Dog Health and Care

Dogs have a lot in common with their humans. They’re mammals, they’re highly social, and they – unfortunately – share most major diseases with us, from diabetes to cancer. On …

Most of us will have at least one cold or flu this year. For those of us that spend a lot of time indoors, in crowded spaces, especially around children, …

As I get closer to my upcoming eye surgery, I’ve been thinking more about my dog’s eyesight too. The thing is, I didn’t know that I had strabismus until I …

This spring, Matilda and Cow turned 9 years old. This is a definitive time when both dogs are, without a doubt, seniors. Another reason this age is a turning point …

Dogs rely on us to help them stay healthy. And it can be tough because their needs are so different than ours – and yet, so similar too. Like humans, …

After puppyhood, when your dog has had their core vaccines and isn’t suffering from any chronic health issues, it’s tempting to skip their annual wellness visits. In times when our …

Most dogs love food, and are highly motivated by treats, but some are more food-obsessed than others. Matilda, for instance, has a one-track mind. She’ll do anything for a crumb, …

When I first saw headlines going around about a canine cancer that’s passed through sniffing one another’s private parts, I was alarmed. My dogs, like all dogs, love sniffing other …

I think a lot of my weirdness is coming out in this blog lately, and I’m thrilled about it. I’ve learned so much about dogs in the past seven years …

I just came back from dropping Cow off at the vet for her first ever dental appointment. I couldn’t help but feel a bit misty as the tech took her …

Last week, I noticed that the “pinky” side nail on Matilda’s left paw was bent at an outwards-turning 90 degree angle. I hadn’t seen any signs of pain like limping …

Dog moms and dads, your life is about to get so much easier. Check out these tips I’ve been using to overcome everything from daily challenges to minor inconveniences that …

They say the cutest mouths are the smelliest. Well, at least, I say that. Our tiny dogs are cursed with teeth that are crowded together and easily collect plaque and …

Most people realize that chocolate is toxic to dogs. But dogs do not realize that chocolate is toxic to dogs. So when your dog sneaks a bite of your cookie …

When I spotted a flea crawling around on Matilda’s belly, I knew to act fast. I knew what to do because we’ve had fleas before. Sometimes I share things on …

Dogs have a much shorter, faster digestive tract than humans. That’s why they tend to poop more often than people, and you’ll often spot undigested pieces of food in their …

Does your stomach drop when you notice that your dog’s claws have grown into gargoyle talons yet again? I don’t think anyone looks forward to nail time, but it’s something …

It’s heartbreaking to keep trying new foods to help your “allergy dog,” only for her to continue being itchy, gassy, sick, and miserable. Yet, so many of us watch our …

Each day, more cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in humans are being reported, and it’s hard to distinguish fact from fiction, precaution from overcaution, and to know what you actually need …

Chews are an effective way to clean your dog’s teeth, and your dog will love the idea of “bonus food” between meals. Personally, I do not give my dogs most …

You probably already know that you should be brushing your dog’s teeth… but how do you accomplish that when she hates letting you do it? Well, remember when you were …

If you’re reading this, your dog’s teeth almost certainly need more attention. About 80% of dogs over age 3 have some signs of dental disease. And yet, only a small …

Brr! I’ve just started to notice Matilda and Cow shivering in the morning, so we’ve started to put those cozy sweaters on in the AM. Matilda is a master at …

Today I saw a Facebook post on which someone was talking about their unvaccinated puppy. Someone responded, “There’s no need for the rabies shot. Just let your puppy run around …

You may have seen a mama dog or a wild animal pick up their babies by the scruff of their necks. How cute! Your dog’s mom certainly used to carry …

Ideally, we always have enough time to prepare our dogs for new, scary things. But that’s not always possible. For example, it’d be nice if everyone were able to buy …

Uh oh. I was seriously considering scrapping this blog post entirely. I normally veer away from negativity. I don’t want to make anyone feel bad, especially if they’re doing their …

Tiny dogs are especially prone to side effects from conventional medications. That’s why it was such a big win for Chihuahuas when CBD oil products became legal almost everywhere. Finally, …

Are reddish stains under your dog’s eyes making her look sick and depressed? If you have a small dog with light-colored fur, tear stains are inevitable. However, there are some …

I’m a total wuss when it comes to the cold – and so are Matilda and Cow, they were born in California and have very sparse, short coats.  So, I …