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

Severe flea infestations can cause blood loss anemia. Shock & death are a big risk.   Question: I have a small dog who has been passing out! She comes out…

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Yawning

Dogs can Catch them from People This is an interesting reflex we share with our pets, quite literally with our dogs. It has long been recognized that when you yawn…

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Postoperative Pain

Pets, without question, feel pain just as we do. Better pet hospitals treat & prevent pain.   Question: I have often wondered about cats and dogs and pain, especially when…

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Zoonotic Disease Transmission

Good Hygiene is Essential but other Humans are the Greatest Risk Question: When the Europeans came to America they brought diseases that we as a people only scarcely survived. Because…

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Older Dogs May Show Their Pain with Behavior Changes.

Hidden problems like joint pain, organ disease, & thyroid trouble can be found with lab testing. Proper treatment can improve life quality & life expectancy.   Question: My 14 year…

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Changing a Dog’s Name

Associate the Name with Obedience & Food Rewards Question: I’ve been perusing the available dogs at various shelters and found a gorgeous white shepherd, but his name doesn’t suit the quite…

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Dog Walking Elimination Etiquette

Avoid the Ire of Neighbors by Rewarding your Dog for Eliminating at her Territory’s Boundary Question: I used to be a professional dog sitter and when a dog lifts his…

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Weed Killers and Insecticides that are Safe for Dogs

Vinegar & Diatomaceous Earth are In; Round-Up is Out Question: I have two dogs, George & Gracie, whom I love dearly.  I am working under the assumption that there are…

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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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