Are You Sure You Want A Dog Like Marley?

John Grogan described his dog Marley as the World’s Worst Dog.  The truth is that Marley was not an innately bad dog, just one with a superior zest for life.  In my clinical work with sporting dogs, (Breeds used for hunting such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and German Short-haired Pointers) I have noticed there are two …

Ear Cropping And Tail Docking In Dogs

On occasion, I have been critical of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).  So it is appropriate that I now commend them for taking the proper ethical stand.  In November 2008, the AVMA Executive Board approved the following revision to AVMA policy. “The AVMA opposes ear cropping and tail docking of dogs when done solely for cosmetic …

You Make The Diagnosis: Chihuahua Congenital Defects

During their first examination, I check puppies for congenital defects.  What is the most common congenital defect observed in Chihuahuas?  Will it correct over time?  Is it associated with any other medical problems?                                                                                                                                   Answer:  Open Fontanelle (Soft Spot) Open fontanelle’s occur when the bones of the skull fail to meet and fuse.  I usually find them on the …

Billy The Elephant

Elephants are highly social creatures who live in complex family groups.  In an attempt to meet their emotional needs, the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) states the following in their Standards for Elephant Care and Management:     “Institutions should strive to hold no less than three female elephants whenever possible. . . . Adult males (six …