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.

Diabetic Cat Feels Bad

Complications like Urinary Infections Derail Good Control Question: I have a 14-year-old cat who was diagnosed with diabetes about 3 years ago. She was completely healthy and stable; her insulin…

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Personality Change in Older Dog

Similar to a Human’s Alzheimer’s Dogs can have Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome Question: I have an older Lab cross that has undergone extreme personality changes. He is withdrawn, does not want…

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Peanuts & Pumpkin for Irregularity

A Steady Diet of Dry Food is Best Question: I’m a new dog Mom. Is it okay to give peanuts to my little dog?  She won’t eat peanut butter but…

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Glo-Sticks & Glow-Jewelry cause Misery for Pets

Have a good Christmas? Great! The carousing and cavorting has only begun. With New Years Eve right around the corner everybody who’s anybody is certain to accessorize with glo-sticks and…

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Cats and Christmas Catastrophes

Time to Cat-Proof for the Holidays Canine dietary indiscretions like chocolate, raisins, grapes, and turkey carcasses are well known. Let’s be fair; cats deserve recognition for their high risk Christmastime…

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Urine Soiling Away from Home

Anxitane can Help with Social Anxiety Question: I have a 5-year old female border terrier who is almost the perfect pet. The problem is that I cannot bring her with…

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Sudden Stabs of Pain following Amputation

The right Medications can make a Big Difference Question: Marley is a 2 year old, male tabby with his right rear leg amputated at the hip. He is getting around…

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Choke Collars Carry Risks

Head Halters are Safe and Effective Question: How do you feel about choke collars for dogs? Dr. Nichol: You ask a complex question with behavioral as well as physical implications.…

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Cat Attacks Visitors

Territorial & Fear-related Aggression is best Avoided Question: My cat Haley is 10 years old. When I have visitors she will attack them even when they are sleeping. She has…

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