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Question: My white long hair Chihuahua has body odor. We’ve always had to groom her often but after only 3 or 4 days her odor is pretty awful. She loves to snuggle and that becomes uncomfortable in a short time. We love her but can’t stand her odor. Dr. Nichol: I get it. The affection you share with your little girl is good for both of you. It not only feels great, it serves important physiologic functions. Gentle physical contact triggers the release of oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.” A lot goes on in the brain, considered the most complex organ in the body. A hug between friends or coworkers triggers oxytocin release, giving us a feel-good response. This excellent hormone, which is actually based on reproduction, promotes a sense of safety and reduces inflammation throughout the body. You and your Chihuahua have been missing this “enhanced social bonding.”…
Read MoreDangerous cat fights can worsen fast. Some cats belong together; others don’t. Keep the peace and learn how to give them space from each other.
Read MoreFirst in a series I’ve always loved pets. I remember watching Lassie and Rin Tin Tin on TV, enthralled with the loyal bond between these dogs and their children. By age 8, I just had to have one of my own. Making it happen was a long shot. My father was not an approachable man but I somehow mustered the courage to ask if I could have a puppy. He intoned, with stark clarity, that I alone would be responsible for all dog-related chores: feeding, training, exercising, and clean-up. I was committed – more than ready, although I had no idea. The stars must have aligned. To my astonishment, he consented. I was quietly delighted a couple of days later when he arrived home with a copy of the Complete Dog Book from the American Kennel Club. I opened this tome to a random page. Staring back at me was…
Read MoreQuestion: My son has a boxer, 4 years old, who is barking constantly since they moved into a new home. Already received one citation from Animal Control. They need to stop the barking! They both work and have to leave the dogs every day. Dr. Nichol- Barking is actually a normal part of canine communication but this fellow is way too talkative, indicating a quality of life problem. Frustration with a fence that prevents social interaction with other dogs is a common reason but so is anxiety from crowding in a small yard, driving a good dog #%&*@ crazy! Moving to a new house was another stress. Physical pain could be another factor. This isn’t about boredom. These nonhuman creatures have a strong requirement for interaction with others of their ilk, off-territory is best. Your son’s boxer needs canine activities. He has to do dog stuff; he won’t jump rope,…
Read MoreQuestion: We have a 10 year old cat named Mary. She has been sneezing for almost 2 years. We can find no correlation nor cause for this. We tried chlorpheniramine with no result. Mary recently had a full panel bloodwork and UA with nothing outstanding. She is in good health. Her sneezing is clear. Dr. Nichol: Poor Mary. That infernal sneezing needs to end. Her lab profile ruled out major infection; the failure of chlorpheniramine, an antihistamine, suggests that she is not allergic. This is not a rare problem. Most cats with a history of upper respiratory symptoms start with a feline herpes virus infection (FHV-1), leading to long term inflammation. The downside can be permanent changes to the “architecture” of their nasal passages, making it impossible to reach a cure. Tooth root infections are another consideration. Sadly, for a feline senior, another possibility is cancer. Chest x-rays would allow…
Read MoreCats are so sweet and cuddly. But they can damage you with their sharp teeth and claws. Don’t get angry – get cat smart.
Read MorePet lovers are kind and empathic folks. This is good for more than just our cats and dogs. We are healthier humans for bringing out the best in others – of any species. A recent article on this newspaper’s opinion page (below) recounted the overwhelming panic of a cat who was chased around the confines of its home, finally trapped in a corner, and then pushed into a carrier. After arriving at the veterinary clinic she became defensive aggressive. Every bit of this was unnecessary. I usually inject a bit of humor into my columns because it keeps them interesting but on the subject of making sport of anybody’s misery, I just can’t muster the levity. This kitty feared for her life. She could have coped just fine if she’d only been set up to succeed. I’m a well-trained veterinarian in all organ systems of non-human animals. My post-doctoral residency…
Read MoreNormal Aging? Dementia? Barking, pacing, clingy, soiling? Older dogs and cats who cry, act lost, and stare at walls are not normal. We can help but our best improvements are in early cases. Learn to notice the first signs in dogs and cats over age 10. Advanced senility can improve.
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