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.

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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Dry Eye in an Elderly Cat

Effective Treatment will Eliminate Pain & Preserve Eyesight Question: My elderly cat has red rimmed crusty eyes. What causes this and how do I treat?   Dr. Nichol: Your kitty…

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High Blood Calcium & Back Pain

Many Possible Causes but Cancer Tops the List Question: Our 12 year old Lab/Border Collie has had back pain for 2 years and is very weak in the back legs.…

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Blind Older Dog Circling, Confused, & Becoming Lost

Most Dogs Adjust well to Blindness. Brain Aging Changes are More Likely & Treatable Question: We have a 14 year-old, female Japanese Chin who is blind. Sometimes she complains and…

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ProHeart 6 Recall

Adverse Reactions Plagued ProHeart but other Good Preventatives Remain Question: I read that ProHeart 6 had been recalled.  My poodle was on this medication.  What can be used in its…

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