of this widespread coverup was fear of anti-Asian prejudice. Gaining control over immigration was one reason for the unexpected success of the Brexit referendum to leave the European Union in 2016. But the Conservative party’s post-Brexit immigration law was poorly drafted and resulted in raising net immigration, mostly from South Asia and Africa, from under 400,000 to over 800,000. The Labour government, elected in December 2024, makes the point that the current immigration level was “a political choice that was never put before the British people.” Yet it hasn’t submitted new legislation and has made statements suggesting it regards immigration critics as bigots. In response to the raising of St. George’s Cross flags over much of Britain, Prime Minister Keir Starmer tweeted, “I’m proud of our flag as a patriotic symbol of our nation, like lots of people I’ve proudly got one up at home.” But he felt obliged to add another sentence: “Using our flag to divide devalues it.” The result has been a rejection of Britain’s two major parties, which date back more than a century: the Conservatives to 1846, Labour to 1900. Starmer’s government’s job approval hovers around 11%, and current polling puts the recently former Reform party, headed by immigration critic Nigel Farage, on course to win 368 of the 650 seats in the House of Commons. Similarly, in Europe, so-called populist parties lead in polls—or are already, as in Italy, Netherlands and Finland, in government. Despite a court decree ordering its leader, Marine Le Pen, off the ballot, the Rally National leads in France. In Germany, the Alternative for Germany has edged ahead of the governing Christian Democrats. Established parties have not allowed Reform, Rally National or Alternative for Germany in their coalitions. In cooperation with the established press, they have suppressed news of crimes and terrorist attacks by Muslim immigrants. In Germany’s regional election, non-Alternative for Germany parties have agreed to say nothing disparaging about immigrants and “negative social developments such as unemployment or threats to domestic security.” They act as if there’s reason to believe that populist parties are equivalent to Hitler’s Nazis. But limiting immigration of people with far different cultural traditions, which in some cases reject cultural tolerance and the rule of law, does not weigh the same in moral scales as rounding up and murdering 6 million Jews. Banning biological men from competing in women’s sports is not akin to rounding up and murdering hundreds of thousands of homosexuals and Roma. “I believe deeply that there is no security if you are afraid of the voices, the opinions and the conscience that guide your very own people,” Vice President JD Vance told a shocked audience at the Munich Security Conference last February. “You cannot win a democratic mandate by censoring your opponents or putting them in jail—whether that’s the leader of the opposition, a humble Christian praying in her own home, or a journalist trying to report the news,” Vance continued. Or, as he might have added if gifted with foresight, an Irish comedian given to firing off rude tweets. COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM  We publish a variety of perspectives. Nothing written here is to be construed as representing the views of The Daily Signal. The post Britain, Land of the Unfree appeared first on The Daily Signal.

Dogs are fascinating creatures, often surprising us with their quirky behaviors. At DogingtonPost, we’ve seen our fair share of weird dog habits that leave pet owners scratching their heads. From eating grass to chasing their tails, these peculiar actions can sometimes be amusing, but they may also indicate underlying issues. In this post, we’ll explore the reasons behind these strange behaviors and when they might be cause for concern. Why Dogs Exhibit Strange Behaviors Dogs often surprise us with their quirky habits. From grass-eating to tail-chasing, these peculiar actions can amuse and sometimes concern pet owners. Let’s explore some of these unusual behaviors and uncover the reasons behind them. The Grass-Eating Phenomenon Many dogs transform into impromptu lawn mowers, leaving owners puzzled. A study revealed that 68% of dogs consume plants daily or weekly. This behavior, called pica, has various causes. Some dogs eat grass to induce vomiting when they feel unwell, while others might seek missing nutrients. If your dog frequently eats grass, consult your vet about potential dietary adjustments. Tail-Chasing: More Than Just Fun Tail-chasing can appear cute but isn’t always harmless. Puppies often chase their tails out of curiosity, but adult dogs might do it due to boredom, anxiety, or neurological issues. The American Kennel Club notes that certain breeds (German Shepherds and Bull Terriers) have a higher tendency for this behavior. Obsessive tail-chasing warrants a vet check-up and possibly more mental stimulation through toys and activities. The Allure of Smelly Spots Does your dog find and roll in the smelliest spots? This behavior stems from their wild ancestry. For wild wolves, scent rolling is a way for individual wolves to bring information back to the rest of the pack. While your pet dog doesn’t hunt for dinner, the instinct persists. To reduce this habit, keep your yard free of potential “stink spots” and use positive reinforcement to discourage rolling in unpleasant odors during walks. Scooting: A Bottom-Dragging Mystery The sight of a dog dragging its bottom across the floor can evoke both amusement and concern. This behavior often indicates irritation or fullness in the anal glands. Frequent scooting should prompt a veterinary consultation to rule out more serious issues (parasites or allergies). The Link Between Behavior and Health These strange behaviors often serve as windows into a dog’s health and well-being. While some habits are harmless, others might signal underlying issues. Regular observation and professional guidance can help distinguish between normal quirks and potential health