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.

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…

Read More

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…

Read More

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…

Read More

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.…

Read More

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…

Read More

Aggression toward other Dogs On-Leash

Ignore Bad Behavior & Teach Focus on Leader Question: I have a 3 year old female border collie. We have stopped going for walks because of her atrocious behavior, which…

Read More

Feline Bladder Disease and Diet

The Right Food Matters but a Cat must Eat it. Question: My 14 year old cat has had increased urination. The vet gave antibiotics, ruled out diabetes, and prescribed c/d…

Read More

Knee Pain from Dislocating Kneecaps (luxating patellas)

Surgery plus Stem Cells can make a Huge Difference Question: I have a 3 year old cockapoo and she was trying to jump and did something to her leg. She…

Read More

Cat Defecates outside Litter Pan

Set Him Up to Succeed; Avoid Punishment Question: My husband and I got a shelter cat about 6 weeks ago. He is one and a half years old and neutered.…

Read More