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.

Fireworks phobia – What works, what to avoid

Is everybody ready for earsplitting blasts? Mick, the Nichol family Border collie will do OK; he knows his folks will be on duty. There are pure bred and mixed dogs,…

Are Thundershirts Helpful for Dogs who Fear Fireworks & Storms?

Dr. Nichol addresses a letter in which a dog owner asks about the effectiveness of “Thunder Shirts” on dogs who fear storms and loud noises.

Help this long-suffering sweet cat

Question: A year ago I emailed you about Amber, my female cat. She had an ear mite infection and severely scratched the right side of her head. The veterinarian gave…

Fireworks Freak-Out

There will be a whole lot of scared pets this weekend. It’s hard enough if they tremble and hide but some panic and escape the yard in search of safety…

A fly in your lunch? Bon Appetit!

Question:
I know that AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) has accepted a certain kind larva as an approved ingredient in pet diets. What are your thoughts about insect-based food formulations as an alternative protein source?

July 4th Aerial Bombardment – How to protect a noise phobic pet.

  Jeff Nichol, DVM, has a plan to get your pets ready for a LOUD Fourth & beating the heat of summer.

Fear & anxiety can improve – but happily ever after?

Last in a series
Jerry was already getting help with his own struggles when I met him, Charlene, and their dogs Izzy and wee Rosie and Willa.

My Dog Has Shotgun Pellets Embedded in His Skin

What are the dangers of lead shotgun pellets found in the skin of a newly adopted pet.

Teach a dog like a dog

Fourth in a series
I could only help Charlene and Jerry with the fighting among their dogs if I had their buy-in. They were both feeling pretty low. So, I shared the game plan.