concerns. As we move forward, we’ll examine the scientific basis behind these peculiar canine behaviors and explore when these habits might become cause for concern. What Drives Dog Behavior Dogs have evolved alongside humans for thousands of years, yet they still retain many behaviors that puzzle us. The science behind these quirky habits helps us better understand our furry friends. Evolutionary Echoes Many of your dog’s strange behaviors are remnants of their wild ancestry. Dog behaviorists believe that a dog’s need to perform the bedtime ritual of turning around in circles before lying down is inherited. This instinct persists even in the coziest of dog beds. Breed-Specific Behaviors Different dog breeds were developed for specific purposes, and these historical roles often manifest in their behavior today. Herding breeds like Border Collies may attempt to herd children or other pets. Terriers, bred for hunting small prey, are more likely to dig and chase small animals. The American Kennel Club reports that Beagles (bred for hunting) have about 220 million scent receptors compared to a human’s mere 5 million. This explains their tendency to follow their noses, sometimes to the point of ignoring commands. Hormonal and Neurological Influences Hormones play a significant role in dog behavior. One large-scale review highlighted that neutered males and females were nearly twice as likely to exhibit behavioural problems. Neurological factors can also contribute to strange behaviors. Compulsive behaviors like excessive licking or tail-chasing can be signs of canine compulsive disorder, which affects up to 3% of dogs (according to the Journal of Veterinary Behavior). Environmental Factors A dog’s environment significantly shapes their behavior. Lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention recommends 30 minutes to 2 hours of activity per day for most dogs (depending on their breed and age). Stress from changes in routine or environment can also trigger unusual behaviors. A study in Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that dogs left alone for more than 4 hours daily were more likely to exhibit problematic behaviors like excessive barking or destructive chewing. Understanding these scientific underpinnings of dog behavior can help you provide a better life for your pet. Recognizing the roots of their quirks allows you to address potential issues more effectively and strengthen your bond with your canine companion. However, some habits may cross the line from quirky to concerning. Let’s explore when these behaviors might indicate a more serious problem. When Your Dog’s Habits Become Concerning Excessive Licking and Chewing Dogs groom themselves naturally, but obsessive licking or chewing indicates a problem. Excessive licking behavior in dogs has been attributed to anxiety and stress release for many years, although this may not be the case for all dogs. This can result in hot spots, skin infections, or gastrointestinal issues if they ingest non-food items. Constant licking of paws or other body parts might point to allergies, anxiety, or pain. Watch the frequency and duration of these behaviors. If they continue for more than a few days, contact your veterinarian. Sudden Behavioral Changes Abrupt changes in your dog’s behavior raise red flags. An usually friendly pup turning aggressive, or an active dog losing interest in walks, requires investigation. Senior pets are more likely to display behavioral issues, often related to their higher risk of developing various medical conditions. A dog that starts hiding or shows signs of lethargy might experience pain or discomfort. Keep a log of any unusual behaviors and their frequency to assist your vet in diagnosing potential issues. Signs That Warrant Professional Help Any behavior that interferes with your dog’s daily life or your household routine requires professional attention. This includes: Repetitive behaviors causing physical harm (e.g., excessive tail chasing leading to injuries) Changes in appetite or water consumption Unusual aggression or fear responses Persistent gastrointestinal issues (vomiting, diarrhea) Difficulty urinating or defecating The American Kennel Club advises consulting a veterinarian if a new behavior persists for more than a few days or accompanies other symptoms like weight loss or changes in energy levels. The Importance of Early Intervention Early intervention prevents minor issues from becoming major health problems. Staying vigilant and seeking professional advice when needed ensures your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Understanding these warning signs forms a key part of responsible pet ownership. Distinguishing Normal from Abnormal Not all weird habits signal problems. Some behaviors (like occasional grass-eating or brief bouts of zoomies) fall within the range of normal dog behavior. However, if a habit becomes frequent, intense, or disruptive, it’s time to take notice. Try to observe your dog’s behavior patterns over time. This helps you establish a baseline for what’s normal for your individual pet. Any significant deviations from this baseline (especially if they persist) warrant closer attention and potentially professional evaluation. Final Thoughts Dogs’ weird habits stem from their evolutionary history, breed traits, and environment. These quirks make our pets unique and lovable. We must observe and understand these behaviors to respond effectively to our dogs’ needs. Some habits are harmless, while others may signal health issues or emotional distress. We can manage unusual behaviors through environmental adjustments, training, and professional help when necessary. Attentiveness to our dogs’ individual patterns empowers us to provide the best care. DogingtonPost offers valuable information to help pet owners navigate their dogs’ weird habits. Understanding these behaviors deepens our bond with our canine companions and enhances the joy of dog ownership (without the need for extensive explanations).

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