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.

Dr. Nichol’s Blog – Cars, Cats, & Furry Suits

Petting cat head

Do you know anybody whose adult life could have been easier and a whole lot happier if they’d been treated better as a child? Not only do I know people…

Read More

Albuquerque Journal Article – Imposters and Monsters and Chocolate, Oh My!

Scared Dog

Halloween can be Scary and Dangerous The idea of Halloween is rather appealing. It’s fully legal and socially acceptable to assume a different identity. If you are underage you can…

Read More

Podcast – Fear and Anxiety

Dogs are man’s and woman’s best friends but there are differences. Unlike most of us they walk on all 4s and they’re somewhat hairier. But like us they’re genetically programmed…

Read More

Albuquerque Journal Article – To neuter or not to neuter?

golden retriever puppy

Hey – wasn’t that settled a long time ago? The oversupply of pets hasn’t gone away. The behavioral benefits of spaying and neutering are clear. Roaming, urine marking/spraying, and aggression…

Read More

Albuquerque Journal Article – Cat Snarls & Swats

Fear can be Learned just Once Question: New Mexico Animal Friends has a spayed female foster cat, Twyla, a young tortoiseshell shorthair, who has become difficult at adoption clinics. We…

Read More

Dr. Nichol’s Podcast – Cat Bites when Petted

As Lily headed toward the bedroom she glanced at her cat as a way of getting a read on his mood. She loved Omar but he could be impetuous. At…

Read More

Albuquerque Journal Article – Save your pup from balloon botheration

hot air balloon

Balloons Fiesta is a great spectacle for us, but it’s not much of a wingding for pets who freak-out from those cosmic monsters leering and looming over them. Even the…

Read More

Dr. Nichol’s Blog – Fear and Anxiety

I was just 8 years old when I made my first trip to the animal hospital with my new puppy. I felt inspired by the doctor who examined him. He…

Read More

Albuquerque Journal Article – Blind Senior Cat

blind cat

Quality of Life is Central Question: My cat Kayla just turned 23 years old and suddenly went blind. When do I know that it’s too much for her to handle…

Read More