Albuquerque Journal Articles

Question: I have a wonderful Boxer who is 4 years old. Cookie has had this unusual habit since she was a puppy. Before she eats she roots in the dry food, then moves her head to the side and seems to push down, then she roots again. She gets a primeval look in her eyes. At first I thought she was mentally ill but she is a sweet, fun loving, highly intelligent dog. Have you ever heard of this strange but true behavior?   Dr. Nichol: Such primitive antics might be abnormal for some dogs, but Cookie is a Boxer.…

This horrible disease of the nervous system is still with us. Vaccinate, vaccinate, vaccinate. Dear Dr. Nichol, A couple of weeks ago my wife and I adopted a beautiful Labrador Retriever cross puppy from an animal shelter. Everything was great for the first week, then he stopped eating, had pus in is eyes and nose and quit playing. Our veterinarian said that little “Brandy” has distemper and that he may die. We thought distemper was all but wiped out. How could this happen?   Dr. Nichol: Brandy’s story is really tragic and fairly common. Young puppies are the least likely…

With a few exceptions, never is best. Brushing is much healthier. Question: How often should I bathe my pets? I’ve heard everything from once a week to never.   Dr. Nichol: In almost all pets the right answer is never. No kidding. Here’s why. Unlike humans, pets don’t have sweat glands. Without them there is really no hygienic need for frequent shampooing. But pets, especially dogs, do start to swell funky without grooming. This is because, like all of us, they normally accumulate skin flakes and dead hair on their skin. But each time you use shampoo you wash away…

Call of the Wild? Great pet with an independent spirit? Dangerous & illegal? Question: I know some people who breed wolf hybrids. I’ve seen these animals and they are magnificent. The breeder tells me that when mixed with a Malamute, they are protective but loving pets. They seem a little wild to me. What do you advise?   Dr. Nichol: I have to admit that it’s kind of thrilling to think of owning a critter out of Call of the Wild. But there are some factors worth considering before you take the plunge. First, it is illegal to own a…

It’s just for looks, but for your pups it’s important. 1-3 days old is best for safety. Question: My Boxer just had a litter of the cutest babies I have ever seen. But, as you know, they were born with long tails. To make them look like Boxers we need to get their tails docked but we don’t know at what age to have it done. Our vet’s office said 1-3 days old but isn’t that awfully young?   Dr. Nichol: I am glad you asked. This is a point of confusion for many folks.   Around the age of…

More than just a nuisance, flies can cause maggots to destroy the health an older dog. Question: My old dog has flies buzzing around. What works well?   Dr. Nichol: Get a spray or lotion at a feed store that is intended for horses. Keep it away from the eyes and dilute it as recommended on the label and you’ll be fine. Flies are important because they can lead to maggots.

Size Does Matter Question: We have two 10 year old beagles who have always been “outdoor” dogs. I have built them a house framed with 2×4’s, plywood, and have insulated the floor, walls, and ceiling with pink fiberglass insulation. It even has a tabbed hinged door that they can open themselves. They have carpet and an old down sleeping bag inside. The problem is due to the cold weather; my wife thinks they should be inside. I hung a thermometer in their house and the other morning the outside temperature was 15 degrees and “dog house” temperature was 50 degrees!…

A Shared Doghouse or Indoor Separate Crates are Best Question: I have two dogs, Zara with a built-in fur coat, very thick, and Luke, typical short hair, about 35 lbs and skinny. We have two doghouses. Is this enough protection for Luke the skinny nougins? They mostly are indoors at night, however once a week we go and stay at Grandma’s. I’ve been following the idea if its about 30 and up, he’s o.k., 29 or below, or if it actually snows or rains, and we have Grandma come here. What do you think? Dr. Nichol: Whatever the temperature, Luke…