Matthew Russell

Matthew Russell

Matthew Russell is a West Michigan native and with a background in journalism, data analysis, cartography and design thinking. He likes to learn new things and solve old problems whenever possible, and enjoys bicycling, spending time with his daughters, and coffee.

Articles by Matthew Russell

Two cats beside a cozy pet bed and a close-up of a smiling dog.

Around The World In Pet Names: What Culture Reveals About Our Pets

From Tokyo to Toronto, the world’s pets are telling stories through their names. In Japan, cats are Hana and Kuma. In Brazil, dogs are Sol and Chico. And across Europe,...

Around The World In Pet Names: What Culture Reveals About Our Pets

From Tokyo to Toronto, the world’s pets are telling stories through their names. In Japan, cats are Hana and Kuma. In Brazil, dogs are Sol and Chico. And across Europe,...

Young person cuddles two cats at home; a smiling golden retriever nearby.

The Hidden Formula That Makes Pets Respond To Their Names

Ever wonder why some names just “fit” a pet instantly? It turns out the key isn’t the meaning — it’s the sound. New data reveals the phonetic patterns behind names...

The Hidden Formula That Makes Pets Respond To Their Names

Ever wonder why some names just “fit” a pet instantly? It turns out the key isn’t the meaning — it’s the sound. New data reveals the phonetic patterns behind names...

Two pets: a kitten sleeping and a dog joyfully running with a toy outdoors.

Pet Parents Are Looking To Nature For The Perfect Name

Forget pop stars — this year’s most inspiring pet names come from forests, rivers, and galaxies. Dogs named Hopi and Harvest, cats called Supernova and Lunabelle — nature is taking...

Pet Parents Are Looking To Nature For The Perfect Name

Forget pop stars — this year’s most inspiring pet names come from forests, rivers, and galaxies. Dogs named Hopi and Harvest, cats called Supernova and Lunabelle — nature is taking...

A tabby cat lounges on a platform beside a smiling dog's close-up face.

Pet Parents Are Turning Back Time With Names Straight Out Of The 90s

The past has never felt so fresh. Pet parents across the U.S. are naming their dogs and cats after vintage cars, 90s icons, and even early computers.

Pet Parents Are Turning Back Time With Names Straight Out Of The 90s

The past has never felt so fresh. Pet parents across the U.S. are naming their dogs and cats after vintage cars, 90s icons, and even early computers.

A young koala sits on a tree branch surrounded by green foliage.

New South Wales Creates Massive Sanctuary To Save 12,000 Koalas

Australia just made history for its most beloved marsupial. In New South Wales, a sweeping 476,000-hectare sanctuary—the Great Koala National Park—will protect over 12,000 koalas, 36,000 greater gliders, and more...

New South Wales Creates Massive Sanctuary To Save 12,000 Koalas

Australia just made history for its most beloved marsupial. In New South Wales, a sweeping 476,000-hectare sanctuary—the Great Koala National Park—will protect over 12,000 koalas, 36,000 greater gliders, and more...

Jaguar yawning, showcasing its distinctive spots and sharp teeth against a natural background.

The Legendary Jaguar Who Vanished Into the Wild Returns From the Shadows

For years, he haunted the mountains of Arizona—a ghost with golden eyes and a name that meant the Boss. Then he vanished without a trace. Many feared he was gone...

The Legendary Jaguar Who Vanished Into the Wild Returns From the Shadows

For years, he haunted the mountains of Arizona—a ghost with golden eyes and a name that meant the Boss. Then he vanished without a trace. Many feared he was gone...