Today our nation rightfully celebrates the passage twenty years ago of the Americans With Disabilities Act. When signing it into law, President H.W. Bush ushered in a new perspective on how we treat people. This anniversary led me to reflect on the magnificent animals who touch and have touched, my life. ... << MORE >>

Losing a pet is never easy.  That's why I commend Ladies' Home Journal and their sponsors for tackling this difficult, but important subject.  Below are some images from the magazine followed by a few more comments.     
 
                            

Several months ago, Jenna McCarthy interviewed me for this article.  She asked great questions designed to help people with five specific topics :  when is it appropriate to consider euthanasia, unexpected deaths, dealing with death as a family, why it's good to grieve and the importance of celebrating your pet's life.  The result is a wonderfully written article that will help you cope and say good-bye to your pet.  I am honored to be quoted on these vital issues.       

Dogs rely on panting to cool off their bodies during periods of high temperatures. Unfortunately, the brachycephalic breeds are disadvantaged because of the shape of their skulls. Their  compressed faces are adorable but result in abnormalities of the upper airways restricting air flow. ... << MORE >>

Summer is here and with the high temperatures comes hot pavement. Since most of us wear shoes, we don't think about how hot the concrete and pavement become during the day. A few seconds of contact will burn a child's feet and a dog's paws. ... << MORE >>

Unfortunately, some Bedlington Terriers will develop severe liver disease. The disease is more common in females and clinical signs develop between 2 and 4 years of age. What is the name of this disease?  ... << MORE >>

Oleander contains a cardiac glycoside that is extremely toxic. Just a few leaves will kill a dog. ... << MORE >>

I am honored and thrilled to share the news that Coated With Fur: A Vet's Life is now recognized as a Staff Pick at Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe, Arizona. ... << MORE >>

Unfortunately, the plant contains triterpenoid toxins that harm the liver. The most common signs in dogs is vomiting and diarrhea. ... << MORE >>

Unfortunately, Beagles, Bernese mountain dogs and German shorthaired pointers sometimes get a debilitating disease characterized by fever, depression, anorexia and severe neck pain. ... << MORE >>

Recently, I was asked about a dog who started nipping at people who enter its home. With a new baby in the house, the owners assumed the little watch dog is 'protecting' the new member of the family. I'm afraid this is not the case. Protective aggression is a a manifestation of fear-based aggression. ... << MORE >>