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.

Grapes are Dangerous

Kidney Damage can be Permanent Question: I read in the ABQ Journal that frozen grapes are a good summer snack for dogs. I’ve been giving them to my dog and…

Read More

Health Risks of Sharing Food with a Dog

Intestinal Parasites can be a Major Human Health Risk Question: Can you get sick or contract a disease from sharing things, for example a Popsicle or letting them lick your…

Read More

Older Lab Struggling on Summertime Walks

Disorder of the Larynx may be at Fault Question: How can I tell when my black lab, 12 years old, is becoming overheated on our walks?  We walk about 20…

Read More

Summer Heat

Know How to Avoid Serious Risk & What to do in an Emergency Most of us have enough sense not to leave a dog in a hot car, but our…

Read More

Lyme Disease & Back Pain

A Treatable Disease that is Missing from New Mexico Question: My dog has Lyme disease and an injured spine. Her vet has prescribed prednisone. My concern is a compromised immune…

Read More

Ehrlichiosis in Dogs can have Multiple Symptoms

Blindness may be Reversible is Treated Soon Question: Is there anything I can do to cure Ehrlichia in my dog?  She only has 1 symptom; she suddenly lost her eyesight…

Read More

Ehrlichiosis

A Potentially Fatal Disease, Most Dogs Respond Well to Treatment Question: I am the “grandmother” of a handsome poodle with a big problem. He has been diagnosed with Ehrlichia platys…

Read More

West Nile Virus

Dogs & Cats are Not at Risk Question: Do I need to protect my dogs from the West Nile virus?   Dr. Nichol: This spreading infection is nerve wracking for…

Read More

Exercising Dog with Bike Riding

A Healthy Dog Can Run Longer than a Human Can Ride Question: I was wondering what’s your take on biking with a dog. I’ve got an Aussie that I’ve been…

Read More