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.
Last in a series Larry’s teeth and gums felt much better; modern medicine also lifted his oppressive anxiety. Curley gained confidence and was learning to relax – out from under…
Why do dogs follow commands like sit and stay if they don’t understand English? When we speak are dogs processing the words we are saying, or the tone we are…
Third in a series Problems with any organ system can impact the firing of the brain’s neurons. Oral pain is a frequent offender but arthritis, ear infections, itchy skin, and…
A dog will believe that any response from its person is an earned reinforcer. That’s why reprimands and punishments fail. To stop digging the hole even deeper you’ll need to…
Second in a series The combatants were in their corners; the cacophony of cussing and the hurling of insults had ended. Somehow, each cat was remarkably unscathed. Their well-intentioned humans,…
A dog will believe that any response from its person is an earned reinforcer. That’s why reprimands and punishments fail. To stop digging the hole even deeper you’ll need to…
First in a series Karen and Richard loved “Larry” and Curley”, a couple of fuzzy BFFs who’d shared their home with them since kittenhood eight years earlier. Everybody snuggled. It…
Dangerous cat fights can worsen fast. Some cats belong together; others don’t. Keep the peace and learn how to give them space from each other.
Pet lovers are kind and empathic folks. This is good for more than just our cats and dogs. We are healthier humans for bringing out the best in others –…