Subscriber Archive
Question:
My daughter is an avid gardener. Local cats are attracted to her vegetable garden and use it as their litter box. I am concerned about her contracting toxoplasmosis. She wears gloves.
Startled by earsplitting blasts, many otherwise stable pets will endure almost continual panic this weekend. A freaked-out dog or cat needs serious relief from fear. I’ll make it easy for you to help. Dr. Jeff Nichol is a residency-trained veterinary behaviorist in Albuquerque. He provides consultations by Zoom group and individually/in-person. Sign up for his weekly blog or post questions (drjeffnichol.com) or by US Post to 4000 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Albuq, NM 87109.
Question:
We have a neutered German shepherd/husky who is 2 years old. He never behaves aggressively with people outside our home but he will sometimes unpredictably nip people in our home without warning.
A dog who obeys fast and reliably can overcome the urge to lunge and bark and lose its mind on leash walks.
Last in a series
Most people want a peaceful life for themselves and for their pets. Sadly, some of the problems I treat are avoidable. Nothing is for sure, but if you spend the time to observe and quietly interact with the applicants for the job as your best friend, you may never need a veterinary behaviorist.
There are so many things to see and sniff outside the home territory. It’s more than just natural for dogs to investigate everything; reading the bulletin boards and posting messages is essential to who they are.
Fourth in a series
Nobody starts out with a totally clean slate. The research is clear: much of our pets’ behavior is genetically prewired, while heavily influenced by life experiences – even in youngsters. The probability of separation anxiety, noise phobia, fear, and aggression are often passed from generation to generation.
More than miserable, blistering summer days can bring dangerous hot spots and a failure of normal panting to release body heat. Keeping our dogs safe and comfortable is about more than ventilation and air conditioning. It’s not hard if you understand the problems.
Third in a series Dogs can be wonderful companions but some are demanding. Decide how much time you’ll have for play and training before the first happy barbarian leaps into your arms. Aargh! Why can’t this be simple? Have you ever heard of hassle-free marriage or effortless child raising? Me neither. Bringing out the best in a dog can be challenging. Set yourself and your excellent new pooch up for success. Pick the right one. Remember Rodney Dangerfield? Just like small dogs, he couldn‘t get no respect. People fuss about yapping and ankle biting. It’s true that some pint-sized pupsters are easily frightened. After all, everybody else is a lot bigger. The reality is that most small dogs go unnoticed because they’re relaxed and quiet. The little ones don’t eat much, their medications are cheaper, they can share an apartment with you, and exercising them is easier. A Chihuahua can…