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.

Biting – Can You Ever Trust Again?

Scared dog

First in a series Folks like you and I are tethered to our pets by an emotional commitment to their well-being. If they have symptoms from any body part, including…

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My Cat Defecates While Running Away from My Other Cat

cat

A cat parent is concerned about her cat who is fearful of using the litter box.  

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Rock Eating – Not a Healthy Diet

goat

Question: I am worried that my inside Chihuahuas and my Pug/Pekingese dogs eat rocks and if the rocks will hurt them? How can I stop them from eating the rocks?…

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Tricks instead of Exercise? A Good Trade-Off?

Heart and Soul Animal Sanctuary

Question: As a 76 year old single woman I have adopted a wonderful sheltie/shepherd mix female, very active 15 week old puppy. Arthritis and age have begun to make 2…

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Cat Parent as Mouse – Don’t Fight Nature

angry cat

Question: Russ, neutered, age 2 years, was rescued with his mum and siblings. I adopted him at 14 weeks. He was crazier than any kitten I’ve ever known. His aggression…

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Puppy House Training – In 1 Day? Really?

housetraining

Housetraining can feel like such a challenge that many people just give up and mop up. You can get so completely flummoxed and frustrated that you lose their patience. You…

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Lonely Cat Needs to Get a Life

scared cat

Question: My 2 year old cat has separation anxiety. When he sees me getting dressed he starts crying and follows me, holding my leg, and when I get to the…

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Choosing The Greatest Puppy For Your Life

puppies

Have you ever wanted to pick the puppy who best fit your life? I’ll take you to Animal Humane NM and show you how it’s done.

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Ankle Biter Redemption

play ball

Challenge Your Knowledge of Canine Behavior
Multiple choice: Dogs adopted as adults, who are aggressive toward the man in the home: (a) Were previously mistreated by a male (b) Are jealous, wanting the woman all to themselves (c) Are frightened by the macho, but gentle dude who guzzles battery acid instead of coffee in the morning (d) Are trying to be dominant (e) Have an Oedipus complex.

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