Over the years, one of the most common behavior questions my clients ask is how to keep their dogs from barking at inappropriate times. Unwanted barking can be a cause of great frustration to many pet owners (and neighbors!) so … Continue reading
Many dog owners have witnessed a scenario unfold before their eyes– a dog comes in from the backyard with dirt caked on his paws, soil smudges on his nose and a guilty look on his face. This is the image … Continue reading
As a dog owner, when I think of my dog licking it’s generally a happy memory, such as Gus greeting me with a few happy licks when I walk in the front door. But since I’m also a veterinarian, there’s … Continue reading
Dogs, by nature, are pack animals. Whether it’s a person or a fellow canine, they enjoy being around other members of their pack. Cats are much more independent and don’t always easily take to any additions in the household. It’s … Continue reading
There’s nothing better than playing with an energetic, enthusiastic cat. Kittens, in particular, are adorable when they exuberantly chase and pounce on any moving object that catches their eye. Unfortunately, as any cat owner knows, a good-natured game can quickly … Continue reading
Cats are graceful, acrobatic athletes. I’m always impressed by how effortlessly they can leap onto a high table or windowsill. Of course, when they use their skills to jump up on undesirable places, like my kitchen counter when a chicken … Continue reading
One of my jobs here at Banfield is to answer the questions that come in through the Ask-a-Vet page on Banfield.com. As you might imagine, there is a vast range of topics that pet owners ask about, but one that … Continue reading
Have you ever noticed your dog scratching at the ground after they have peed or pooped? Are they trying to cover up their poop like a cat? Are they wiping their paws? Actually, this behavior goes back to the dog’s … Continue reading
Have you ever wonder why your dog sniffs another dog, even if they’ve already met? Is this the equivalent of humans shaking hands? Actually, the sniffing ritual is more complicated than a handshake. A dog’s sense of smell is 10,000 … Continue reading
Vaccinations are one of the most common things that we do as veterinarians and are an integral part of preventive care. In many cases, vaccines are required either to help protect the community where the pet lives for diseases like … Continue reading