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
Brains are certainly interesting. Parts of their anatomy, and the chemicals that conduct their complex work, can change during life. Practice makes perfect because repetition through the neural circuits upstairs makes them stronger. Neuroplasticity is the name for these gradual modifications that can transform behaviors and physical functions.
Our dogs should always come when called, whether they’re sitting and looking at us or when they’re heading off in another direction. Don’t get frustrated when ignored; train in baby…
Third in a series Compulsive disorders are a harsh reality for anybody who is saddled by a literally uncontrollable requirement to engage in repetitive, (stereotypic) behaviors. Most are related to…
Mick is only a kid. He’s not ready to be trusted to behave if we leave him loose in the house at night. A dog is a denning creature but…
Second in a series Quiz: Why did Milo chase and bite his tail? a) He was bored b) Attention-seeking c) He was compulsive d) He needed a different home Milo’s…
Digging dogs can damage a great yard. Don’t punish; it’s normal behavior. Instead, give that dirt dog their very own wonderful digging box. Make it attractive by loosening the dirt,…
First in a series Have you ever heard the expression, “Like a dog chasing its tail?” This actually happens. Milo is a handsome miniature poodle who, in his youth, was…
Dogs Need a Job – Gainful Employment. Confucius said, “A man (woman) who enjoys what they do never works a day in their life.” Our dogs can have that life.…
Question: Our longtime neighbor got a dog last year, but has not, it appears, had it trained to not bark when it goes out 4 to 6 am, and 11…