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.

Dr. Nichol’s Podcast – Cat Bites when Petted

As Lily headed toward the bedroom she glanced at her cat as a way of getting a read on his mood. She loved Omar but he could be impetuous. At…

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Albuquerque Journal Article – Rotund Cat Urine Soils

fat cat

Moving is Painful & Stressful Question: My fiancé and I are having a house built. I have an enormous 20# tabby male cat named Tortellini. Should I kennel him for…

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Dr. Nichol’s Blog – Cat Bites when Petted

cat bites when petted

Lily had just finished putting away her groceries when she walked past Omar, her 2 year old Ragdoll cat. This good lady relied on her fuzzy house mate for more…

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Albuquerque Journal Article – Debarking to End Barking?

barking dog

Improve Life to End Complaining Question: Do you do debarking or bark softening? I have about a 20# Sheltie. Dr. Nichol: I’ve considered debarking a few people (politicians, mostly) but…

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Albuquerque Journal Article

Question: I recently moved to Albuquerque from Colorado. I have two yellow Labs. They have always shed hair, but it seems to have gotten worse since the move. I brush…

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Dr. Nichol’s Video – Puppy Planning – Dominance is for Weenies

During Luna’s first weeks she missed out on gentle social exposures, causing her to be afraid when approached by anyone. Well-meaning human attempts to make friends triggered defensive lunging and…

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Dr. Nichol’s Podcast – Why are Dogs such Animals? I’ve tried Everything!

We share strong bonds with our dogs and cats but there are significant differences between them and their people. Many pet parents get help for behavior problems early but some…

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Albuquerque Journal Article – Cat Fears the Gentle Man in the House

frightened cat

Set Tiger up to Choose to Snuggle Question: We adopted Tiger as a kitten 3 months ago. At first he was very affectionate with me and my husband. Suddenly, when…

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Dr. Nichol’s Video – Puppy Planning: Even Freaked-Out Adult Dogs can Learn

We never want a scared dog to perceive a threat. No one should ever approach, lean over, or stare at her. She’ll choose to approach when she’s not afraid. She…

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