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Over my career there has been a person as an essential component of every pet I’ve treated. It has been a rare four-legged creature who has walked into my office alone, requesting treatment for diabetes, a fracture, a nasty case of diarrhea, or a serious behavior disorder. They show up with a flesh and blood human in tow, with an emotional, vested interest in their well-being. Many of these pet parents seek help early but some have to dabble in trying to solve it themselves. But that’s just water under the bridge. A veterinarian can only be truly helpful if all judgment is abandoned at the back door of the animal hospital. Actually, the dumpster is a better place for criticism. Everybody makes mistakes. We come to work to give service. Sure, people do dumb stuff. It is interesting though. Almost everybody who has ever sat down with me for…
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When well-meaning dog lovers approach or reach for your dog, does she tremble, growl, or lunge? Early puppy socialization means exposing them to gentle people and pets. It’s a great way of preventing fear-driven, defensive aggressive behavior later. Healthy behavior management should start as early as age 7 weeks. The puppies in this video are available for adoption from the Heart and Soul Animal Sanctuary in Glorieta, NM. Call (505) 757-6817.
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Reactive Adult Dogs can still Learn Luna’s life with Hope and Brian began with great promise. But it wasn’t long before her freak-out moments began to consume their lives. When well-meaning dog lovers approached or reached for her she trembled, growled, and dribbled urine. Setting Luna up for success would be the most important priority for the rest of her life. As she gradually learned to relax I explained how to teach her to divert her attention from a fear trigger. I’ll share facts on puppy socialization, an opportunity that was likely missed during this wigged-out dog’s earlier months, specifically her first 3. Proper socialization at the appropriate developmental stages really counts but there is more to it than exposure to the right creatures at the correct times. I hope you’ll find this this information helpful. You’re welcome to share this blog with any of your dog-loving friends. Each week…
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Reactive Adult Dogs can still Learn Luna’s life with Hope and Brian began with great promise. This busy couple wasn’t ready to start a human family but they loved pets. Apartment living made a small dog a good choice. They’re socially conscious people who wanted to make a difference so off they went to the local shelter in search of a pint-sized canine companion. That’s where a 6 month old Papillion-looking waif stole their hearts. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Well, relationships can be challenging, even with man’s and woman’s best friend. It wasn’t long before Luna’s freak-out moments began to consume her people’s lives. Interactions with visitors triggered her to jump back and retreat. When well-meaning dog lovers approached or reached for her she trembled, growled, and dribbled urine. Hope and Brian believed that exposure to more people would help bring out the best in their new dog so they…
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Does your cat seem lonely? Wouldn’t he love to have a friend? Well, maybe. I treat a lot of aggression between household cats. Fret not; I’ll also explain how to improve your chances of getting it right. I’m Dr. Jeff Nichol.
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Does your cat seem lonely? Wouldn’t he love to have a friend? Well, maybe. I treat a lot of aggression between household cats. Fret not; I’ll also explain how to improve your chances of getting it right. I’m Dr. Jeff Nichol.
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Cats are a unique species. They’re not 10# people in furry suits and they’re certainly not dogs with short ears. Despite those differences, or maybe because of them, their presence is essential to my wellbeing and maybe to yours too. In fact, I love cats so much I’d adopt more of them but I know how things can go wrong. Does your cat seem lonely? Maybe he’s the sweetest, most playful creature you’ve ever met. And he lives inside and he acts bored sometimes. He would love to have a friend for cuddling and a bit of good-natured rough-housing, right? Well, maybe. The potential for a fruitful feline friendship will depend on who the cats are. Their genetic programming, their accumulated life experiences, and their ages will play major roles in the drama ahead. It’s not that adding a second cat would necessarily be a bad idea but any candidates…
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Some dogs can be pushy, pesky, and demanding of attention. It’s an annoying problem, often related to anxiety. What begins as attention-seeking can end up as play-related aggression. This causes anxiety for some dogs; others may believe their person is just playing. If the dog has a lot of pent-up energy like this one she may lose control and start mouthing, nipping, or even biting.
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“I am freaked-out. I fear that you are going to hurt me, you homicidal nut job! If you push me I may perceive a threat and panic. I have a mouth full of teeth and I know how to use them!” That dog was lightning fast. Surprise could hardly describe my emotions. 51% of dog bites to children are directed to kids under age 7 years old. It makes a difference to understand how it happens so you can bring out the best in everybody. Dr. Jeff Nichol, DVM
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