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.

Albuquerque Journal Article

Question: I recently moved to Albuquerque from Colorado. I have two yellow Labs. They have always shed hair, but it seems to have gotten worse since the move. I brush…

Dr. Nichol’s Video – Puppy Planning – Dominance is for Weenies

During Luna’s first weeks she missed out on gentle social exposures, causing her to be afraid when approached by anyone. Well-meaning human attempts to make friends triggered defensive lunging and…

Dr. Nichol’s Podcast – Why are Dogs such Animals? I’ve tried Everything!

We share strong bonds with our dogs and cats but there are significant differences between them and their people. Many pet parents get help for behavior problems early but some…

Albuquerque Journal Article – Cat Fears the Gentle Man in the House

Set Tiger up to Choose to Snuggle Question: We adopted Tiger as a kitten 3 months ago. At first he was very affectionate with me and my husband. Suddenly, when…

Dr. Nichol’s Video – Puppy Planning: Even Freaked-Out Adult Dogs can Learn

We never want a scared dog to perceive a threat. No one should ever approach, lean over, or stare at her. She’ll choose to approach when she’s not afraid. She…

Albuquerque Journal Article – Itchy Kitty with Diarrhea

Food & Airborne Allergens take their Toll Question: Pippi, my 4 year old Maine Coon cat first suffered with indolent ulcers at six months of age that has been controlled…

Dr. Nichol’s Blog – Why are Dogs such Animals? I’ve tried Everything!

Over my career there has been a person as an essential component of every pet I’ve treated. It has been a rare four-legged creature who has walked into my office…

Albuquerque Journal Article – Puppy Planning: Dominance is for Weenies

During Luna’s earliest weeks of life, long before being left at the shelter, she missed out on gentle social exposures, causing her to be afraid when approached by anyone. Well-meaning…

Dr. Nichol’s Video – Puppy Planning: Preventing Panic with Early Socialization

When well-meaning dog lovers approach or reach for your dog, does she tremble, growl, or lunge? Early puppy socialization means exposing them to gentle people and pets. It’s a great…