You Make The Diagnosis: Name The Most Common Arizona Tick

Pictured below is the back of a boxer rescued by Boxer Luv in Arizona.  When I first saw the photo, I thought the dog had a thick crust of dried blood on its back.  Closer inspection revealed the truth.  These are ticks!  This is one of the most concentrated infestations I have ever seen.  What …

2011 Animal Charity Grant Winner – Spay Neuter Project of Los Angeles

Congratulations to the Spay Neuter Project of Los Angeles!  You are the winner of the 2011 Animal Charity Grant.  Pet overpopulation is a terribly difficult problem throughout America.  SNP LA is Los Angeles’s largest spay neuter provider.  They offer low cost surgeries to help the Los Angeles community prevent the suffering, hardship and too often, euthanasia …

Franciscan Blessing Of The Animals

Saint Francis is revered through time for many reasons – including his love of animals.  I have been privileged to travel to Assisi and highly recommend the trip to that tranquil and beautiful town.  Saint Francis understood the interconnectedness humans share with the planet and other creatures.  It is therefore fitting that centuries after his death, …

You Make The Diagnosis: Airedale Terrier Health Problems

This is Lotar, a well-behaved Airedale terrier.  Notice his handsome red color?  This is a rare color in Airedales.  Among his many other wonderful qualities, that makes Lotar a special dog.      Name the most common health problems observed in airedale terriers. Diagnosis: 1) Hip dysplasia2) Allergies/atopy3) Hypothyroidism4) Gastic dilation-volvulus (bloat)5) Autoimmune hemolytic anemia In my experience, these …

National Veterinary Technician Week 2011

October 9th through the 15th, is National Veterinary Technician Week.  The theme for 2011 is “Pets & Vets Need Techs!” which is absolutely true.  Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with many outstanding technicians.  Men and women who dedicate their lives to working with animals, sometimes at great personal risk.  I know several technicians who volunteer with …

You Make The Diagnosis: Name A Jaw Disease Of Cairn Terriers

Pictured below is Delta Dawn, an adorable Cairn Terrier.  This ball of fur is in constant motion, exploring the world around her.  She loves to make new friends.  After a quick sniff, she wiggles into your arms and gives lots of licks.  Cairn Terriers are prone to a bony disease that makes it difficult to …

All 4 Fun Dog Festival at Circle of Friends Humane Society

Last weekend, I was in North Dakota for the Grand Forks Women’s Show.  At the show, I learned that the Circle of Friends Humane Society is having a special event next weekend.  On October 9, 2011 they are hosting the All 4 Fun Dog Festival.  The event starts at noon with an alumni reunion i.e., dogs adopted …