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.

Vaccinations for Puppies & Kittens

What do they really need & what’s unnecessary. Question: My kids and my wife and I have decided that we want to have a pet but we can’t agree on…

Exercise

Health means more than just ‘Start out slowly, then taper off’. Question: I have a beautiful 8-month-old Bichon Frise puppy who loves to go running with me.  I started her…

Basset Hounds

Why that funky body style? Are they all loveable?   Question: What are basset hounds good for?   Dr. Nichol: That depends on who’s asking and why. Originally Bassets were…

Training Collars & Head Halters

There are several useful tools; each has its place. All are safe if used properly.   Question: Do you know of any health problems related to either prong/pinch collars or…

Pets & Children: Teaching Responsibility

Carefully consider the maturity of the primary caretaker before adding a new pet to your home.   Question: I’m thinking that a pet is a good way to teach responsibility…

Introducing a New Dog to an Established Group of Cats

There is a good method to taking it slow & careful. A gentle dog should fit in well-eventually.   Question: Five days ago I got a young dog. I already…

Puppy Training Class

Even small breed dogs need good manners. Taking a puppy to school gets you both trained-and your lives together get better.   Question: We just got a brand new puppy…

Aging Dogs-Knowing when the Time for Euthanasia is Right

Your Veterinarian should be there for Guidance & Support Question: I have a 17 year old cocker terrier. She now has multiple problems and is on many meds. She is…

Grieving Pet Loss

Other family dogs share the loss & the grief. Question: A few weeks ago I had to put down Sam, one of my four dogs, due to liver failure. The…