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.
Question:
My daughter is an avid gardener. Local cats are attracted to her vegetable garden and use it as their litter box. I am concerned about her contracting toxoplasmosis. She wears gloves.
Startled by earsplitting blasts, many otherwise stable pets will endure almost continual panic this weekend. A freaked-out dog or cat needs serious relief from fear. I’ll make it easy for…
Question:
We have a neutered German shepherd/husky who is 2 years old. He never behaves aggressively with people outside our home but he will sometimes unpredictably nip people in our home without warning.
A dog who obeys fast and reliably can overcome the urge to lunge and bark and lose its mind on leash walks.
Last in a series
Most people want a peaceful life for themselves and for their pets. Sadly, some of the problems I treat are avoidable. Nothing is for sure, but if you spend the time to observe and quietly interact with the applicants for the job as your best friend, you may never need a veterinary behaviorist.
There are so many things to see and sniff outside the home territory. It’s more than just natural for dogs to investigate everything; reading the bulletin boards and posting messages is essential to who they are.
Fourth in a series
Nobody starts out with a totally clean slate. The research is clear: much of our pets’ behavior is genetically prewired, while heavily influenced by life experiences – even in youngsters. The probability of separation anxiety, noise phobia, fear, and aggression are often passed from generation to generation.
More than miserable, blistering summer days can bring dangerous hot spots and a failure of normal panting to release body heat. Keeping our dogs safe and comfortable is about more than ventilation and air conditioning. It’s not hard if you understand the problems.
Third in a series Dogs can be wonderful companions but some are demanding. Decide how much time you’ll have for play and training before the first happy barbarian leaps into…