Weekly article archive

The following questions and answers have appeared in my weekly column in the Albuquerque Journal since July, 1996. Each week a new one is added. You'll find information on the physical and behavioral maladies of dogs and cats and a few other species too. I invite you to use the search feature to find the specific answer that you and your pet need.

Blood Transfusions

No Need for Concern about the Use of Jugular Veins Question: My 95 pound sheepdog mix has been a blood donor for the past year.  I was happy to allow…

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Cat Missing Jumps onto Bed

Cataracts or Lens Instability are likely causes Question: Our cat, Stevie, is 12 years old. In the last few months she seems to have a hard time jumping up on…

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Warm vs. Cold Noses

Nose Temperature is Never Reliable; a Thermometer is Much Better Question: Is a cold nose an indicator of health in a cat (like a dog) or is it OK if…

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Dry Eye (KCS) in a Young Dog

Blindness can Result but it Can be Treated Question: We adopted the cutest little dog from a shelter. She was a mess-matted, fleas and smelly. The vet said she was…

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Fainting German Shepherd

Heart Disease, the most Likely Cause, may Result in Sudden Death Question: Do dogs faint?  Yesterday I noticed my 6 year old female German Shepherd appear to faint twice.  We…

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Eye Discharge in a Sick Kitten

Feline Herpes can Cause Severe Eye Disease & Death Question: We have recently taken home 3 kittens to nurse them back to health. Two of them are healthy, but one…

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Does Allowing a Dog to Have a Litter Make a Better Dog?

Numerous Health Risks plus Overpopulation Make Spaying the Right Choice Question: A friend recently got a lab X puppy.  When I asked if he was going to spay her –…

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Eyelid Masses on a Middle Aged Dog

Small Tumors Should be Removed Question: I am a widowed senior citizen. I have a 10 year old miniature poodle. This little dog has lost most of her eyesight due…

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What Does it Take to Become an Animal Behaviorist?

There are a Few Routes; All take Education Question: How does a person become an animal behaviorist? Does one need to go through veterinary college or something more like an…

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