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.

Media – Night Terrors – Electric Shock

golden retriever

PTSD is Treatable Question: We have a golden retriever that was given to us when he was 1 1/2 years old. In his previous life, he was taken to two…

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Dr. Nichol’s Video – Dog on Furniture – Get Off!

Dogs who are told to get off the furniture repeat their crimes when the boss is out of sight. Consistency and kindness matter.

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Media – Clipping Male Dogs

dog with tie

Neutering is Best Question: Recently a neighbor got a dog from a shelter and “Rowdy” was a what ‘appeared’ to be an intact male. But the new owner said that…

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Dr. Nichol’s Video – Mama’s Empathic Example

Kindness can be found everywhere from chimpanzees to dog, cats, and people.

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Media – Hermione has fatty liver

calico cat

Question: Hermione, our 11 year old long haired calico, was diagnosed with hepatic lipidosis. She received a month of treatment per our veterinarian. We then made a tough decision to…

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Dr. Nichol’s Video – Cats ‘n Kids

Snuggle Bunnies? Predators? If they’re close to losing impulse control they might actually communicate. Hissing, growling, spitting, ears back, pupils dilated – Cats in this mindset need space. Keep all…

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Dr. Nichol’s Video – Dog Safe with Kids? Have Fun – Be Watchful

Most dogs are happy to come when called but some can feel afraid. A child can understand empathy and respect for personal boundaries while playing nicely. We all feel afraid…

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Media – Rattlesnake Bites

rattlesnake

Teach Avoidance without Electric Shock Question: Do you have information on humane rattlesnake “proofing” techniques for dogs? It seems to me that keeping your dog on leash would be a…

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Dr. Nichol’s Video – Pets & Kids Make it Safe – Keep it Fun

Make it Safe – Keep it Fun. Did you ever do dumb things when you were a kid? I never did. Well, ah yes, actually I did. I have two…

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