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.

Big Active Dogs & Their Big Active Tails

Wounded, bleeding tails are a miserable mess. Here are some answers.   Question: I have a small problem with my chocolate Labrador. Her tail at the end is hairless and…

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Hemolytic Anemia

It’s fatal in 50% of dogs who have it. It must be treated quickly & aggressively   Question: What is done to treat Hemolytic Anemia?  My 9 year old Airedale-…

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Hernias

Umbilical hernias are common in puppies. Most are insignificant. A few can be dangerous.   Question: We have a 10 week old white German Shepherd puppy and I just noticed…

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Tail Chasing

Anal Glands are a common cause of rear end discomfort. It’s usually easy to remedy.   Question: Is it an old wife’s tale or a fact that if a dog…

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Nail Trimming

Long toenails make for painful arthritic feet. Black nails are hard to trim safely. Here is the how-to.   Question: I’ve recently acquired my deceased mother’s dog. I’m taking her…

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Double Dewclaws

Surgical removal is only necessary for field dogs.   Question: We recently adopted a 6-month-old German Shepherd-mix puppy from an animal shelter.  He is “double dewclawed” on his hind legs. …

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Vaccinations for Puppies & Kittens

What do they really need & what’s unnecessary.   Question: My kids and my wife and I have decided that we want to have a pet but we can’t agree…

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Vaccine Reactions

Our best methods at disease prevention have a down side risk. Here are the facts.   Question: Last year, my standard poodle had a very severe reaction to her annual…

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Anesthetic Safety in an Older Dog

Age is not a disease. Safety is really a function of health. Complete lab work will solve the safety question.   Question: My beloved Cairn Terrier is 13 and his…

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