Last weekend, I watched the Western Regional Championships for the Purina Incredible Dog Challenge on TV. I love watching healthy dogs perform and their unabashed joy at flying through the air. During the “Big Air” segment of Dock Diving, the handler tosses a toy into a pool for their dog to retrieve. The dog that …
Author Archives: kristennelsondvm
You Make The Diagnosis: What Is Wrong With This Cat’s Mouth
The image below is a closeup of a cat’s mouth. Study the image carefully, then make your diagnosis. Is this condition painful for the cat? Diagnosis: Fractured Lower Left Canine ToothLook at the right side of the picture, next to the large upper canine tooth and you will see the remnant of the lower left …
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You Make The Diagnosis: Name This Ancient Breed of Dog
Pictured below is a beautiful sighthound named Nailah. I had the privilege of meeting her a few weeks ago. Like other members of her breed, Nailah’s long, lean body is striking. Name Nailah’s breed. Name other breeds included in the sighthound family. Diagnosis: Saluki Saluki’s are one of the oldest breeds of dog still in existence. Originally, they …
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Help Your Favorite Animal Charity
2011 is designated around the globe as “World Veterinary Year”. So in order to give back to the community, I am offering to speak for free on behalf of an animal charity (or several who partner) in any of the 50 United States. One grant will be made this year. Again, the charity can be …
Why Do Dogs And Cats Eat Grass?
Last weekend, I was asked why dogs and cats eat grass and other plant material? Since this is a common question, I decided to address this issue on the blog. After observing animal behavior for years, I believe there are two basic reasons for eating grass. First, there is a small group of dogs and cats …
Bee Season Is Here: Puppy With Swollen Face
Bee season is here! Poor little Ginger was fine when her owners left to run errands. When they returned, her face was swollen and she could barely open her eyes. They raced her into the clinic for care. Thanks to their quick action, Ginger made a complete recovery. Although we don’t know exactly what Ginger reacted to, …
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You Make The Diagnosis: Find The Animal In This Picture
Hiding amongst the fish is a rare animal that has several adaptations for life in the water. After you have located this shy creature, name the animal and two unique characteristics. Diagnosis: Mata Mata Turtle In the center of the image is a mata mata turtle clinging to the side of a large rock. Its …
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You Make The Diagnosis: Cat Paw Problem
Pictured below is a closeup of a cat’s front paw. When I first saw this cat, both of his front feet were covered in blood and dirt. After a thorough cleaning, this is what the left paw looked like. Examine the photo closely and then answer the following questions: What is wrong with this cat’s …
Pet Friendly Bookstores
As an animal lover and author, this Fourth of July I find myself thinking of two great loves – pets and books. With the summer beach reading season upon us, I thought it would be fun to celebrate bookstores who welcome animals. If you know a pet friendly bookstore, let me know. I will compile …
Information For Animal Shelters
Recently, I learned about a wonderful website devoted to animal shelters called www.animalsheltering.org. The site contains a wealth of information including how to design and set-up an animal shelter, care for the animals, solicit donations, encourage volunteers and apply for grants. There is even a section on dealing with the problem of feral cats. Most information is available in Spanish as …